In case you missed it, 2025 Ottawa Race Weekend smashed records, with 36,000 runners lacing up across the six distances. But it wasn’t just the athletes bringing the energy; thousands of spectators packed the streets of the nation’s capital, including a surprise celebrity appearance from Prime Minister Mark Carney, cheering on runners as they passed through the grounds of Rideau Hall.
Big city marathons always come with great signs, and Ottawa didn’t disappoint. As race director Mike Vieira put it: “Our participants and spectators are incredible… they showed up with huge energy and positivity.” From fun one-liners to heartfelt words of encouragement, spectators brought their A-game with written messages that delivered just the right boost at just the right time.
Here are five favourite signs from this year’s race.
The O Train would’ve DNF’d
Sound advice at 35km
As expected in the nation’s capital
A throwback to the running Renaissance era
What else are Canadian hockey fans supposed to do in May?
