To wrap up this issue of Running Insight we searched for a special running event to highlight and found it in the iconic Beneva Quebec City Marathon, which is celebrating a quarter-century of passion and challenge when it takes place this October. Renowned for its “postcard” course, which highlights the most beautiful jewels of Quebec City, the event has evolved over the years to become a true destination marathon, promoting the city far beyond Canadian borders. 

To mark this anniversary, what better way to relive the event’s history and discover the festivities planned for this 25th edition.

An Historic Course

The Quebec City Marathon adventure began in 1998 with Denis Therrien, founder of the pioneering Courir à Québec circuit. Inspired by his participation in the Philadelphia Marathon in 1996, he imagined an event capable of making Quebec City a must-see destination for runners from all over the world. In the first edition, some 2000 participants took part in the 42 km event, solo or in teams of two, three or four. 

Then Versus Now

Formerly known as the “Marathon des Deux Rives,” the event started from Lévis, on the other side of the St. Lawrence River, with a course that crossed the Quebec Bridge and ran down Boulevard Champlain. 

Today, the Beneva Quebec City Marathon presented by Montellier starts at Place Jean-Béliveau and offers a full range of events: the 2K Youth Race, the Beneva Health 5K, the Sports Experts 10K, the 21.1K Shop Santé presented by WKND 91.9 and the Beneva 42.2K. 

The course crosses nine neighborhoods and three boroughs, passing by many of Quebec City’s landmarks, including the famous Château Frontenac, the Plains of Abraham and the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, all in the radiance of autumn colors.

In 2023, runners from over 20 countries took part, affirming the Quebec City Marathon’s international status.

A 25th Edition With Festivities

This year, from October 4–6, more than 13,500 runners are expected to take part in the 25th edition of the Beneva Quebec City Marathon presented by Montellier, which promises to be a memorable event. 

For the occasion, Quebec City will vibrate to the rhythm of the festivities, with special entertainment spread throughout the city and on Place Jean-Béliveau, the starting point for all races.

This year, the GO Week, which runs from September 30 to October 5, will feature five days of free activities leading up to the event. 

Among the flagship events, the Expo Je Cours Qc, a must for all running enthusiasts, will be held on October 4, 5 at the ExpoCité Exhibition Centre. This exhibition will bring together the main players in the Quebec running scene, with conferences, workshops and demonstrations.

Whether you’re a running enthusiast or simply curious, there’s something for everyone at this 25th edition. n