The Calgary Marathon is one of Canada’s longest-held marathon events. It started in 1963 with 19 people registered.
The streets of Calgary were filled with determination, celebration, and community spirit during the 2026 Calgary Marathon, sponsored by Servus Credit Union, in May.
2026’s edition marks its 63rd year! A record-breaking 20,000 participants and 1,600 volunteers joined, while hundreds of supporters cheered from the sidelines.
The marathon showcased athletes of all experience levels, from first-time participants to seasoned competitors.
Running for a Cause
The Calgary Marathon’s impact extended well beyond the finish line.
The event raised more than $700,000 for over 100 charities. reinforcing its role as one of the city’s most significant community fundraising events.
The Strong Like Sloane Foundation was one of the most visible charities this year. A total of 212 participants proudly wore bright green shirts in support of pediatric cancer research.
The foundation was established by Claire Masikewich after her daughter, Sloane, was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer in 2023.
Motivated by the discovery that only 7% of cancer research funding in Canada is directed toward pediatric cancers, Masikewich launched the foundation in 2024 to help drive change.
As runners approached the final stretch of the marathon, Masikewich and her team gathered to cheer on their sole full-marathon participant as he crossed the finish line.
The organization’s growth has been remarkable. During its first year, the foundation attracted 185 members and raised $120,000 for the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation’s pediatric cancer research initiatives.
“Last year we had 155 people and raised $166,000 and this year we have 212 people on our run team, and we have raised over $120,000 and we still have more money coming in and it’s all for pediatric cancer research here in our province,” Masikewich said.
Elite performances
Michelle Spencer of Guelph, Ontario, claimed the title of top female master runner with a time of 2:48:40.
On the men’s side, Nageso Nyafaro Tuse earned top male master honours. He finished in 2:22:18. The result came just one day after he placed second in the ASICS Runkeeper 10K event.
Originally from Kenya, Tuse relocated to Canada in 2024 after spending five years training in Iten, a community internationally recognized as “The Home of Champions” for distance runners.
Reflecting on the discipline required to complete a marathon, Tuse emphasized the importance of consistency and self-belief.
“People have to train and they have to commit to consistency, training, and(be) really confident,” Tuse said.
“Marathons are how you believe. If you tell yourself you can make it, you can make it. It’s easy, but for some people it’s maybe very hard, but you have to tell yourself you can make it.”
A celebration of community
The Calgary Marathon once again demonstrated the power of community, perseverance, and purpose.
With record participation, hundreds of volunteers, and hundreds of thousands of dollars raised for charitable causes, the 2026 marathon was a win for Canadians across the country.
Registration for the 2027 Calgary Marathon is opening soon. If you’re interested in participating, now is the time to dial in!
