Ready, set, GO! - Unmissable Sporting Events Across South Eastern Ontario
Explore thrilling running, cycling, and boating adventures for all ages, packed with fun and excitement!
Whether running, cycling or boating is your jam, check out these family-fun events where adventures await. Read on for places to stay and great eats while hanging out in these waterside towns for the main events.
Running amok
1. St. Lawrence Marathon, Saturday, April 27, 2024. This is a Boston-qualifier marathon that follows the St Lawrence River from Crysler Park Marina, east of Morrisburg, to St. Lawrence College in Cornwall. Options include half-marathon, 10km and 5km distances that follow the scenic Great Lakes Waterfront Trail. Marathoners have been given a 15% discount on rooms at the Best Western in Cornwall. The hotel is located at 1515 Vincent Massey Drive. Watch the promo video here.
2. Thousand Islands Triathlon & Run, Sunday, Aug. 11, 2024, 70 Water St. E., Brockville, ON. Race options include Olympic Triathlon, Olympic Duathlon, Sprint Duathlon, Olympic Swim Cycle, 5km run, 10km run, sprint triathlon, and a Try a Tri (16+). This is a fundraiser for the Sobriety House. Fun fact: Participants of the Thousand Islands Triathlon & Run love traversing through the Brockville Railway Tunnel. It’s located at the base of Market Street West, just south of Water Street at the top of Blockhouse Island. Experience Canada’s First Railway Tunnel, which passes half a kilometer, from Brockville’s waterfront, right under the city. Enjoy the dynamic and colourful light show and new soundtrack. The path at the north end of the tunnel is now paved, leading to the gravel parking lot for your convenience.
3. The Country Marathon 2024, Sunday, Sept. 29. Prince Edward County. Registration is open for the 21st annual Prince Edward County Marathon, Half Marathon and Ultra 50K taking place on Sunday, Sept. 29. This event is now under the care and control of experienced race director Brian McLean. The marathon and the half are both Boston Marathon qualifying events. The Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation’s Back the Build program will be this year’s recipient of funds raised during the event. Both the marathon and half marathon are point-to-point routes with the marathon starting in Wellington, passing through Bloomfield before finishing in Picton. The half marathon will start just outside Sandbanks Provincial Park before finishing in Picton.
Cycling adventures
1. 1000 Islands St. Lawrence River Ride: May 24 to 26, three days and two nights from Gananoque to Cornwall. This includes two nights’ accommodations, two breakfasts and three lunches, snacks and hydration stops – it’s a one-stop weekend experience by bike. This 157km ride will start in Gananoque and end in Cornwall, and follow the Waterfront Trail east. It’s a mix of trails and roads along the 1000 Islands Parkway Trail and Long Sault Parkway, with stays in Brockville and Morrisburg. Take your time, and fall in love with these river views along the picturesque routes.
2. Ride the River is a fundraising event for the Brockville and District Hospital Foundation on Sunday, May 26. The event takes participants along the scenic 1000 Islands Parkway. There are two options to choose from. Riders supporting Ride the River have the flexibility to ride at their convenience and location of choice before May 26, or take part with others along the scenic 1000 Islands Parkway, with four distinct routes available: 5km, 25km, 50km and 100km.
3. The second annual Naturally L&A Gravel Ride on Saturday, June 8, promises to be one of fun and adventure as you traverse the backroad countryside. It starts and finishes at A Good Farm, 2017 Centreville Rd., Centreville. The fantastic route takes you through the wonderful rural countryside in Stone Mills Township, crisscrossing the Salmon River into the communities of Centreville, Croydon, Tamworth and Enterprise. Enjoy live music, local treats and a glass of beer from The Napanee Beer Company at the end of the ride! This 53-kilometre ride offers a great mix of asphalt and gravel roadways that are perfect for hybrid & mountain bikes.
