SUMMIT 700 Is Back!
September 25th and 26th, 2021
****IMPORTANT EVENT UPDATE****
All courses have been adjusted
Click Here to see the updated 5.5K Loop Course Map
The following email was sent to all registrants Friday afternoon:
Due to the unprecedented amount of rain received earlier this week we’ve had to alter all the courses and remove all big climbs and descents. Blue Mountain has closed their hiking trails for the weekend and into next week until it becomes safe to open them once again. Our primary concern is the safety of participants and volunteers. Currently, it is impossible to drive any type of vehicle up, or down the many mountain trails due to the saturated ground. This inhibits our ability to safely remove injured runners from the course. Furthermore, the many descents have become treacherously slick and with abundant use by hundreds of runners they’d become unsafe. Our final concern is the integrity of the trails themselves and the damage that would occur to some of the less well-draining areas by hundreds of runners.
Participants will now be running a 5.5k course based at the top of the mountain using some of the better draining trails. 5k racers will run 1 loop, 10k will run 2 and 21k participants will run 4 loops. It is a beautiful stretch of trail rolling along the escarpment edge passing countless springs, streams and waterfalls and including many stunning views over Georgian Bay. The finish line pictures will be epic with Georgain Bay in all its glory in the background. A map of the new course can be seen here and a Strava route can be seen here. There will be an Aid Station at the 2.6k mark and one at the end of the loop, or 5.5k mark.
Participants will still pickup race kits at the South Base Lodge as originally planned. However, after picking up race kits you’ll need to drive to the top of the ski hill and park in one of the following 2 lots:
Participants should then walk, or jog over to the start/finish area that will be located just north of the Summit View Pavilion. Our staggered start plan will remain in place.
We know this news will be disappointing as I’m sure you’ve all been training for a vertically challenging mountain running experience. However, we simply can’t safely host the event as originally planned.
As an added bonus, Blue Mountain will now be providing all participants with a “Play as you Go” pass good for use on one of the many attractions at Blue Mountain. These will be provided at race-kit pick-up.
We’re still super-excited to bring the trail running community together at Blue Mountain for a fantastic trail running experience and we look forward to seeing you all this weekend. Please save any questions for race-kit pickup tomorrow as we’re extremely busy implementing the event adjustments.
All the best,
Bob Miller
Event Director
Summit 700 Trail Runs – presented by Salomon
Summit 700 is an epic trail/mountain running experience flowing through Blue Mountain Resort’s challenging single-track trail network. Each course will tackle a 700ft ascent of the Niagara Escarpment in addition to endless; rock hopping, creek crossing, root dodging, up & down sublime forest running!
In order to host the event in September 2021 we anticipate many Covid-19 mitigation strategies will need to be in place. Our goal is to host a safe and fun event while adhering to all public health guidelines concerning outdoor gatherings and following Athletics Ontario's Road & Trail Risk Assessment and Safety Recommendations. If the event can't be hosted as detailed below due to worsening developments with Covid-19, or participants don't feel comfortable running at that time, entries can be deferred to the 2022 event. If conditions improve with loosening Covid 19 restrictions, we'll adjust the protocols and offer a proper mass-start event.
2021 Event Highlights
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5K and 10K runs to take place on Saturday September 25th, 2021
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21K run to take place on Sunday September 26th, 2021
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A staggered start format will be implemented to ensure minimal group gatherings
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Re-designed courses taking in the best trails at Blue Mountain Resort's revamped and expeanded hiking trail network
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Post-Race Celebrations encouraged in a distanced manner within the world-renowned Blue Mountain Village!
In Support of:
RACE INFO
Date: September 25th & 26th, 2021
Location: Blue Mountain Resort, Ontario, Canada
(In 2021 the event will be based out of the South Base Lodge)
Distances: 5K, 10K, 21K
Schedule:
Saturday September 25th, 2021 - 5K and 10K runs
7:00am-9:45am 5K Race Kit Pick-Up
8:00am-9:45am 5K Racers Start
8:30am-11:15am 5K Racers Finish
11:30am-2:30pm 10K Race Kit Pick-Up
12:30pm-2:30pm 10K Racers Start
1:25pm-5:00pm 10K Racers Finish
Sunday September 26th, 2021 - 21K run
7:00am-10:30am 21K Race Kit Pick-Up
8:00am-10:30am 21K Racers Start
9:50am-2:30pm 21K Racers Finish
Important Race Kit Pick-Up and Start Instructions.
We need all participants to aim to show up no earlier than 1-hour before their designated "start window". This is to ensure an orderly and uncrowded flow of participants through the kit pick-up process. Upon arrival, participants will need to show;
1. ID and Proof of Vaccination. In accordance with the Ontario Governments Proof of Vaccination program, as well as our governing body, Athetics Ontario's new requirement, Summit 700 will require all participants to show a valid ID and Proof of Vaccination to participate in the event. If you will be unable to meet this requirement, please email info@summit700.com and we can defer your entry to 2022. As per the government mandate participants must be 14 days past their 2nd dose. Furthermore, a negative Covid test is not acceptable. Ontarians can download their proof of vaccination pdf's at this link.
