CRR Fish Creek X/C Race
Returning March 6, 2027
Stay Tuned for the 2027 Details and sign up!
Event #10 of the 2025–2026 Grand Prix Series
Date: Saturday, March 7, 2026
Event overview
The Fish Creek X/C is the final race of the Grand Prix season, held in one of Calgary’s most beloved natural areas — Fish Creek Provincial Park. The course winds through wooded trails, open meadows, and steep hills, with all the classic cross‑country challenges: snow, ice, mud, water crossings, and uneven footing. Spikes or cleats are strongly recommended.
For history buffs, the race was first directed by Clare Loggie, who staged early editions both at Eagle Lake and within Fish Creek Park. The baton then passed to Frances Bagley, who guided the event for seven seasons through the 1990s, experimenting with different start locations such as the 24th Street entrance and Sikome Lake. Since the early 2000s, the race has been under the care of Karen Chugg, who has directed it for more than two decades. Her dedication has made Fish Creek not only the traditional finale of the Grand Prix series but also one of its most enduring and best‑loved races.
As the 10th and final event of the 40th anniversary Grand Prix series, Fish Creek carries extra weight. This is where runners can secure their overall and age‑category standings, and where those who have braved every race of the season complete the coveted 10‑race Iron Person challenge. It’s the ultimate test — and the perfect celebration of a winter of cross‑country running.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, March 7, 2026
- Kids Fun Run (0.5 km): 11:45 AM
- Main Race (~4 km & ~8 km): 12:00 PM
- Start/Finish:
150 m west of the Hull’s Wood parking lot, Fish Creek Provincial Park.
Registration
Please pre-register online (link coming soon) to save time on race day. Everyone will pay their entry fee on-site (cash only, inside the church). Pre-registered runners only need to pay, while those registering on race day must also complete the form.
- General Entry: $12
- CRR Members: $8
- Full-Time Students: $6
- Children 12 & Under: Free
Course Details
- Kids’ Fun Run: ~1 km, mostly flat
- 4 km: One loop with hills, snow, ice, and possible water crossings
- 8 km: Two loops or possibly an extension farther into the Park
- Terrain: Trails, meadows, steep hills, icy patches, uneven footing
- Footwear: Spikes or cleats recommended
Parking & Directions
- Parking: Hull’s Wood parking lot,, Fish Creek Provincial Park
- Directions: Follow Bow Bottom Trail south toward Sikome Lake; Hull’s Wood is 400 m north of Sikome Lake.
- Note: Park only in designated lots. Speed limit in the park is 30 kph. CRR is not responsible for ticketed vehicles.
Race Director & Volunteers
Race Director: Karen Chugg – 25th year as RD !
Volunteers are needed for setup, timing, marshalling, results, and kitchen help. To volunteer, email crr_xc@calgaryroadrunners.com — your help lightens the load and keeps the tradition strong.
Post-Race Social
- Location: Deer Run Community Centre (2223 146 Ave SE)
- Food: Hot soup, rolls, beverages
- Bring: Your own bowl, mug, and spoon to reduce waste
- Optional: Bring dessert or soup to share
Weather Policy
Races typically proceed if temperatures are warmer than -20°C. Final decision rests with the Race Director.