First Half
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2026 First Half
The First Half takes place on February 8, 2026 in Vancouver, British Columbia, with a start address listed as 181 Roundhouse Mews. Entries are capped at 2,000 runners and online registration is shown as closed; runners who meet competitive qualifier times may still be eligible to enter.
The event uses an out and back course and is positioned as a build-up event to the Vancouver Marathon. Its history dates to 1988 when the Vancouver International Marathon Society asked Pacific Road Runners to host a half marathon as a marathon buildup.
Race kit options include an exclusive First Half long-sleeve tech tee or an option to go green without the tee. The kit also includes a $25 Forerunners gift card (minimum $75 spend) and a finisher medal presented at the finish line. A limited quantity of bonus tech shirts is available; choosing the green option reduces registration fees.
The First Half supports Variety The Children’s Charity and participants have raised over $800,000 for the charity to date. The event will follow Provincial Health Orders in effect at the time of the race. Race registrations are non-refundable and non-transferable according to RUNVAN policies.
The First Half is the first race in the RUNVAN race series. A Grand Slam prize is available for runners who complete the First Half, BMO Vancouver Marathon, Granville Island Turkey Trot and Great Trek in the same calendar year. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
