2026 Pick & Shovel Showdown

2026 Pick & Shovel Showdown

Welcome to the 4th edition of The Pick & Shovel Showdown at the McDonald Sports Park in Waverley, Nova Scotia. This race features a unique 8-hour endurance format where participants can run as long as they can or want to, with no time limit per lap. The event starts with a 10km (2-Lap) race at 12pm, after which competitors can continue on approximately 6km laps until 7:30pm (cutoff to start a lap). The last lap must be finished by 8pm.

The course is described as very runnable with great footing, expected to be packed down even in January. Participants should be prepared for winter conditions. The Cheema Canoe Club will serve as the start/finish and warmup area, offering hot and cold food/beverages.

The race will proceed in Rain/Sleet/Snow, with exceptions only for city-wide shutdowns. Prizing will be awarded to podium finishers, top Over 50 competitors (male and female), and through door prizes. A $500 gift card is offered for new divisional course records (minimum 15 laps / 88.4km with the fastest 10K time).

Important Notes:

• No refunds on this event.
• Registration transfers to another person are possible up to January 16th at noon via Race Roster for a fee.
• Merchandise order cutoff is December 13th at 5pm.

Ticket Information:

• 10km then keep running/socializing all day: $67.72 (Early Bird Pricing: Oct 17 – Oct 31)
• Procrastination Pricing: $78.63 (Nov 1 – Jan 15)
• Volunteer: Free (Oct 17 - Jan 15)