Road Race Results.com Midnite Run & Party presented by Longos – Toronto

I finally checked this cool race off my bucket list and it did not disappoint. My friend agreed to go with me which I am really glad about because I did find the course tricky and challenging to navigate and it was fun to work this out with her. We had a map but its dark in some places, such a cool sightline with the city in the background. We chickened out of the pre race fitness challenges but that was such a fun and unique way to get into the spirit of the evening, the lineups went fast for registration and washrooms and when we started the fireworks scared us as we did not expect them so close. The tshirt was really well designed and the simple finish medal more than enough (I hate those huge, elaborate ones). Most importantly for my friend and I we really wanted to improve our fitness and we both actually started regular workouts before the 31st and we feel that 2020 will be bright for our future running and racing because we started this way.

Awesome idea - a great way to kick off the new year! The fireworks at the start were a nice touch and boosted everyone's energy. The staff and volunteers were all very welcoming. The course however was really confusing and the wayfinding was lacking. A lot of the course was backtracking and running where you already were, which got confusing when runners ahead or behind you were running alongside you in opposite directions. At one point several runners and I had to stop and ask each other where to go next and actually pull out a map. No volunteers there to help. Would definitely recommend finding alternate routes for future years that don't involve backtracking through parking lots. They also promised champagne at the finish line, which I did not receive :( Overall though, a positive way to start the new year and I would consider running again next year.

I love the concept, and I was very glad to start the new year running. The fireworks in view of the CN Tower were cool, swag was generous (the shirt seems to be decent and technical, though no flashy design), and there *was* champagne at the finish. And the start was close enough to the pub that we could stay inside until *just* before new year, a good thing when it was as cold as it was.

All that said, this was not the best-organized race I have ever been to. Looking at past years' reviews, it seems this is a trend. Some issues this year:
-My friend who picked up our race kits told me that part was fairly disorganized.
-I would have expected a big countdown to midnight, a horn, a gun, something, it's the start of a race *and* the freaking new year...but there was a bit of someone shouting out and "oh, I guess we're running, and it's the new year now".
-Course marking/marshalling was poor. A winding course may have been unavoidable, but then extra care should have been taken that we were *not* running past double-sided signs from both directions--as it was, we ran past "4", "3", AND "2" two times each. My sister-in-law was in a group that got lost and ran extra blocks. Possibly worst, it was not clear where the finish line was, that's pretty basic!
-the drinks and food provided by the *race* were not coordinated with the *pub* where the race was at. So we weren't technically allowed to bring our beers into the pub, leaving us to either try to sneak them and save them for later, or chug them before either they or we turned to ice in the -20 (plus windchill) conditions. Similarly, there was a stack of pizzas that people could only have some of on their way out, since it wasn't pub food. (My friend and I got none.)
-As someone noted in another year, it wasn't really a dance party afterward as advertised. Just a bunch of people chilling at a pub. Which is alright...but again then, could we not have coordinated with the pub so that we could drink our included beers in warmth and comfort?

Still three bananas because it *was* awesome to be out there running in the new year, and there was a pretty fun spirit of cameraderie, not to mention bragging rights of having run Canada's coldest 5k this year. But having checked that off my list, it's not a must-do for next year.

our family visited toronto over the holidays and we found this great little run online, it was super easy to access liberty village and we had great service from the registration staff when we showed up. it was a super area of the city especially for people not from the area as everything we needed was all in one place (bank machines, coffee shops, stores and places to eat).

the goodies bags were ridiculously good, better than anything we had received before, the start line was full of high energy, although the fireworks sputtered a few times in the windy conditions so that was a bummer. we did not stick around too long after the finish line champagne as we went straight to another run (kidding, we went to our hotel) but that was a very memorable evening for us that we will never forget.

I decided late in the month to do this event as my friends were going and my back up plans for NYeve fell through. I was called because I was more of a runner than my friends were and although 5k races are not my thing I realized this was more of a fun run than anything else. The vibe was great all nite, and even though the course is dark (as advertised) and there are many turns it was safe from cars and relatively easy to race through except for some icy patches in one section.

The fireworks seemed to sputter and misfire so maybe the wind was a problem, but we did get to see a few of these which was cool. The post event party was good, great food and what other race offers champagne right at the finish line? The medal was great if you drink wine and the goodie bags had two alcoholic beverages so of course we drank these tail-gate style throughout the course of the evening, appropriate for the evening. We live outside the city and getting a good priced hotel was easy and there was plenty of choice, we had trouble getting a cab out of the village but so did a lot of others. Te price point for the event was more than fair considering everything we got, the toque was perfect to run that night and I have paid $75 for a lot of other races and got far less.

