Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper.

  • More than 550 participants and supporters attended the 20th annual CFB Esquimalt Navy Run.
  • The event featured a new Work Point race route, kids’ activities, and a free pancake breakfast.
  • Community members, military personnel, sponsors, and families came together to celebrate two decades of Navy Run tradition.

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More than 550 participants and supporters filled Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt this weekend as the 20th anniversary Navy Run returned with a new starting location at Work Point. For the first time, event registrants took on a new scenic race route, a change that quickly became a highlight of the day. Set alongside a waterfront backdrop and the local Esquimalt community, the course brought both challenge and beauty as participants noted that the shift added fresh energy.

Sun Oystrek celebrates her 63rd birthday at the 20th annual CFB Esquimalt Navy Run on June 20. Photo: Joseph Camilleri

“Watching everyone come together with a positive attitude and such good energy was a highlight of the day,” said Gillian Larsen, Co-Race Director of Navy Run and Personnel Support Programs (PSP) Manager Community Recreation. “We also had a special naval addition this year with the ringing of the bell to officially start the run – that felt really meaningful.”

CFB Esquimalt leadership and community members also took part in the race, including Captain(Navy) (Capt(Navy)) Whiteside, Commander of CFB Esquimalt, and Mayor of the Township of Esquimalt Barbara Desjardins, reinforcing the strong connection between the base and surrounding community. On the course, both the 5K and 10K race options saw strong performances, with medals awarded to the top three finishers in each category. (Podium finishers listed below.)

Beyond the race itself, a free pancake breakfast was served by the Esquimalt Military Family Resource Centre (EMFRC). This new addition to the event fueled participants and families with over 1,000 pancakes. The family-focused atmosphere was central to the Navy Run. A dedicated kids’ run saw young participants cross the finish line to receive medals of their own, while free childcare and a bouncy castle kept energy high and accessible for families attending the event. Peri, the official PSP Recreation mascot, added to the celebration, cheering runners on and engaging with all throughout the morning. A range of sponsors and local businesses were also set up throughout the outdoor event space, offering participants a chance to connect and linger with key community participants.

2026 Kids Run participants race through the course on June 20 during the 20th annual CFB Esquimalt Navy Run. Photo: Joseph Camilleri

Marking its 20th annual edition, this year’s Navy Run also included some special touches that helped celebrate the milestone in a tangible way for participants. All registrants received complimentary commemorative socks provided in partnership with OUTWAY, which quickly became a visible feature of the day as participants crossed the finish line. Registrants also had the option to purchase customdesigned 20th anniversary medals created by ‘N Ember, which proved to be a popular takehome keepsake beyond the finisher experience. From its beginnings in 2006 to its 20th anniversary in 2026, the annual CFB Esquimalt Navy Run continues to remain rooted with a sense of community that has only strengthened with every finish line.

Thank you for moving with us.

The event was made possible by our generous sponsors. Thank you for your continued support.

 Thank you to our community partners for your support:  Seeshell Consulting, MAPLE3, OUTWAY, Domino’s Pizza, Startline Timing, and Serious Coffee and Tea. 

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Bravo Zulu to those who finished on the podium.

5K Winners

Mens

  • 1st Overall: Neil Dawe — 0:15:54  
  • 2nd Overall: Liam Gilchrist — 0:17:36  
  • 3rd Overall: Geoff McKinnon — 0:18:08  

Womens

  • 1st Overall: Aisling Wydysh — 0:18:46  
  • 2nd Overall: Katrina Potts — 0:20:36  
  • 3rd Overall: Gillian Mills — 0:22:32  

10K Winners

Mens

  • 1st Overall: Thomas Andersen, 0:34:21  
  • 2nd Overall: Adrian Thow, 0:36:02  
  • 3rd Overall: Clarence Choy, 0:37:00  

Womens

  • 1st Overall: Cara Macrae, 0:43:19  
  • 2nd Overall: Margreet Dietz, 0:43:54  
  • 3rd Overall: Nicole Gros, 0:44:26 

UNIT CHALLENGE WINNERS

  • Reigning and defending champions of the Small Unit: CDAO South Africa
  • Reigning and defending champions of the Medium Unit: CANSUBFOR
  • Reigning champions of the Large Unit: Base LogisticS