Vancouver Island Race Series – Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: March 21, 2026

General Information

What is the Vancouver Island Race Series?

The Vancouver Island Race Series is a collection of road races held annually across Vancouver Island. They typically from January through April. The series includes distances ranging from 5K to the half-marathon. Participants can compete in individual races or accumulate points across multiple events for overall and age group standings. Participants may register for a season pass encompassing all eight races or any number of single races. If racing five or more times, a season pass is the best value.

How many races are in the series?

The series typically includes eight races each year. Events are hosted in different communities across Vancouver Island. And offer a mix of flat, fast courses and more challenging routes.

Do I have to run all the races?

No. You may register for and run any individual race. However, runners who complete a minimum number of races are eligible for series standings and awards.

Registration and entries

How do I register for a race?

Registration is completed online through the official platform (typically Race Roster). Each race has its own registration page, deadlines, and entry limits. You can go to the “Races” page and click on any of the eight. There will be a price reduction available at the Royal Victoria Marathon Expo, set at a capacity of 100. Then registration for season passes opens again on Dec. 1. Single race entry registration opens on Nov. 12.

Do races sell out?

Some do. The Cobble Hill 10K, Bazan Bay 5K and Comox Valley RV Half Marathon regularly reach capacity before race day. Early registration is recommended.

Can I transfer my race entry?

No. Entry transfers are not transferable to another runner, race or year. Selling a race bib will mean automatic disqualification.

Can I defer my entry to another race or to next year?

No.

Is there a waitlist if a race sells out?

Cobble Hill 10K and Bazan Bay 5K offer wait lists, Comox Valley RV Half Marathon does not.

Race day information

What time do races start?

Start times are 11:00 AM except for the Harriers’ Pioneer 8K, which starts at 11:30 AM. Confirm details on the specific race page.

When should I arrive before my race?

Plan to arrive at least 45 to 90 minutes before the start. This allows time for parking, bib pickup if required, and warm-up.

Are there aid stations on the course?

Yes. Aid stations are provided on most courses, particularly for 10K and half-marathon events. Specific locations vary by race.

Are the courses certified?

All courses in the series are officially measured and certified. The only exception is the Hatley Castle 8K. It is however measured accurately by a Certified World Athletics A course measurer. Certification status is available where needed.

Results and series scoring

How are series standings calculated?

The series uses a points-based system that ranks performances relative to other participants’ finish positions in each race. Points are accumulated across races, with final standings determined at the end of the series. See all the details here.

Do I need to complete a minimum number of races to qualify?

Yes. A minimum number of finishes is required to be eligible for series awards. The exact requirement is outlined in the official series rules each season.

Where can I find race results?

Results are posted online shortly after each race. Links are available on the website and through the registration platform. This website hosts an exclusive and unique set of results. The results cover the entirety of an athlete’s history with the series.

Awards and recognition

Are there age group awards?

Yes. Awards are presented for age group categories as well as overall series standings.

Are there awards for individual races?

All races offer their own awards in addition to the overall series recognition. Details vary by event.

Policies and eligibility

Can I walk the races?

Walkers are welcome at all events. Some races may have course time limits and an early start option.

Are strollers or dogs allowed?

No. Dogs and strollers or any transportation other than walking or running is not permitted. Only dogs who assist participants in the case of being visually impaired may help, as long as they start at the very back of each field.

What is the refund policy?

There are no refunds, transfers to other races, or transfers to other runners.

Weather and safety

Do races take place in bad weather?

Yes. Races are typically held rain or shine. Participants should be prepared for variable winter and early spring conditions on Vancouver Island. However, due to snow limiting medical services, traffic control and volunteers’ mobility, we postponed races that experience snow.

What happens if a race is cancelled?

If a race must be cancelled due to extreme conditions or safety concerns, updates will be communicated via the website and email. Policies regarding credits or transfers vary by event. We typically aim to postpone only.

Community and volunteering

How can I volunteer?

Volunteer opportunities are available for all races, including course marshalling, aid stations, and registration. Information is provided on the website. You may submit a volunteer form here.

Who organizes the series?

The Vancouver Island Race Series is organized through a collaboration of local running clubs and community groups across Vancouver Island. Run Van Isle, formerly known as Vancouver Island Runners’ Association, owns the series; each of the races is organized by an island-based club.

In greater detail

Fast courses for personal best results

Which of the eight courses are considered fast and in which order?

  • The Bazan Bay 5K is the fastest course. It may be the fastest 5K road course in Canada or even North America. It offers a very gentle uphill for the first 2.5 kms, which is just barely noticeable, then there is a 180-degree turnaround and the perfect 2.5K second half back to the beginning.
  • It is debatable which is faster, the Harriers’ Pioneer 8K or the Cobble Hill 10K. They are both fast.
  • The Sooke 10K, McLean Mill 10K, Bastion 12K and Comox Valley RV Half Marathon are of similar quality in terms of “speed” or “fast courses, with the Comox race leading the pack a little.
  • The Hatley Castle 8K is not really a road race, but half road, half trail with a small and very sharp incline and 2 and 3K. People run the Hatley Castle 8K for its beauty, including views of downtown Victoria, Olympic Mountain Range, Hatley Castle, the ocean and the portions that run on trail through the forest.

Links to races

Unable to show up?

That is perfectly understandable. Life gets in the way, injuries and sicknesses happen. You do not even need to tell us that you are not going to show up. Not that we don’t care, we will find out when your name does not appear in the results. No need to contact us.