I would have liked to have seen the post event results a little quicker.

I would definitely do this race again, not every year like some people I met.

This race was not good. I will list a Cons and Pros list for easy reading. I will write some pros because there is always something good to say. Now I am not a 'bad review writer' by any means but I do want to make it known to people that the money that you will pay for this race is NOT WORTH IT AT ALL.

Cons:
-course was dark
-course was VERY icy and several people fell
-course was not manned very well with volunteers (no one at the turn around)
-course was not well marked (we got off course)
-there were cords to trip on at start/finish
-the race bibs were from a previous year and had the 'old' year marketed out
-the medals were 'ok' but the money that was paid for the entry may have at least had a year-specific lanyard
-the gloves were cheap gardening gloves that were one size (huge!)
-the food ran out right away and they only replenished one thing at a time, spaced out by 15 minute intervals and was demolished immediately
-no bathrooms at start (you had to walk to the pub)
-very expensive $80
-the dance party was NOT a dance party, it was very low key and mellow. Not a party at all.

Pros:
-great swag bag
-provided party hats
-had champagne, water and gatorade available
-had a great bag check
-nice volunteers at packet pickup
-coffee at packet pickup
-the food (if you could get it) was AMAZING

I will NOT run this again.

I was super excited for this run. It was poorly marked and we got lost on the way.
There were no volunteers at all the turn arounds which could have avoided us going the wrong way.
There was way more ice on the route than the original email of the day indicated.
There was no map of the race route released which could have helped us avoid going the wrong way...
There was supposed to be food at the after party and by the time we got over there was NOTHING left for us.
The after party in itself, was not very happening and I'm very disappointed in that.
There could be A LOT of improvements to this. I love the idea, but the execution was severely lacking.
For 100$ you'd expect A LOT more.

A nice alternative to the bar scene on NYE.

I like starting a new year by running. This was the second time to join this race.
First of all I thank those volunteers and staff who prepared and served everything for runners.
Secondary, the course is still too dark for me who is not familiar with this area. I think we have to run some same parts of the course. I might have confused some of other sing boards such as parking lots or corns. Eventually, I finished by running and walking extra 1km. If you could have more staff or put more corns, it would be better. I saw the corns that lead to the parking lot. But the entrance is narrow and I thought it was the dead end.
Totally, I love this concept and race. I met first new friends for this year!
Thank you so much for all of you.

What a way to ring in the New Year!

I was nervous about doing this run because I thought I might get lost or be way to slow but that wasn't the case at all. The route was well marked and people of a fitness levels were running.

The organizers and volunteers were great, they worked so hard and seemed to be having a great time.

It was really nice crowed of people and I'm looking forward to beating my time next year.

I've run this event 3 years in a row. Something keeps me coming back. Perhaps because I feel compelled to get out at NYE and do something or perhaps I just want to start the NY off on a good foot. The race itself hasn't changed. It's still in Liberty Village. It still has pot holes along the course. It's still dark. But hey, these are the limitations of the race permit, so I am ok with it. I just take the run cautiously. The race director attempts to do his best at a swag bag. In contrast to other races, it is better than most. For an experienced runner, one would know, most races don't put out much nowadays except a few flyers. This bag had some Vector Samples, bottle of water, race info, a sample of ReSkin, 6 bottles of Rumble protein drink and the NYE's foam hat. We also we given a choice of gloves or hat. After the race, we were given pizza from Panago, salad and some other snacks as well as champagne and or Stem Whistle beer. The race bling was either a Steam Whistle can opener with the NYE lanyard attached to it or a Midnite run medal. (they have used in previous years). I had a good time, although I could see some improvements on the event overall. None of which has to do with the race course. For that reason, I give it a 5.

It was a fun night! I had no expectations for the evening above having a chilly midnight run but it turned out to be a pretty cool time. The route was clearly marked and there were many event staff on site to ensure no one got lost. A water station at the mid point might have been a nice touch.

The food after was great. Lots of pizza, salad and snacks for everyone! I even won a beer on the dance floor.

I would do this run again!

Awesome time! Found this run by doing a Google search of alternative New Years activities because I don't drink. This run was a lot of fun and is like to thank all the organizers and volunteers that made it possible. ☺️

What a great way to start the year!

