Waterfront Marathon - Toronto Hotels .com

The motto of this marathon -- "fast, flat, and festive" -- explains why this is one of the most beloved runs in Toronto. The "flat and fast" parts of the event -- which includes the marathon, half marathon, and 5K run -- allow an exceptionally high number of people to reach their goals, such as a personal best, qualifying for Boston, or simply an outstanding first marathon experience.

The events start and finish in the same spot in the heart of downtown and head out and back along the lakeshore on a flat course, which makes this one of North America's fastest marathons -- in 2006, 2:10:15. The festive weekend begins with speakers at a two-day expo, a short Saturday morning International Friendship Run, a carbo load pasta dinner, and a post-race Victory party on Sunday.

URL: http://www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com