About us

After creating and organizing the Pointe to Pointe 10k Run for the National Ballet of Canada in Toronto in the mid 1980’s, Running First Ltd. was started in 1994 by Jay Glassman. Since then, it has organized the Toronto Marathon, Collingwood Half Marathon, Holly Jolly Fun Run, and the Toronto 5K, and has consulted on a variety of events spanning the globe.

We continue to organize Toronto’s premier running events with the philosophy that the runner comes first. Our events are grass roots and “runner” friendly as we are continually driven by the thousands of inspiring stories our participants have shared with us over the years. With a strong focus on giving back to our community, we have helped to raise both awareness and dollars for many causes.

Our events are staffed by a dedicated group of people who do their best to offer our participants the best experience possible. Much of this works begins immediately following the previous year’s event as we dissect the event and work to make it better the following year. Many of the crew out there race day are volunteers; (many of whom have been with us for over 15 years) and we will continue to listen to our participants so that we can continue to improve our events. Remember that when you’re picking up your shirt or bib at the expo, placing your bag on our truck at the start, taking Gatorade at an Aid Station, or getting that much needed massage at the finish line……these are all volunteers! We couldn’t do it without them. Be sure to thank them!

It may be a cliché, but it is very true – you can’t put on a great event without volunteers. Wanting to volunteer? Contact us:

Our Committee

There are key individuals which help us organize our events. These people serve key management roles, largely voluntarily.