Arctic Marathon

Join our group of intrepid explorer-runners for the bi-annual Arctic Marathon, July - August, 2008!
Visit Cruise North Expeditions Website

On Wednesday, August 2, 2006 The First Annual Arctic Marathon took place at Douglas Harbour, a spectacular secluded fiord on the south shore of the Hudson Strait in Nunavik, Canada.

Almost forty excited participants made their way from sea level to the 3000 foot high plateau, where the 42 km course had been meticulously laid out with the assistance of staff from the nearby Canadian Royalties mine and volunteers from local Inuit communities.

All participants were unanimous in their enthusiastic praise of the unique serenity and scenic beauty of the course, the perfectly pure air and occasional curious caribou.

Water stations were manned by Inuit volunteers proudly wearing the special shirts made for the occasion. Inukshuks were built at each km point along the course the morning of the race. A truck provided by the mine and two ATV's were used to ferry volunteers, equipment and runners along the course. All aid stations had Inuit spotters with rifles in case of a hungry polar bear or wolves. The medical director from the Toronto Marathon, Dr. Chris Woollam and his brother Dr. Rob Woollam along with the ships doctor provided medical coverage.

All finishers received beautiful 3" medals specially cast for the inaugural event. The overall winner was Fiona Savage of Toronto in a time of 4:01 who received a marvelous Inuit soapstone carving generously donated by Canadian Royalties.

This was part of a 7 day cruise through Hudson Bay into the Hudson Strait and Ungava Bay. Marathon legend Bill Rodgers was aboard for the week as well as Bart Yasso from Runners World magazine.

All participants raved about the scenery and wildlife that they saw during this once in a lifetime journey.

Travel by expedition ship through one of the most picturesque and pristine places on earth. We explore the Arctic coastline, calling at traditional Inuit villages and remote wildlife colonies. Daily excursions by zodiac boat take us up close and personal to icebergs, polar bears, walrus and whales.
The next cruise is scheduled for July - August 2008. Come join us!

For photos, click here!

Please contact Fiona if you would like further information: 416-505-4929 or fionasavage@rogers.blackberry.net.
For information PDF, click here!