I was worried about getting lost during the run or being left behind and that wasn't a problem. The run was well marked and people of all running abilities were there.

Organizers were so friendly. They worked so hard but seemed to have a great time doing it.

I can't wait until next year, maybe I'll win the beer for a year in 2017!

Great way to spend new years
Enjoyed the run, champagne,fireworks and post race chill at bar vespa. Met some cool people
Cons: Swag bag and post race food weren't impressive
Soup tasted burnt and sandwiches were ok
Warm meal and hot chocolate would be great next year
Overall a great alternative to the bar scene

I believe my expectations were realistic, but I was still disappointed.

I personally won’t be attending again or recommending to others. That said, others seemed to enjoy it, and feel it’s worth the money, so take it all with a grain of salt and decide for yourselves!

Disappointment aside, I think the intentions of the promoter are sincere, and it’s a great concept, but the execution is flawed.
Kudos to all who participated and braved the cold & dark to kick off the new year in an interesting way!

After contemplating this event last year I chose to give it a go to start 2015. I absolutely LOVE the concept and leading up to the start I was really looking forward to it.

The organizers did the best they could with the course while trying to keep it within Liberty Village limits and the fireworks were an awesome display to see and celebrate early in the route. Volunteers were also great and enthusiastic.

The cost and the afterparty are my main beefs. The swag bag is also highly advertsied, but if half of it is advertising to be recycled, it's not great. The afterparty was a bust as well and not worth the hype. Good try, but not something I'll bother experiencing again.

This is a truly unique and enjoyable way to start the New Year! The Race is fun, well organized, and the food and drink afterwards is amazing. No stale bagels at this event!
The organizing team is super as well, quick to respond to questions, great to deal with, and just plain awesome.
Thanks!

I did this race for the first time this year, and overall it was pretty good! I have a couple of things I would change though. The first is the after 'party', which wasn't very good. It was a little boring so I ended up leaving just after 2 (it may have got better). There was no dancing, quiet music, and some guy mumbling into a mic for an hour. I would also have changed the route to avoid alleys with pot-holes. On the organizational end, it was pretty good. The volunteers were enthusiastic, and kit pick-up was easy. Post race food was decent too, but they ran out of vegetarian subs.

This was my third year in a row doing this race and it's the best way to ring in the new year. I'd like to recognize the race director as for all the weather related issues that hampered last year they acknowledged people's feedback and I was sent a hand written letter afterwards apologizing. This years race was back to perfect with a great group of runners participating, plenty of food, Steam Whistle beer and champagne at the end, great fireworks display and loved the Bar Vespa location.
I had a great time and will be back!

Let me see if I have this all correct, I am new to these online reviews but not races and events, this run last nite was my first Midnite race but 14th of the year. I also travel alot to races and was able to combine a stop to Toronto on business with a fun and different way to spend Dec 31st.

Amazing communication from the organizers all the way through the last few weeks, both on social media and in regular emails, which helped me since I am not from Toronto (Boston).

I paid $85 and was totally fine with that, it's New Year's Eve afterall and for what we got, actually a fair price. Best swag bag of the year, great toque, free tech shirt which was not advertised and although a little small for me it will be re-gifted!

Fireworks on the course....super fun even though one seemed to fall over and scare a few people. Accurate route that despite alot of turns and loops was extremely organized, I counted four cyclists who had better be getting a second serving of hot soup for their efforts. The food and party after were FUN, there were even crazy scenes at the after party with many prizes including an arm wrestling contest, a guy who stripped down and flexed his muscles for a free pair of shoes, and more.

Toronto seems to have become less conservative than I last remembered, maybe the last Mayor has loosened everyone up. I wish I could buy Steamwhistle where I live it's a superb brand (I am in the beer business so I know my suds). I will definitely try to run this event again and bring some buddies to make a weekend of it.

This was my first race in Canada. It was a great experience. I met new friends & will meet at least next Midnight Run! That will be nice:D They are all great sportswomen. I was impressed & motivated for working out.
The course was partially so dark & the road is rough. I will bring a light to illustrate the front.
I thank all volunteers for cheering us up in such a cold weather.

Very good event Great way to ring in New Years. Much improved from last year

Kudos to the race crew! Lots of improvements from last year. Awesome food and organization. I'm glad i returned.

Fun run. Beer, sandwiches and champaign in the end. :)

This was a great race! My second year and will be back!

