About the Event
The Most Canadian Event Around: An event so unique that it could really only be hosted in Ottawa! Here's your chance to participate in the World's Oldest Winter Triathlon. This event has been going on since 1984, and it's part of the annual Winterlude Festival. This winter triathlon consists of skating, running, and cross-country skiing (classic or skate-ski).
Pre-Race Newsletter: Already signed up? Please read our Pre Race Newsletter. It has all the last-minute info that you'll need to get the most out of the event. It includes our Virtual Orientation Video and our Athlete Handbook, which are both great resources for anyone participating in the event.
Participants love: Skating on the Rideau Canal. The unique event! Doing a Winter Triathlon is a rare opportunity! The sense of accomplishment from participating in a race as crazy as this.
Included in your registration is: Bragging rights! Seriously, a triathlon in the middle of winter!? A personalized race bib. Professional timing. On-course nutrition from XACT. Race Photography. Post-Race snacks. Post-Race hot chocolate. Podium Prizes for the top 3 male, female, and non-binary athletes. Memories that you won't soon forget.
Race Details:
This event is a mass start, and the first one to the finish line wins! When the race starts, you'll: Skate 8K on the Rideau Canal Run 5K, from Dow's Lake to the Terry Fox Facility Ski 6K at Mooney's Bay, finishing at the Terry Fox Facility.
Race Day Schedule:
- 6:30am to 7:00am: Participants will set up their ski equipment at Mooney’s Bay
- 7:00am to 7:30am: Athletes will get on the shuttle buses, with their skates, and be bused to The Rideau Canal.
- 8:00am and 8:20am. The Winterlude Triathlon begins! We'll have two different start waves, and you can start at either.
Weather Note:
This event has been going on for 43 years, and has had 29 different variations over the years. The exact course is up to Mother Nature and the route/distances/sports are subject to change. In the event of a course change, refunds will only be given to those who opted into the cancellation insurance. Part of the fun is handling the conditions that are given to you on race day, so be sure to factor in some flexibility based on the weather we get.
Strava Files:
Looking for more course details, including elevation and direction? Click the links below to see detailed maps for each sport.
- Skating Route
- Running Route
- Skiing Route
Equipment Rentals:
Lafleur Ski Rentals are located inside the Terry Fox Facility. If you want to rent any ski equipment, contact them ahead of time to secure your rental. You can pick up your gear on race morning, then return it after the finishline. If you plan on using ski boots with long blades for the skating portion, consider renting a second pair of boots from Lafleur, so that you have a dedicated pair of boots for the ski.
