When is the race? The Glen Tay Block Race is held on the last Thursday in August. This year that day falls on August 25th. The gun goes off at 6pm.
Is there a time limit? You should plan to finish within 90 minutes. After 7:30, the road closures end. And it gets dark quickly.
Are the roads closed? Yes and no. The start/finish block on Gore street, between Foster and Herriott, is closed for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, from 5:45 to 7:30. There is an OPP escort for the lead runner and a sweep vehicle for the last runner. Otherwise, runners are asked to keep to the left shoulder facing traffic throughout the race.
Are there water stations? Yes, there are several water stations along the route. Each station has water and sponges to cool off. They are all on the left side of the road.
Are there refreshments at the finish? There are simple refreshments of water and oranges at the finish. Look in the beautiful traditional walled garden to the right of the museum to access the refreshments.
Are there prizes or awards? Yes. Overall male and female winners receive a blue Champions t-shirt, a first place medal, and their name engraved on the Bill Wilson Memorial Trophy (men) and the Perth Runners Trophy (women). The top local male and female athletes receive first place medals, a yellow race t-shirt, and their name engraved on the Tom Graham Trophy. Age group winners receive medals for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, as well as a yellow race t-shirt.
Is there anywhere to change before or after the race? How about a shower? Yes. The Perth and District Community Centre will be open from 5pm to 9pm. It is located two blocks from the start at 2 Beckwith St East.
Is this a competitive race? Yes and no. The Glen Tay Block Race is perfect for anyone wishing to test their fitness and/or speed. There are lots of very fast runners who compete but also plenty of middle-of-the-pack and back-of-the-packers. Don’t worry, everyone is welcome. Please plan to finish by 7:30pm, however.
Where is the awards ceremony? The awards are presented on the sidewalk in front of the Perth Museum. Bring a sweater for the post race…it can get chilly when the sun sets.
Can I register race day? Yes, bring $20 in cash ONLY, sign the waiver, and you’re off to the races…so to speak.
How is the race timed? There is no chip timing. We use old-fashioned manual timing (it helps keep costs low). Don’t worry, you will still get a time.
Where can I find results? Results will be posted on this Website on the Results page as soon as possible (remember timing is manual). Results are in PDF format.
Glen Tay Block Race 