I can't wait to come back and do this race next year, I ran the first two and have to miss this year (sadly). It's one of the highlights of my running season and I usually try to race once per month.

I did hear from some friends that last year (2013) was a bit of a mess with the ice and slippery conditions plus it was minus 25 apparently so hardly any marshalls were out, so yeah some people went awol on the route.

If you are reading these reviews know this, it's a FUN event, great value for the money and memorable unlike most other small runs under 1000 people. Wwwwaaaayyyy better than sitting at home or going to a club and my gfriend at the time who was not running had fun hanging out and supporting a very worthy cause to boot.

What a great way to start a new year! It was fun, not too serious and a lot of like minded people! Thanks for a unique way to ring in 2014 in Toronto!!

The only complaints come from Mother Nature's ice storm so the route was icy and a little bit of confusion about the route - I think I may have missed a turn and ran 4km or so.. but really it was about a fun way to start the year!! So thanks to the organizers for a fun run!!

Thanks everyone for the feedback, we definitely agree on some of the points particularly the course and some mis-direction between the first and second loops. One is short and one is long so some of you ran two long legs! And many of you only ran the first long loop, which of course was icy and not really in our control to manage this year after the ice storm.

We decided to focus our limited staff efforts in the last few hours on making the route as safe as possible, and with 200 cones not delivered due to a supplier mix up we scrambled to get a limited number of large barrels out in key sections, and our glow in the dark signs (100) were barely used as they worked mostly with the small cones.

We do want these comments to appear as excuses and yes, for some of you, an accurate 5km is the way to start or end your running season, so we apologize for this shortcoming. We are under strict limitations from the City of Toronto to keep this event within the confines of Liberty Village with ZERO road closures for now, which is why we utilize private property, parking lots, laneways and other interesting route alternatives to the major road(s) running through LV. We also do not have the capability or permission to professionally clean with snow plows the entire course, so when mother nature dumps this type of storm on us, then it melts two days before, then freezes again....it's a recipe for possible disaster. Our team on the Course led by Mark Henderson spent many hours Tuesday evening salting and sanding as much as possible with limited resources (the entire City was Sold Out of salt on the weekend prior due to the ice storm). We all slipped and fell ourselves getting the course ready!


Our registration team decided to stay in Market Bistro and it seemed like there was just a short time period when there was actually a line up, and the bag check for all purposes was well controlled and secure, it was the third straight year we used different post run venues so we possibly did not make best use of all the space available.

Market Bistro prepared excellent, tasty hot food but we agree that Alfredo and his team were ill-prepared for so many veggie options requested, and he did serve over 300 servings of soup so it appears that many of you had second servings!

We do have to keep the race results "official" as per standard road race rules but we are going to recognize the two fastest male and female runners who did actually "win" the race and led from wire to wire, Madeleine Cummings from TOC and Jose D. Suazo Tellez, both from Toronto.

This was my second time attending this race, I was one of the few in the first year when it was 9 degrees outside and some of us wore shorts. Everything was perfect the first year except the size of the crowd, so when I heard there was a real party venue this time, I signed up immediately.

I agree with the other comments and was glad the course stayed the same so a few of us figured out where the volunteers went wrong and we managed to run exactly the same course as the first year, and yes it was very slippery but we did take care and were not racing. No water station was a bummer and we did wish to see the fireworks (I brought my camera just in case)!

BUT overall it was another great event and we hung around till 2:30 am then hit another bar in Liberty Village before closing time.

My family came back for a third year in a row to do this fun run, which we always look forward to. It was disappointing to not have an accurate finish but more for my daughters who now run competitive cross country and wanted to compare their times from the previous year. It was all a moot point anyway as the roads and parking lots were better served if we wore our hockey skates!

The post run food was excellent although last year there was dessert for everyone, but that seems pretty picky. The goodie bag was excellent and my husband and I will be taking up some dance lessons which were part of the entry fee, so how many races can offer this? We also ran the Monster Dash earlier this fall and had a blast, so we are fans of good times running and can't wait to see what else they come up with.

We would like to see a new route and venue next year and maybe a bigger event since the more people who attend should mean an even bigger party past midnite.

I finally got to do this run, which I heard about in the first year but could not make due to travel plans outside the city. I booked early thinking we were all getting the bottle of Prosecco like the first two years, but realized after it was no longer part of the promotion.

