Race: Royal Victoria Marathon

Runner: Taylor Haines

Race Date: 10/11/2026

Location: Victoria, BC

Results: 3:37:29

Strava Activity Link:  My Strava isn’t public!

3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?

• The scenery!  The course starts and ends at the gorgeous legislative building in Victoria, brings runners through the historic downtown, and hugs the coastline.  
• The Canadian community.  It felt like all the spectators and runners were all local and knew each other.  They cheered each other on but also were very supportive of “outsiders” like me.  The race is the day before Canadian Thanksgiving, and it felt like a Thanksgiving-eve party the whole time. 
• Organization.  The organizers sent out so much information beforehand that answered any questions I had.  The water stations and porta potties were also perfectly placed throughout the race with no lines or chaos. This was key for me. 

Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you

The first few miles of the race are very crowded.  The marathoners start after the half marathoners and 8kers.  The course also starts by going through downtown Victoria, which means if you’re a speedier marathon runner, you’re trying to make your way through a lot of runners in a crammed space.  It was hard to settle into a pace until mile 8 ish, where it finally starts to thin out.  

Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?

The rolling hills were a great way to mix things up and keep me from going too fast.  In essence, there were speed bumps throughout the course. 

Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner

If the weather is bad, a good portion of the course would be quite miserable because it’s fairly exposed. 

I allotted 15- 20 minutes for the bathroom and warmed up in line.  That was absolutely the right call!

Mile 12 – 14ish didn’t have many runners or spectators.  I was glad I knew this ahead of time.  Otherwise, those miles would’ve been tough. 

Lessons you learned that will help you next time around

I warmed up well before heading into my corral, which was a mistake.  I spent a good 15 – 20 minutes packed in my designated corral while the 8kers, half marathoners, and other marathoners were sent off.  By the time the race started, I was pretty cold (despite layering with some throw away layers)!  I saw that others (probably veterans) hung out just outside the roped off corral and had space to keep doing warm up exercises.  They hopped the rope just as the marathon waves started.  Maybe that isn’t the best practice, but I wish I had done it. 

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

The rolling hills don’t stop.  Don’t go out too hard with the half marathoners because you may gas yourself for the later hills.  

There are a lot of potholes!  I spent a lot of time looking down/weaving through people and potholes.  Be prepared to spend a lot of mental energy picking your line. 

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

GORGEOUS! The start and finish have an amazing backdrop with the legislative building, the Empress Hotel, and the Victoria Harbor.  The course is great mix of beautiful neighborhoods (and homes!) and spectacular views of the Olympic mountains. 

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

I would say it was on the easier side, but it’s not flat by any means.  The combination of the rolling hills and potholes could be more challenging if you aren’t prepared.  

Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?

Well-oiled machine!  From the pre-race information (speaker series, zoom calls, pasta dinners, Instagram course following, logistics emails, etc.), to the expo, to the start line, to the organized water stations, it never felt chaotic.  They also sent so many great recap emails, highlight reels, photos, etc. 

Competition – Is there a strong field?

The race is a Boston qualifier, BC Marathon Championships, and Abbott World Marathon Majors Age Group Ranking event, so I’d say so!

Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.

The race sold out this year, but I gathered that that doesn’t happen every year.  It seemed like it was mostly locals who ran it, and there are lots of hotels.  That said, book your ferry EARLY!  The ferries do sell out, and you never know what the weather will hold.  

Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?

Plenty aid stations, bathrooms, medics, etc. 

Weather and typical race conditions

The weather was great, all things considered (45 degrees fahrenheit to start and up to 60 degrees around midday).  It was a bit chilly at the start and did get toasty as the day went on.  I heard complaints from some people that it got too hot later in the day.  Based on race photos from previous years, it appears there has typically been great weather.  However, October in the Northwest is always hit or miss.  

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

Ish.  The course is an out and back – in theory, great for spectators.  My crew didn’t want to drive out on the course because there wouldn’t have been time to make it back to the finish line.  They found a good spot at mile 6 but couldn’t go much father on the course and make it to the finish with time to spare.  I did see some groups who made it to multiple stops on bikes, so that could be the answer. 

How’s the Swag?

Great!  Free draw string backpack and under armor three quarter zip.  They also were giving out free swag from previous years.  I purchased a New Balance windbreaker. 

The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it? 

10/10 gold stars. Amazing course, amazing organizers, amazing spectators, and all around fantastic vibes!