For the last two years, Beach residents and businesses have hosted the turnaround of the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon. This year is no exception. Along with hosting this part of the run includes our making our stretch of Queen Street East available to the runners, but it also means we’ve got a world-class sporting event right in our own neighbourhood.
As far as getting in and out of the Beach on Oct. 16, it’s important to remember the timing of the road closures. This will be a full road closure of Queen Street East from Kingston Road to Neville Park Boulevard. Preparations begin at 8:30 a.m., with the full closure scheduled from 10 a.m. through 2:30 p.m. The whole event should be wrapped up by approximately 3 p.m.
The good thing is, Beachers get to enjoy a few hours of our beloved Queen Street without all the vehicles. Now, maybe on balance this isn’t something you’d have asked for. OK, I get that. But what’s the harm in taking advantage of the situation and cheering on a runner or two (or all 20,000)? Come out to one of the cheering sections to help the runners along. There will be two ‘Neighbourhood Cheering & Entertainment Centres’ nearby including one in Kew Gardens Park and one at Kingston Road and Queen.
The event website www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com recognizes a number of Beachers as ‘Neighbourhood Champions’, including: Duff McLaren, Anita Emilio, Dave Emilio, Keith Begley and Sari Lindvall. We wish all of our Beach runners all the best on Oct. 16.
A few weeks ago an event notice was sent out to remind and inform our residents and business owners of the event, road closures and cheering centres.
Here are a few excerpts from that Event Notice:
“On October 16th, 2011 every participant in the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon, Half Marathon and 5k will have their own dream of reaching the finish line.
“Over 20,000 runners from 50 countries will cross our finish line, and in the process, they will be giving back to the neighbourhoods they run through. Last year the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon raised $2.4 million for 125 local charities like Assaulted Women’s Helpline and Epilepsy Toronto. This year our goal is to surpass $2.75 million. With your support, we can make it happen!
“We work closely with the City of Toronto, Toronto Police, TTC and City Councillors to minimize disruptions and inconveniences for Toronto residents. Come out and support the 20,000 participants in the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon! Together, we can make a positive difference!
Cheering & Entertainment Centres
“On the morning of Sunday, October 16th, a team of judges will determine which of the neighbourhoods along our course has the best Cheering and Entertainment Centre.
“The best centre will be judged by how many people are out cheering, the quality of entertainment and the overall atmosphere. The three winning neighbourhoods will be awarded $6,000, $3,000 or $2,000 for their official charity, plus 2 honourable mentions winning $1,000 each! Come out and cheer to help your neighbourhood win!
“Note: Paid-duty police officers will be at all major intersections to safely direct traffic through gaps in the runners. Please expect some delays.”
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Thanks for the great column. Just an update on the traffic aspect. There are lots of access points for Beachers, esp. with Queen open for 2-way traffic from Beech Ave to Neville Park. The full road closure and diversion/access info is available (with two items pertaining to Beach residents) at: http://www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com/en/faq/faqclosures.htm#beach1