No matter, the value was worth it! To my surprise at packet pick up I had the choice of gloves or a toque, so glad to not have yet another bad tshirt option, I wore the toque during the cold run. I convinced a friend to come and watch and hang out with me, and she joined me at the after party, we were dancing till they kicked us out at 2:45 am! It was great to meet runners from all over the place, I felt like a host telling the out of towners where to go around town.
I am not a serious runner and running a bit short of 5km was okay especially since it was minus 20, I was also lucky to have seen a few of the fireworks that did work, I will totally come back next year with friends!

This was my 4th running event of the fall (Santa Shuffle, Scotia Bank 5km, Monster Dash) and by far the most fun! Despite the cold weather, I had a good time, feeling welcome from Japan along with the runners I met from Mexico City and two girls from Austria.

I am not used to running on ice and almost fell, not seeing the fireworks was disappointing but I heard many had difficulty working on the extreme cold and wind. I really enjoyed the hot food after and dancing till 230 am was cool.

I was really excited to come across this race while I was visiting Toronto over the new year, and having read very good feedback from previous years I decided to sign up. The entry fee was pricey, but I figured for a decent goodie bag, champagne upon finishing, after party and the uniqueness of the event it was worth it.

Although I had a good time, I have to agree with other reviewers that this year's race was clearly affected by poor organisation. Race kit collection went fine for me, I showed up mid-afternoon and the volunteers were friendly and welcoming. I was impressed with the race pack, you did get a lot more stuff in there than with most races.

Prior to the event emails were sent out stating that the post-race party in Danceology would start from 10:30pm. On this basis, and as I was running alone, I showed up with the hope of getting to meet a few fellow runners prior to the race. Unfortunately I was turned away from the party, along with other runners, and we were told that only non-runners were welcome to the party before the race. I ended up standing in the bag check area for an hour. Fortunately I did get chatting to others during this time but it definitely didn't live up to what had been promised.

The atmosphere was good and starting the race at midnight was great...what better way to see in the new year?! However, there were clearly issues with the course. To begin with, it was way icier than we had been led to believe. I feel the extent of the ice was downplayed...very little of the course had been salted. I didn't mind but it would have been helpful to know beforehand, particularly for those who would have chosen to wear Yaktrax had they been aware. I was also told by a fellow runner that during previous years there were champagne stations. This year, we had been told there would be water stations at least. I didn't see any evidence of this on the course, and was disappointed by the lack of champagne en route, my expectations having been raised by hearing that they had done this before!

There were also significant issues with course marking and direction. I'm not sure if anyone actually ran 5k...I ran over 6k, along with perhaps the top 20 runners. Everyone else found the course measured short, at around 4k. I still don't understand how this happened but there was clearly confusion amongst the volunteers and as a result runners were misdirected. For an entry fee over $100 I don't think this is acceptable, even if it is a fun run.

This skewed the results and as far as I am aware it was not taken into account when prizes were awarded. There were prizes available for those who 'beat the banana'...which many did due to the inaccuracies in the course!

Following the race there were long lines for the bag check, champagne and food. The after party was good - the DJ was playing decent music and there was a good selection of drinks...I danced until the lights came on and went away feeling like I'd had a really good night. However, that was more down to people that I met during the night and also to the general experience of doing an interesting, unique event at new year. My enjoyment was despite the organisation of the race, not because of it.

I'm hesitant to rate the race poorly as I think it's a great idea and on this basis I would consider returning in the future (if I was already in the area!). However, I'd like to see an acknowledgement by the organisers of what went wrong this year, particularly in regard to the misdirection/poor course marking and the inaccuracies in the results. And I'd want to feel confident that these issues would be addressed before next year, otherwise it's a pretty steep price to pay for such a short race (especially for those who only ran 4k!).

We came all the way from Manchester UK to visit Toronto and take part in the Midnite run - a fantastic experience, what a great way to bring in the new year. Thank you to the organisers for making it such a great experience for us!!!

At packet pickup it was a breeze and despite the cold weather and icy conditions we were very pleased to have participated, it's a great way to do something different on Dec 31st.

I signed up for this race based on the glowing reviews from last year so I feel like it is it all the more important to contribute my own review. Let me start by saying that the venue, the food, the goodie bag and the after party were all good. It's the run that left a bad taste in my mouth. Even though it is a "fun race" it is important to maintain a modicum of professionalism by at least having the race be what it purports to be: a 5km run. Unfortunately, not everyone in the race ran the same distance as a result of conflicting directions being given by the race marshals in a dimly lit non marked course. I love the idea, but the execution was disappointing. I am unlikely to be returning next year.

