Survivorfest Running Event

About Survivorfest Running Event

Survivorfest Running Event is hosted on Treaty Six Territory and the homeland of the Métis Nation of Alberta, Regions Two and Four, now known as Sherwood Park, Alberta. We are honoured to host an inclusive, world-class event on land that carries the footsteps of Cree, Métis, Blackfoot, and many other Nations who have been here for thousands of years.

Survivorfest is an annual flat-and-fast 6-hour, 12-hour, and 24-hour timed race sanctioned by the International Association of Ultrarunners (IAU). Held every second weekend in June, the event brings together athletes from across Canada and around the world.

Our Purpose
Our motto, “A Celebration of Strength, Sacrifice and Survival,” reflects the shared journey of athletes and survivors. Whether someone has been personally affected by sexual violence or is standing in support of others, Survivorfest creates a meaningful, connected, and empowering environment. All profits are donated to our local sexual assault centre, Saffron Centre, supporting school programs that educate children about preventing sexual violence. Since 2019, we have donated over $37,000.

Choose Your Loop

Since 2024, both course options — Loop A (400 m track) and Loop B (1.69 km road/track mix) — have been certified as IAU Bronze Label events. We offer equal podium spots and prizing across all three gender categories.

• Loop A – 400 m Track (IAU Track Bronze Label)
  • Run on the four inside lanes of the Strathcona Athletic Park track
  • Capped at 70 athletes
  • Ideal for athletes targeting National Team standards, records, and precise pacing
• Loop B – 1.69 km Road/Track Loop (IAU Road Bronze Label)
  • Mixed terrain: track, pavement, and concrete
  • Uses the three outer lanes of the track
  • Great for athletes who want more variety, especially relay teams

Course Features

• Both loops are flat, fast, and low elevation
• Direction changes at 1 PM, 5 PM, 9 PM, 1 AM, and 5 AM
• Fully stocked aid station operating for the full 24 hours with hot and cold food and beverages
• Over 18 hours of music for athletes, volunteers, and spectators
• Tradition: “Final Countdown” by Europe plays at 8:55 AM Sunday

Community, Inclusion & Partnerships

We are proud to be Trail Sisters Approved, ensuring an inclusive, welcoming environment for women and gender-diverse athletes. Since 2023, we have offered three gender categories. We accept every athlete’s declared gender at face value — no documentation required — and support inclusive pronoun options. UltraSignup now allows athletes to register under a Non-Binary category, and we encourage participants to update their UltraSignup profiles accordingly.

Athlete Swag

Each athlete (except Friday kids) receives a Lululemon Survivorfest Slate/White shirt. 24-Hour athletes also get a zippered hoodie. Opting out of your shirt donates $50 to the Saffron Centre. 100+ miles = Survivorfest Belt Buckle.

Medals

GOLD (24-Hr) • SILVER (12/6-Hr)

Awards

Sunday, June 15 ~10:00 AM