February can be a cold and miserable time to run outdoors on the prairies — which is exactly why the organizers of the Deadcold Run consistently target the month for the event.
The DeadCold franchise (which celebrates conquering winter) started in Edmonton in 2014, before expanding to Calgary in 2018 and Saskatoon in 2019. This marks the return of the Saskatoon event after an extended pause following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The event is expected to bring a “high energy,” vibe, with organizers “happy and proud to highlight how tough runners are in the winter,” says organizer Trevor Soll.
Here’s what you need to know about the run.
What: Deadcold Run is a winter road race featuring 1km, 5km, 10km and 21km distances. Participants receive a custom finisher medal, race shirt (if they sign up before Jan. 24), chip timing (manual timing if there are not enough participants) and post-race snacks. This will be the third year the race has been held in Saskatoon. It is organized by Multisportscanada, which has organized the Heartbeat Run and First Responders Half Marathon events in Saskatoon in the past.
When: The event takes place Sunday. Feb. 9. For those who wonder about such things, the weather last year on Feb. 9 reached a balmy high of -5C with some flurries and winds at 15km per hour.
Where: The event starts at Meewasin Park. View course maps for all distances here.
Why: For those not inclined to travel, the DeadCold Run may be the first local racing opportunity of 2025. Plus, what better way to showcase to your friends, family, colleagues and complete strangers that you are tough?
February is heart month and proceeds of the event will support the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundations Mending Little Hearts Fund of Saskatchewan, which aids children with heart conditions in the province. Contributions to this organization provide necessary at-home medical equipment to families that need it, support local research and go toward family support services.
How to register: Register online via Race Roster.