After reading previous reviews I decided to do this event. However this event did not deliver on the level expected

The course was extremely icy and dangerous . I slid a few times and at one point I tripped over a branch on the trail and nearly fell. The guidance on the course was poorly directed . My group and I were directed to the finish line in just over 3k.
The food line up was slow and after waiting for a considerable amount of time for a vegetarian option I was told that the vegetarian soup option was no longer available.
The overal concept was amazing but what was promised was not executed well

No fire works, 5k event, food options, champagne at the finish line and registration for the event was poor. Had to call back various times.

I would consider this event if these things would be reviewed for the next event.

I have run this event 3 years in a row and it has gotten a little bit worse every year. I was not really impressed this year. The packet pickup place was a poor choice when the large long hall that we ended up eating in would have been a better option for faster pickup and flow of people. The stuff in the swag bag was good but it has been better in previous years.
The race seemed disorganized right from the beginning with volunteers sending me in the wrong direction, other runners being kicked out of Danceology when they arrived early even though we were told it was open to us.
I knew some of the volunteers and they were disappointed that they showed up early so that they would have an opportunity to run the course and that was cancelled because it was too dangerous. But it wasn’t too dangerous for the racers? I did hear they salted some sections instead.
The race itself was dark as usual and it seemed like there were less volunteers at key points than in previous years. The ice was treacherous in some places and I was glad that I wore my Yaktrax. I was one of many if not all that went off course as I was following the leaders. But I knew it felt wrong and after some discussion with the two ladies running in front of me, we agreed to turn around and head for the finish.
As I finished somewhere near the front, I was able to get my food quickly and find a spot to sit and eat. I was surprised at how many runners had to sit on the floor afterwards. More tables and chairs would be better next year.
I actually stayed at the after party this year and that part was ok. The DJ played some good music and those that were there seemed to have fun dancing.
I don’t expect that I will return to this race next year unless a lot of improvements are made.

I have done this race all 3 years its been in existence. I feel it has gone downhill despite all the marketing and all the things promised.
Once again, bag pick-up on the night was in a space far too small leading to overcrowding and long lines.

Volunteers didn't appear to know where to direct runners. One told me to go one place while another told me to go to another place.
I knew several of the volunteers and they told me that their own practice run of the course was cancelled. Had they had the opportunity to run the course, perhaps they would have been better able to direct the runners once the run started.

The race itself was a fiasco this year. I don't think anyone ran the correct course with many running less than 5K and several running more distance.

There were not enough tables or space for all the runners to sit and eat. While I was able to get my food and drink fairly quickly, I could see the long line of people waiting after me.

Because of the disaster with marshalling/directions during the race, the awards were a bit of a joke. And I say this even though I won an award.

The after party was ok I admit. At least this year, they actually had a venue unlike last year when people were spread out over 3 different places.
The swag bag was good as well. That's a big plus for this race. You don't get goodies like that in most races.

I love the idea of a NYE race, but this one has a lot of problems and issues to overcome. It's an expensive race and I don't think it delivered. I don't think I will be back next year.

I was also frustrated by the situation on the course but overall my group thought the event was excellent, we had a blast. Some of us are not "runners" so we think that the hard core run crowd are deservedly accurate with their comments.

As a mature group (over 40) we are used to some lineups on new years' eve, and from the pick up, run, food and party we were enjoying one of our more interesting nights on nyeve in a long time, despite the cold weather. I think everyone who is into health and fitness should do this run.

The 2013 run was absolutely nothing like the 2012 run.

I had such an amazing time in 2012, that I brought a bunch of my friends to the 2013 one, and it was not the experience I thought I'd be showing them.

There were no fireworks, no champagne water stations, and a pretty overall low energy experience.

There was an enormous line up for food and drink at the end, we didn't even bother waiting, and left to go home instead.

I actually went for a run with my running group a few hours beforehand, and to be honest, I think next year, I'm just going to get all my friends to go out together.

I really really wished they could have had my 2012 experience.

I had a terrific experience, along with my wife who was a spectator, we did not stay too long afterwards as we had another party to attend! I agree with some of the comments regarding the course mix ups, but my expectations were not the same as others. I did review the course map and even printed a copy, since running in the dark (race) was new to me, so I and the group I was with did not run short or long, but we agree with how tricky the course was, many turns and a short-long loop, and we did see some runners scratching their heads out there.

