FIRST RESPONDERS HALF MARATHON
OUR MISSION
The First Responders Half Marathon brings runners, walkers and first responders together to celebrate service, promote physical and mental well-being, and give back to our communities. Through an inclusive race experience and meaningful charitable partnerships, we strive to make every kilometre count — for those who serve and for the communities they protect.
Honouring Those Who Serve. Strengthening Our Communities. Running for a Cause.
The mission of the First Responders Half Marathon is to bring communities together through running, while recognizing the dedication, courage and service of those who protect and support us every day.
Rooted in Edmonton’s running community since 2009, our event was founded on a shared passion for running, community spirit and giving back. What began as the Edmonton Police Foundation Half Marathon has grown into a celebration of all first responders, including Police, Fire, Emergency Medical Services and Military personnel.
We are committed to delivering a safe, inclusive and memorable race experience that welcomes runners and walkers of all ages and abilities, encourages healthy and active lifestyles, and builds meaningful connections between first responders and the communities they serve.
Giving back is at the heart of our mission. Through our charitable partnerships, including our longstanding support of the Canadian Mental Health Association, we strive to raise awareness, promote mental well-being and make a positive, lasting impact beyond the finish line.
We run to honour service. We run for mental health. We run to build stronger communities.
SERIES HISTORY
SERIES HISTORY
In the early spring of 2008 two Constables within the Edmonton Police Service came together due to a common interest and passion for running. After having participated in numerous athletic events the question arose as to why Edmonton does not have a spring half marathon to kick off the race season.
After much research a proposal was put together and presented to the Edmonton Police Foundation. From that day on the race literally took off. An organizing committee which consisted of sworn and non-sworn employees of the Edmonton Police Service was formed for the Edmonton Police Foundation Half Marathon (EPFHM) and 5km Run/Walk. The committee brought on the expertise of Multisportscanada to assist in the management of the event.
Due to the inclement weather conditions in and around Edmonton, a search resumed to locate a venue. One that would accommodate a large crowd as well as have easy access to the spectacular running trails. Historical Fort Edmonton Park became the venue, showcasing a part of Edmonton’s origins and playing host to its first Half Marathon. Having access to a large hangar to serve the runners before and after the race will provide people with a warm and dry place to relax and unwind.
In 2011 event, we were proud to partner with the Laura MacKay Memorial 10Km Run and 5Km Walk supporting Cops for Cancer. Cst. Travis Eltom was the Founder of this event which ran in 2011 and 2012.
In 2013 the 5k and 10k events were brought under the EPFHM banner.
The goal for the race is to generate excitement through sportsmanship and community spirit for a great cause. By providing a professional, well organized and memorable race that people look forward to year after year.
In 2016, the event parted ways with the Police Foundation and was rebranded by Multisportscanada as the First Responders Half Marathon, expanding to encompass all First Responders – Police, Fire, EMS and Military.
Co-Founders: Edmonton Police Foundation Half Marathon
Cst. Lisa Simonson
Cst. Jana Marshall
Founder: First Responders Half Marathon
Trevor Soll
Multisportscanada
Charity of Choice
Our event has partnered with various charitable organizations who provide volunteer support. In exchange for this support, the event shares the net proceeds with these groups!
2009 & 2010: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Edmonton
2011 & 2012: Special Olympics Alberta & Cops for Cancer
2013: Special Olympics Alberta & the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society of Canada
2014 & 2015: Leukemia & Lymphoma Society & E4C
2016-Present: Canadian Mental Health Association, Alberta Division