Prime Minister Mark Carney surprised spectators and participants alike over the weekend when he took part in the Haliburton Forest Trail Race, an annual long-distance event held in southern Ontario. Carney ran the 26-kilometre course, known for its steep hills and rocky terrain, finishing 58th out of 120 runners with a time of just over three hours and 45 minutes.
The Haliburton Forest Trail Race, located about 160 kilometres north of Toronto, is widely regarded as one of Canada’s most challenging trail events. Race director Tegan Legge described the course as “a crushing run,” featuring demanding climbs and even sections where runners must scramble up rock faces.
Volunteers and onlookers said they were both surprised and delighted by Carney’s participation. Agnes Jung, stationed at an aid stop, recalled giving the Prime Minister directions early in the race and later capturing a short video of him on his return loop. Carney explained that he had entered the race to support his wife, who was also competing and celebrating her birthday. Jung noted that Carney appeared strong and comfortable on the course, saying, “He looked like an experienced trail runner for sure. These trails are really no joke.”
Gary Black, another volunteer, described how the Prime Minister mingled with runners and spectators after completing the race. “After running 26k and supporting his wife, he hung around the finish line for about an hour, chatting with people, taking photos, and engaging with everyone. Everyone thought he was super nice,” he said.
Carney’s participation adds to his history as a recreational runner. Past reports show that he ran the Ottawa Race Weekend half-marathon in 2013 and the London Marathon in 2015, and he was seen supporting athletes at the Ottawa International Marathon earlier this year.
The Prime Minister’s low-key appearance at Haliburton showcased both his personal commitment to fitness and his willingness to connect with Canadians in unexpected places — not on the campaign trail, but on the running trail.