I enjoyed the post run food and quickly got my meal, glass of champagne and beer and left before the party broke out, which my friend said lasted well past 2:00 am. The goodie bag pick up for us was easy since we arrived early and bag check was a non issue, we also plan on using the free dance lesson offer so this swag was by far the best I have ever seen. I did almost wipe out myself on the course but after the biggest ice storm hit the city I went in knowing the course might have the challenges of ice and snow (plus I checked the pre race emails which warned me of this).

Congrats to everyone for starting the running season on the right foot!

The event was a fun and exciting new experience for me, but definitely could have been better organized. There was confusion and a lot of waiting with the race-kit pick ups and the post-run soup and sandwiches. The course itself was icy and unmarked, and I didn't feel that I completed the whole 5k distance even as I was crossing the finish line. Participants and volunteers were all energetic and excited though! I'm glad I got to do this race once, but don't think I'd do it again.

It was a fun run with fun people in it. The facilities were nice and we had ample space to stay warm before the race. The organization was very lacking, though. Many racers, including ourselves, went off course and we only completed 3.4k. Some others went over 5k. The marshals were contradicting each other and could be heard talking on phones trying to do damage control during the race, but by that point, it was right out of control. In this age of races, this was a huge let down.

This run was on my radar for over a year and I was finally able to do this, another bucket list checked off! Overall I thought it was one of the best experience I have ever had, and despite the high registration fee (early bird was $75) it more than delivered on the promises advertised.

Pre event communication was awesome, and as the race drew nearer the buzz was building, The goodie bags were awesome and although crowded the line up for packet pickup was handled well, it was by far the COLDEST race I ever did but the start line energy when we took off warmed me up (plus the shot of tequila I drank beforehand hit the spot). Yeah, I was not trying to run a PB and paid attention to the organizers who reminded us that there was alot of ice on the course.

The course was cool and too bad the fireworks had technical difficulties in the cold and wind (I heard that some went off so at least a few people got to see these). I think I got lost too like some others but overall my garmin said 4.8km's so I will keep the awesome finsher's medal! Post race food, two thumbs up and at the after party by 2am I had met the gals from Austria and a couple of americans, but the Mexican family were not at the bar drinking tequila as advertised! The hard working volunteer at the bag check who still had my stuff at 2:30 deserves a raise, and the DJ rocked the house playing a few songs I requested.

Good Times Running is the company behind this cool event and with all the ice storms and cold weather they seemed to pull this off amazingly well, so I am certain to go back next year and bring some friends along with me!

What a great way to start the new year! The event was well organized, staff and volunteers were friendly and supportive! Thank you all for guiding the way for us runners, fast and slow, while standing in the snow! Ill definitely run next year. Unfortunately I didnt stay for the festivities afterwards but I will in 2014! Have an awesome 2013 everyone and see you all next year!

What a great way to spend new years eve! The route was dark and snowy, but it made it different than all other races! The event organizers were great. Receiving your medal and a glass of champagne after crossing the finish line was awesome! The costume contest gave all competitors something common to talk about before the race. Food after the race from aroma cafe was delicious, though the "after party" wasn't quite happening. Overall, a great way to ring in the new year! Can't wait to do it again.

My friends called me a fool to skip the bars and restaurants to run 5km at midnight on New Year's eve. I ran the first race last year and came back again in 2012. It is a very fun event and this year's event improved a great deal with significantly more lighting than last year.

Bit of confusion with the timing chips so a few of us ran without one but that is not the end of the world.
The food was great at Aroma Cafe. Perhaps another venue with more space for post race partying would be ideal.
Thanks to the nice volunteers opening our beer bottles in the cold weather.
Happy 2013 everyone and I look forward to the next race!

Phil

We happened to find the race listed on "Things to do in Toronto for NYE" while we were visiting from San Francisco, and it was like a little piece of home (well, home + snow). :) Costumed people were a lot of fun, and the volunteers, food, and atmosphere were all wonderful.

Great race! We had a lot of fun. Was worth the drive from NY!
Course was interesting. Be prepared for trail running! The planners did what they could but well... it is winter in the north east!
I'll repeat what someone said: Amazing goodie bag! I started running this year and have done about 10 races. This is the biggest and heaviest bag of goodies (and my first medal) of them all!
Food was great. Had to make sure I didn't eat too many cookies and snacks before hand. Hot soup is ALWAYS good after a cold run and Aroma Cafe's food is amazing!
If you are signing up for next year, get in there as soon as registration opens! That bottle of Prosecco is a nice bonus for being an early registrant for something we were going to do anyways!