Whatever floats your boat
1. Raisin River Canoe Race: Saturday, April 13, beginning at 9 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Catholic School, (17283 County Rd 18, St Andrew’s West). The Raisin River Canoe Race, Eastern Ontario’s longest, began in 1973. Covering 30km from St. Andrews to Williamstown, it occurs during the spring when water levels are high. Support from sponsors and the Race Safety Committee ensures successful coordination each year.
2. 1000 Islands Regatta and Festival, Friday, June 28 to Sunday, June 30, Brockville at Blockhouse Island. Legendary Canadian rockers, 54-40 will kick off the event on Friday as they captivate the audience with their timeless hits of the 1980s. On Saturday, the spotlight will shine on Canadian rocker Ian Thornley and Big Wreck, whose career spans decades and has been giving audiences an unforgettable show for years. This is the 15th annual Brockville Hydroplane Festival with unforgettable racing, live music and a kids zone with vendors and lots of food. Lots of places to say the weekend. Check this site out.
3.The Great Tubie Race in Morrisburg, Ont., Saturday, Aug. 3 and Sunday, Aug. 4, has been happening on the St. Lawrence River from Mariatown to Morrisburg for more than 50 years. Discover the vibrant energy of Morrisburg’s Tubie Weekend, an annual celebration featuring thrilling tube races, live entertainment, delicious food vendors, and a welcoming atmosphere that brings families and friends together for an unforgettable summer experience along the picturesque St. Lawrence River. What is a tubie? A tubie is a participant in the tubing races that are a central feature of this event. These races typically involve individuals or teams navigating inflatable tubes down a river course, competing for speed and skill – with lots of spills and thrills along the way. There is a parade through town the Saturday before followed by a dance that evening, with the race taking place from Arlor Haven Campground on Sunday. Camp overnight at the campground, or find a place nearby. But be sure to watch on their Facebook page for more information.
4.Kingston 1000 Islands Poker Run, Friday, Aug. 17 and Sunday, Aug. 18. Power boats from across the continent will zip to five stops throughout the 1000 Islands. At 80m/h, the competition is intense as participants race to collect playing cards to get the best poker hand. If you don’t have a poker face, you can watch from the spectator fleet or at card stops. After the race, enjoy a downtown street party, exhibits, live music, and incredible scenery in Kingston.
Places to stay
Morrisburg
The McIntosh Country Inn offers amenities that would rival most hotels and offers full-service restaurant and pub to satisfy any craving.
Tasty Tidbit: Did you know that John McIntosh discovered the original McIntosh apple in 1811. The young tree was found in an overgrown part of his orchard on his farm in Dundela, just a stone’s throw away from Morrisburg.
Cornwall
For the budget-friendly traveller, visit these places in Cornwall for a stay of less than $100 per night:
- Martin’s Inn: 2200 Vincent Massey Dr., with free Wi-Fi. Rooms start at $80/night.
- First Canada Inn Cornwall: 1618 Vincent Massey Drive, Cornwall, comes with free Wi-Fi, and 24/7 front desk service. Parking and AC included. Rooms start at $83/night.
- Century Motel: 1209 Brookdale Ave., where rooms start at $92/night.
Brockville
Hampton Inn by Hilton Brockville. Located at 290 Crocker Cres., the inn is in the middle of the action and the amenities of a busy city. Free hot breakfast, a heated pool and a 24-hour fitness centre are some of the perks of this location.
Sir Isaac Brock B&B Luxury Suites has guests raving about their stay in this limestone Georgian bed and breakfast at 89 Church St. in Brockville. The suites offer a unique historical feel in the middle of downtown Brockville. It’s a designated heritage property steps away from the Aquatarium, the Brockville Arts Centre and fine dining eateries. Enjoy personalized service in two newly furnished luxury suites, each having an ensuite and sitting area, and a free hot breakfast before you head out for a day of exploration.
The Nobel Suites in the heart of Brockville is located at 20 Broad St. offers seven suites and coach house to unwind and chill. The coach house sleeps six and is a separate two-storey building that is connected to the main house. Unlike most of the main hotel building, its décor is Early Canadiana, featuring pine floors, barn beams separating the living and dining areas, and exposed stone. It boasts modern amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen and zone heating, providing all the convenience and creature comforts travellers have come to expect.