2. Green check-mark screen from the Canatrace Covid Prescreen Test.
Volunteers will then check that your waiver has been filled out and signed online. Then you may proceed into the South Base Lodge (with masks on) to pick-up your race kit. After picking up race kits, we advise returning to vehicles to prepare bib numbers on jerseys and then warming up along Gord Canning Drive. Please do not proceed to the Start Area/Coral until your designated start window. Participants will start individually in 30 second intervals with 20 runners assigned to each 10 minute start window.
Important Race Kit Pick-Up Links:
1. Online Waiver (needs to be filled and signed prior to arrival at the host site)
2. Canatrace Covid Prescreen Test (needs to be executed on the day you attend the event and the green check-mark screen needs to be shown to event staff upon arrival)
Prizing (See the Results Link - available week of event) Prizing will be available for pick-up after each event: 1st, 2nd & 3rd overall in each distance, plus King and Queen of the mountain for the Summit 700 Hill Climb for each race distance. Age Groups will be recognized in results (age as of Sept 26th, 2021): 14 and under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70 and over. The minimum age for the 5K is 12, the 10K is 14 and the 21K is 16. Age limits were determined using Athletics Canada GUIDELINES FOR THE INCLUSION OF CHILDREN AND YOUTH IN ROAD RACES.
Covid 19 Protocols/Adjustments:
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5K & 10K runs to take place on Saturday September 25th, 2021
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21K run to take place on Sunday September 26th, 2021
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A staggered-start format will be implemented and each participant will select a "start-window" when they must begin their run on an individual basis. Start windows will be "seeded" with faster runners starting earlier to reduce congestion/passing while on course.
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Masks must be worn at race-kit pick-up and in the start coral. Masks can be removed once across the start line. Masks will then be carried with participants while running.
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Masks placed back on once across the finish line.
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Passing/drafting rule implemented: No drafting behind a runner ahead with 2m distance maintained. When passing, person overtaking informs person ahead of desire to pass in an area where 2m distance can be maintained.
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Participants will be directed to depart the finish area shortly after crossing the finish line.
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All paperwork (waiver and image release), including a new Covid Self-Assessment Pre-Screening Test will be filled out online before arriving at the host site.
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Aid Station locations will be reduced and participants will need to carry their own drinking vessel for refill at aid stations. No cups or food/gels will be provided, only water and sports drink.
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Spectators are not permitted in the Start/Finish area. There will be locations along the course where spectators could watch.
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Pre and Post race socializing near the Start/Finish area will be monitored and discouraged in order to reduce the size of the outdoor group gathering. Participants are encouraged to celebrate their achievements in Blue Mountain Village.
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Awards ceremonies will be cancelled with awards mailed the week after the event.
Aid Stations. In 2021 we'll only have water and sports drink available at Aid Stations. The event will be cupless and participants will need to carry their own vessel for drinks. If looking to refill at an aid station, volunteers with PPE will have handheld jugs with water, or sports drink and will pour them into your vessel that you've pre-opened.
5K course Aid Station at the 1.8km mark
10K course Aid Stations at the; 1.8km, 5km, 7.5km marks
21k course Aid Stations at the: 1.8k, 4.6k, 10.2k, 16k, 18.5k marks
Course Cut-Offs:
10K Course Cut-Off at 3:30pm at the 5km mark
21K Course Cut-Off's at 1:30pm at the 16km mark
Spectators: Spectators are not permitted in the Start/Finish Areas. Spectators are free to view participants along the courses at their discretion. Spectators on Blue Mountains trail system are required to have a valid pass. To help spectators find their way around the course consider downloading Blue Mountain's new GPS powered smartphone app. Search for Blue Mountain in the Apple App Store, or Google Play.
Parking Info: Park at the P1 South Lot. In 2021 we'll be based at the South Base Lodge right across the road from the P1 South Lot.
Accommodations: Blue Mountain has numerous lodging options available
To access a 30% discount off Blue Mountain lodging, please book before June 30th, 2021 using promo code GB00004828. A 2-night minimum stay is required if the reservation includes the night of Saturday, July 10th. Guests can call Blue Mountain Resort at 1-833-583-2583, referencing Summit 700 or promo code GB00004828. Or book online at https://bmrbooking.bluemountain.ca/, entering GB00004828 in the 'group/promo code' link. This discount is offered to Summit 700 competitors and their support teams only. Click here to view full terms and conditions.
