Murphy's Mission

Murphy's Mission

Murphy's Mission is a fundraising canicross and running event held on November 7, 2026 at Christie Lake Conservation Area in Dundas, Hamilton, Ontario. The event raises money for Hamilton Animal Services to support its adoption program, including medical care, behavioural support, enrichment supplies, and outreach.

The event is organized by Steeltown Canicross and honours Murphy, the first shelter dog the club took on a canicross run. Steeltown Canicross members have regularly taken more than 200 shelter dogs out on weekly runs over the past two years.

The course is a scenic 5 km loop at Christie Lake; 10 km participants complete two loops. Surfaces include grass, gravel, rolling hills, and double-track trails. The event will be chip timed. Gathering is at Beach Pavilion 2 and parking is free for participants and spectators.

Distances and event types:

• Single dog canicross 5 km
• Single dog canicross 10 km
• Two dog canicross 5 km
• Two dog canicross 10 km
• Human only run 5 km and 10 km
• 5 km fun walk with dogs on standard leash

Canicross categories require sport-specific gear: a padded waist belt, an elastic bungee line, and a suitable pulling or sport harness for the dog. Standard leashes and collars are not permitted in canicross. Trail etiquette rules require dogs to remain on leash, maintaining distance from other teams, picking up waste, and following passing and reactive dog guidelines. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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