FAQ Group: Course & Post Race

Marathon Photos is the official photographer for the Bay Race. Smile when you see our photographers in the bright yellow vests and make sure your bib number is visible. View and order your photos here.

Finisher medals will be distributed to each participant upon completion of their in-person event. This will take place inside FirstOntario Centre after you finish the race. Relay finisher medals for all members of the team will be given to the last leg of the relay team.

Age Group Award Certificates will be distributed to the top three individuals in their age and gender category. The 30K categories are Female/Male runners 15yrs and over — 5 year increments up to 75+. Age Group Award Certificates will be mailed out to the Top 3 finishers in their category for the 5K race starting from 9 and under up to 75+ years old in 5 year increments.

Various groups and individuals are along the course, some playing music, some in costumes to entertain as well as encourage the runners every year.

• 30K and first leg of the relays start on York Blvd just west of Bay St.
• 5k starts on Bay St. just south of York Blvd.

Yes, each kilometre will be marked along the route.

There are port-a-potties located approximately every 5K along the 30K course.

Water will be at the 7K, 11K, 14K, 21K, and 25K marks and at the Finish.
XACT Cherry Berry Electrolyte Drink also at 7K, 11K, 14K, 21K, and 25K
XACT Energy Fruit Bars at 11K & 21K.
Portable toilets placed approximately every 5K.

The first 10k is fairly flat in the industrial part of Hamilton. Remember not too go out too fast! The middle part of the Around the Bay Road Race is often windy as you are running through the Beach strip near the water. The last 10k includes rolling hills through scenic North Shore Blvd.

The race begins on York Blvd west of Bay St. The race proceeds east on York Blvd then turns left, (north) onto James St. N. Runners run north on James St. N., east on Guise St, east on Dock Service Rd, south on Ferguson Ave. N, then east onto Burlington St.

Runners proceed east on Burlington using the overpasses to the Woodward Ave. on ramp.

Runners exit north onto Woodward Ave. and then turn right onto the Beach Strip.

After crossing the Canal lift bridge the race turns onto Eastport Drive to Northshore Blvd. The race turns west bound onto the rolling hills of Northshore Blvd., and then west onto Plains Rd. Runners continue on Plains Rd. to Spring Gardens Rd. up the Valley Inn Rd Hill, entering Hamilton on York Blvd. and finish into FirstOntario Centre at York Blvd. and Bay Sts.