Somersault Hidden Gems

Happy New Year!

We’re excited for 2026, and we hope you are too. To kick things off, we wanted to highlight some of the Somersault Hidden Gems.

The Somersault series has been around for more than 45 years, and long-time fans of our races know the usual highlights. But over the past few years, we’ve added some new events to our schedule, and they’re a little different from most races.

If you’re looking for the fastest courses, or are focused solely on chasing a personal best, this might not be the list for you.

But if you’re looking for unique event experiences and different vibes, be sure to check out our top picks for 2026.

Hidden Gem #1: Our Winter Races 

The Embrace Winter Run has historically produced the slowest results of any running race in the region. Why? Because February conditions are completely unpredictable.

Some years, we’ve had 15 cm of snow fall DURING the race. Other years, it’s been bitterly cold. One year, it was +16 and sunny.

Since race-day conditions are never guaranteed, this is your chance to run purely for fun.

We also host a Winter Triathlon where you skate, run, and cross-country ski. Because the event is so unique, no one is really “good” at it. You show up, have fun, try something new, and still make it to weekend brunch on time.

Where else can you dress like this and fit right in?

Hidden Gem #2: The Mother's Day Run 

This event features a 1K for kids and a 5K for all ages and abilities. There’s no cut-off time, so you can truly soak in some of the best views of any race in the region.

Last year, more than 50,000 people attended the Tulip Festival during the run. The course was lined with spectators, making every participant feel like a total rockstar.

The course also winds through more than a million tulips.

Imagine running five kilometres with views like this at every step.

Hidden Gem #3. Camp Tri

This triathlon is hosted at a private campground. The swim is shallow and the water is calm, but it’s the bike and run courses that truly need to be experienced.

The bike course takes place on the Long Sault Parkway: 11 islands connected by a highway that we reserve exclusively for you.

You’ll enjoy stunning views of the St. Lawrence River on both sides as you island hop, along with forests and local wildlife.

During the race, you can push as hard as you’d like, but the calm environment makes this a true must-do. We cap the event at 600 athletes to preserve that special feel, and once you experience Camp Tri, you’ll understand why it has the highest number of repeat participants year after year.

Hidden Gem #4. The Wedding Dress Dash

This 1K event is open to everyone, but there’s one twist: you must wear a wedding dress!

It’s lighthearted, fun, and a unique way to celebrate running… and the wedding anniversary of our two race directors, the inspiration behind this race. After taxes and fees, entry is just $13.

The Fall Colours Run draws over 2,500 runners each year, and last year, 25 brave participants took part in the 1K Wedding Dress Dash before their main race.

You can join this dash alongside another race, or make it your only event. Use your own wedding dress, borrow one, or pick up an affordable or used option - it’s all about the fun.

Our Race Director, Adam Kourakis, even runs this race in his wife Elizabeth’s wedding dress. After hosting this event four times, Adam has officially spent more time in that dress than Elizabeth herself!

2026 Races are LIVE

If any of these events sound like your idea of a good time, you can learn more at Somersault.ca. With a full schedule of events planned, we truly believe there’s something for everyone. We hope to see you at a start line soon!

The Somersault Team