COURSES
2021 Course Maps and Descriptions
2021 5K Map & Route Description
(click for full version)
2021 10K Map & Route Description
(click for full version)
2021 21K Map & Route Description
(click for full version)
REGISTER
All registrations occur online by credit card with our secure provider: RaceRoster.com
Entry Fees (not including taxes & online processing fees):
21K 6K & 10K
Super-Early by Jan. 3rd, 2020 $49 $39
Early-Bird by April 15th, 2021 $59 $49
Regular by August 25th, 2021 $69 $59
Late by September 22nd, 2021 $79 $69
No Race-Day entries
Online Registration Closes Wednesday September 22, 2021 at 11:59pm.
Entry Includes: Event T-Shirt, Chip-Timing (course and hill climb), Finishers Medal, Sponsor Swag Bag at Finish, Blue Mountain Trail Pass
Refund Details: There will be no refunds for any reason, however participants can transfer their entry to another individual for a fee of $1.95 plus tax. There are no refunds due to inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances that would place participants, volunteers, or staff at risk.
Transfer Details: Registrants can transfer into another race distance (if there is still space available) by accessing their RaceRoster profile. There is a fee of $1.95 plus tax for all transfers. If registrants are transferring to a longer distance additional fees will apply. If registrants are transferring to a shorter distance there will be no refunds on the price difference. Registrants are also permitted to transfer their entry to another individual for a fee of $1.95 plus tax. All transfers must occur by Wednesday Sept 22, 2021 at 11:59pm.
Deferrals: 2020 and 2021 entries can be deferred to the 2022 event. Requests for deferrals must be received by Tuesday August 31, 2021.
VOLUNTEER
Volunteers are crucial to the success of any outdoor, endurance sporting event. Without their time, effort, encouragement and dedication these events simply wouldn’t be possible. If you’re interested in volunteering send Bob an email @ info@summit700.com and let him know what role you’d be interested in tackling. If you have friends or family coming with you please consider asking if they’d be interested in helping as a volunteer. All volunteers receive an event T-shirt, a BBQ Lunch and our everlasting gratitude.
Volunteer Roles:
Saturday September 25th, 2021:
Race Kit Pick-Up: 7:00am-5:00pm (broken into shifts)
Aid Station: 7:30am-5:00pm (broken into shifts)
5K Pre-Runner: 6:30am-7:30am
5K Sweep Runner: 9:45am-11:00am
10K Pre-Runner: 11:30am-12:30pm
10K Sweep Runner: 2:30pm-5:00pm
Course Marshals: 7:30am-5:00pm (broken into shifts)
Finish Line: 8:00am-5:00pm (broken into shifts)
Sunday September 26th, 2021:
Race Kit Pick-Up: 7:00am-2:30pm
Aid Station: 7:30am-2:30pm
21K Pre-Runner: 6:00am-7:30am
21K Sweep Runner: 10:30am-2:30pm
Course Marshals: 7:30am-2:30pm
Finish Line: 8:00am-2:30pm
FAQ
Q. I registered for the 2020 event that was cancelled due to Covid 19, what happened to my entry?
A. All entries from the 2020 cancelled event have been automatically transferred to the 2021 event. If a participant does not wish to attend the 2021 event, their entry can be deferred to the 2022 event.
Q. Are headphones permitted?
A. Headphones are not permitted in the event to allow for better communication amongst participants.
Q. What will be available at the Aid Stations?
A. Aid Stations will have water and sports drink available in 2021. Food items have been removed to reduce high-touchpoint areas due to Covid 19. There will be no cups at the aid stations and participants are now required to carry their own drink cup, bottle, flask or bladder. Volunteers wearing PPE will have handheld jugs available to re-fill participant drinking vessels.
Q. Can I have someone else pick-up my race kit?
A. No, in 2021 only the runner participating can pick up their race kit on the day they are scheduled to run.
Q. Can the courses be pre-run before the event?
A. Yes, courses can be pre-run. We're aiming to have the courses pre-marked in the weeks leading up to the event. Anyone on Blue Mountain Resort trails must have a valid trail pass. For details on accessing Blue Mountain's trails please see their summer trail map at this link.
Q. Are results based on total time or just the climb?
A. There will be results for both the total time and the climb. The main race will be the full distance runs (5K, 10K and 21K) where we'll provide prizing for the top 3 men and women at each distance. However, within each race distance we'll also be tracking the hill climb times and will award 1st prize (King and Queen of the mountain) for the climb alone, but again for each race distance, so we'll have 3 Kings and Queens.
Q. How do I transfer my entry?
A. Please see this link for an explanation on how to transfer your entry (either to a shorter/longer distance ("sub-event"), or to another person).
Q. How do I edit my registration details?
A. Please see this link for an explanation on how to edit your registration details. Note, only a few registration details can be edited, such as your "start window" selection and email address.
Q. Are hiking poles permitted?
A. Yes
CONTACT
Past Newsletters:
Send us an email:
In Support of:
