The Don McMaster Memorial 12 Mile Creek Trail Half Marathon & 7k begins at 2 Lockhart Drive in St. Catharines, Ontario, at 9:00 AM EDT. This established trail event, now in its 38th year, offers a 21.1 km half marathon, a walking division on the same course, and a 7 km race for those seeking a challenging trail section. Field sizes are limited to 175 for the half marathon and 100 for the 7 km; both distances have sold out rapidly in past years.
The half marathon route winds through the historic first Welland Canal area and the 12 Mile Creek Trail. Participants begin on the Merritt Trail towards downtown St. Catharines, loop back towards the trails behind Brock University, ascend Hydro Hill on the Niagara Escarpment, and then descend to the finish. The 7 km race utilizes the latter portion of the half marathon course, including Hydro Hill, making it a short but demanding option. Walkers complete the entire half marathon course, starting 90 minutes prior to the runners. The event benefits the Niagara Rankin Cancer Run, having previously attracted 268 participants and raised funds for the charity.