Prince Edward County
Picton Harbour Inn, located at 33 Bridge St., Picton. Modest rooms and a homestyle restaurant on site. Prices start at $139/night. Enjoy pub fare in the Lighthouse Restaurant and take in the view of the harbour. A picture-perfect place to unwind and relax after a day of marathon grinding.
Runaway Rooster, 76 Main St., Bloomfield. Fly the coop and chill out in this cute country space. The B&B is nestled within a stunning red cedar log cabin, beckoning you with its charm and enveloping you in tranquility. Whether you choose to snuggle up on a plush couch or discover a serene reading nook in the welcoming Great Hall, adorned with its expansive windows and soaring A-frame wood ceiling, you’re sure to find blissful comfort. Hungry? Hot or cold, eggs or fresh fruits, your hosts are happy to accommodate.
Newsroom Suites, 269 Main Street, Wellington. Newsroom Suites is more than a comfortable retreat – it’s situated in the lively lakeside village of Wellington and is just steps away from exceptional food, wine, cider and beer makers. If you want to bring your own food and dine in, choose a room with a well-stocked kitchenette option.
Fuel up at these great eateries
Cornwall
Birchwood Restaurant & Bar: Located at 119 Sydney St. in Cornwall, you’ll find this fine dining experience one of the best in the city. With spectacular service and attention to detail, guests find themselves returning for pulled pork or a pan seared salmon, which are among the favourites. Enjoy a glass of Spanish wine, a smooth scotch, or a martini to order. Make a reservation here.
Big Bites Cornwall, 1003 Montreal Rd. Have a chicken Caesar wrap, poutine, fries, club sandwiches, or a variety of poutine, the generous portions won’t leave you wanting more. Rated four out of five stars by reviewers and won’t break the bank.
Riley’s Bakery, 248 Pitt St., Cornwall. Grab some soup and a sandwich, top it off with a sweet treat and you’re all set.
Brockville
The Noshery Steakhouse, located at 209 King St. W, Brockville, offers local cuisine. Not only is the steak cooked to perfection, but vegans and vegetarians will find something delicious on the menu. There are also gluten free options.
The 1000 Islands Restaurant & Pizzeria is located at 226 King St. W, Brockville, and offers delicious Italian and Greek flavours. This family favourite restaurant has been in the city for over 50 years offering their famous quality pies, perfected over time.
Kingston
Sima Sushi at 66 Princess St., Kingston, caters to locals and tourists alike. With a loyal following, it’s known for its quality ingredients, attentive service, and exciting dishes, making it a favorite destination in the area.
Lonestar Texas Grill, Lone Star Texas Grill, Ontario’s pioneer in Texas-inspired cuisine, has delighted patrons with award-winning fajitas for over 35 years. From sizzling wood fire-grilled specialties to Tex-Mex favorites, each dish is crafted with the freshest ingredients and house-made signature sauces, delivering the bold flavors of Texas to diners right at home.
Prince Edward County
The Dugout Grill at 514 Dundas St. E., Belleville. This one hits it out of the park. Large portions, flavourful favourites, and a great atmosphere for this family friendly restaurant.
The Miller House, 264 County Rd. 7, Picton (Lake on the Mountain) boasts one of the county’s most picturesque views, where patrons can indulge in dining either within the historic ‘miller’s house’ or on the patio, overlooking the bay 200 feet below as the ferry crosses. Specializing in tapas, small plates, and sharing platters, they offer an exceptional selection of local and imported wines, alongside their signature craft beer from Lake on the Mountain Brewing Company.
Other sporting events you might like:
Gear up for an unforgettable journey filled with adrenaline-pumping challenges and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a novice adventurer, these running, cycling, and boating explorations offer something for everyone. From scenic trails to serene waters, each destination promises a unique experience that will leave you craving more. So, lace up your shoes, hop on your bike, or grab a life jacket – the adventure of a lifetime awaits!