Run to Empower

Run to Empower is an event dedicated to supporting and advancing women’s running in Canada. By showcasing exceptional local talent, it features a women’s-only performance race, an inclusive open 5K for all athletes, and the Little Warriors Kids 1K. 

This is a wonderful chance for everyone to come together in celebration of women’s running, while also inspiring the next generation by introducing young runners to strong, empowered role models.

 

Included in your registration:

  • A commemorative 2025 finisher medal (unless opting for the Green Bib)
  • A personalized race bib
  • Professional race timing
  • Free downloadable race photos

 

Optional add-ons to commemorate your race:

  • Run to Empower 2025 shirt 
  • iTab ribbon hanger 

 

EVENT DETAILS

Races: 5km and 1km

Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025

Start times:

  • Little Warriors Kids 1k: 8:30 am
  • Ottawa’s Fastest Women 5K 9:00 am
  • Run to Empower open 5K (including a stroller wave): 9:45 am

Location: Central Experimental Farm

 

FEES

  • 5K: $61.86 + HST 
  • 5K youth: $28.13 + HST
  • Little Warriors 1K: $16.88 + HST

 

ROUTE

 

Ottawa’s Fastest Women 5K

A performance race for any persons who identify as female 12+ , includes prizing for the following categories: top seven, Masters(40+), and U19. Must have run under 20:00 for the 5K (or an equivalent result) since January 1, 2024 (you will be prompted to upload your time and race during registration). Athletes can check the equivalency of their times for the 10K, half, full or other event here. **Those who’ve opted to go green will have a donation made in lieu of receiving a medal.

Athletes who have run 18:30 or faster for the 5K will receive free entry into the event, those from 18:30-20:00 shall pay an entry fee of $20.
Elite athlete support such as travel, accommodation and per diem, will be at the discretion of the elite athlete coordinator.

Event Record Bonus
If any runner in the performance field breaks the existing event record, they will receive a bonus of $500. Rachel Hannah set the course record of 15:57.5 in 2014.

Canadian 5K Road Race Record Bonus
If any runner in the performance field breaks the existing Canadian 5K road race record, they will win a bonus of $2,000. Emilie Mondor set the record at 15:16 in 2004.

Prizing

Prizing for Ottawa’s Fastest Women top seven

1 $1,500.00
2 $1,200.00
3 $900.00
4 $600.00
5 $400.00
6 $250.00
7 $150.00

Prizing for Ottawa’s Fastest Women Masters (40 years +)

1 $300.00
2 $200.00
3 $100.00

Winner of Ottawa’s Fastest Women U19 category will be awarded with a Garmin smartwatch.

If you have any questions regarding Ottawa’s Fastest Women, please email the Elite Coordinator, Stephen Andersen.

RUN TO EMPOWER OPEN 5K

Athletes of all genders are welcome. New for 2025, runners racing with strollers will kick off the open 5K by being the first wave to cross the start line of our event. 

Registration includes medal**, timing, free downloadable race photos and post-race snacks. Shirts are available for purchase during registration.

**Those who’ve opted to go green will have a donation made in lieu of receiving a medal.

Little Warriors Kids 1K 

Athletes 12 years and under, all genders welcome.

 

ACCESSIBILITY

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to Danielle Avery.

 

ONLINE REGISTRATION DEADLINE

Online registration closes Monday, April 28, 2025, 11:59pm.

 

RACE KIT PICK UP

 

GREEN BIB OPTION

The Green Bib does not include a medal, instead a portion of your registration fee will be donated to the event charity partner.

 

RUN OTTAWA MEMBERSHIP

You can now buy an RO membership seamlessly in-registration when signing up for a Run Ottawa event! As a member, you’ll enjoy exclusive benefits like 10% off all Run Ottawa races and discounts with partner services, enhancing your running experience! Dual, youth and family options now available! Find out more.

*Please note event details are subject to change. Any questions please email questions@runottawa.ca.