Sherwood Park’s Strathcona Athletic Park will once again host one of Canada’s top ultramarathon events when Survivorfest returns from June 12 to 14, 2026. The seventh annual gathering features 6-hour, 12-hour, and 24-hour timed races on a 400-metre track loop, along with relay options and a Kids Race for ages 4 to 17. This year, it also serves as the 2026 ACU Canadian 24-Hour National Championship, drawing competitors from across the country and beyond.
The event carries a Bronze Label from the International Association of Ultrarunners, meaning it meets global standards for course measurement, timing, and safety. Since launching in 2019, Survivorfest has seen 15 international records set on its track, cementing its reputation as a destination for elite athletes. “It’s become a place where people can test themselves at a really high level,” said Michael Bernas, the event’s virtual coordinator. “At the same time, it’s still very welcoming for someone just looking to complete their first ultra.”
Founder and race director Laura Sherrer-Townsend, a Sherwood Park mother of four and sexual assault survivor, started the event with the tagline “Celebration of Strength, Sacrifice and Survival.” All proceeds support the Saffron Centre, a local non-profit that provides counselling and services for sexual violence survivors. Since 2019, the event has raised more than $37,000 for the centre, which helped 795 people in 2024 alone.
In 2024, Vancouver’s Etienne Durocher completed 213.28 kilometres in 24 hours to win the national championship. That same year, 67-year-old Wayne Gaudet of Exshaw, Alberta set four Canadian ultra records in the M65-70 category. The 2025 event welcomed 116 athletes, and the Kids Race saw 37 young runners, reflecting growing community interest.
Spectators are welcome to come watch the endurance races and cheer on participants of all ages and abilities. Full event details are available at survivorfest24.com.