Fun way to start the New Year. Organizers really tried to make it special. Sparklers at the starting line, fire works during the race, great pre- and post-race atmosphere. The hot Miso soup offered free by Raaw was especially welcome. Swag bag had some really good stuff that I am likely to buy myself in the future.

Although I did not run the race, I did partake as a volunteer and wanted to make a quick post! Nothing fell short at this event, everything was timed perfectly from the fireworks at midnite to the end of the race! All the runners on the course were so happy to be out running and enjoying all the amenties that the event offered! Aroma was a fabulous location to host everyone, and overall the event was a ton of fun! Looking forward to maybe racing in the next!!

Do you like running mixed with fun and great atmosphere ?
If so Try Toronto Mid nite New Years Eve.
it was super fun and a great vibe !! You get the best of both worlds .
A great 5 k race with loads of fun and a great party to celebrate the New Year and the race .
I have never been a big fan of new years eve but that has now changed !
I cant wait till this year is over so we can do it all over again !

thanks to the race organizers and volunteers as well as all the other runners for making this a special and amazing experience !!!

Super fun way to kick-start the new year! A stuffed swag bag, a unique course, fireworks at 4K, finish line right in the heart of Liberty Village, and amazing post-race food and drink. Great job team!

Loved it! What a great, healthy way to ring in the New Year. Very well organized, good crowd of enthusiastic participants, yummy treats...all positive. And the fire works were a fun bonus. Would definitely do it again. Thanks!

The question you need to ask yourself is why didn't I run this event? The course was challenging and unique. THe food was out of this world catered by the Aroma Cafe. The volunteers were AWESOME! I am going to repeat that the team of staff and volunteers that organized this event were ~~*AWESOME *~~.
Swag bag ---- not your regular swag.
Water Stations --- Beer, Champange, Water !
Cause.... The York Food Bank.
Fireworks, sparklers, hats, horns and overall good New Years cheer!
Over all folks.. resolve to do this run in 2014, it is worth every penny!

--- Rock on 2013 my personal best can only get better.

I loved this race, great way to ring in the new year. Well organized,great swag bag and loved the fireworks during the run, great atmosphere. The post race food was excellent and a nice touch with the Steam Whistle and or champagne at the end. All the volunteers were friendly and just a good vibe all around. I'll definitley do this race again next year

Awesome race! Loved the fireworks as we headed towards the CN Tower! Great crowd, great party. Definitely glad I had my headlamp. Loved the medal as well, and who can turn down a free beer!

See you next year!

My friend Mark and I ran this.It was especially challenging through the back alleys of liberty village..very spooky!!!

A very well run event that was a great kick-start to 2012! I can’t think of a better way to ring in the New Year than running through the streets of Toronto with fireworks lighting up the sky in the background. The pre- and post-race festivities were also one of a kind. I would definitely recommend this event to all runners out there!

Fantastic idea, love it! Evening running is so relaxing, looking forward to it!

Midnite NYE run was really fun. It was great to ring in the new year doing something I love to do - running - and sharing the experience with old friends and meeting new friends.
The race was well organized and the route was as Peter says - unique. There was never a dull moment.
I'm looking forward to next years event and plan to make this a yearly commitment.
The after party was great - great music, food and drinks!

I highly recommend that all runners put this on their calendar.

If you want to do something unique on New Year's Eve next year, this is a great option!

The race kit was terrific with excellent swag. The venue in Liberty Village before and after the race offered a terrific space to change...and also a place to stay warm before the race start. Kudos to the team that put the entire event together. Bravo on the inaugural Toronto Midnite New Year's Eve 5K!

I enjoyed myself.
Both race and party were well organized.
I only see this event (it's not just a race) getting a bigger and better.

Great race! Well organized for a first year event. I will be doing this one again for sure! The venue was great, and I love the fact that I got to meet Reid Coolsaet!

Looking forward to running and supporting Fort York Food Bank!!

I wish I lived in Toronto as I would love to do this race.... Any idea if there is something similar in Ottawa? I will have to check this out :)

Looking forward to this. Ringing in 2012 just as the fireworks start to fly over the city. Sounds amazing.

Sounds like a WICKED idea! and a great excuse to show that runners aren't boring! We need more ideas like this!