Runners will descend on North Saanich Jan. 12 for the Harriers Pioneer 8K, the first race in the 2025 Vancouver Island Race Series.
Renowned for its flat, fast course and storied history, the Pioneer 8K has become synonymous with record-breaking achievements and personal milestones.
Over the years, it has hosted numerous Canadian road race records. Highlights include Natasha Wodak’s 2013 national record of 25:28 and Carey Nelson’s men’s record of 22:58, set in 1985. Nelson, a former University of Victoria Vikes standout, later represented Canada at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
This year’s race could feature a competitive field of female athletes. Seven-time Pioneer 8K champion Natasha Wodak is likely to compete, alongside Genevieve Lalonde, a former Olympian and Canadian record holder in the 3,000-metre steeplechase and Gabriella DeBues-Stafford, a seven-time Canadian record holder.
While the race draws elite athletes, it remains a community-oriented event, welcoming runners of all abilities
For Victoria runner Sean Mitchell, the Pioneer 8K is a staple on his annual racing calendar. This year marks his seventh attempt at the event.
“The Pioneer 8K is unique for a couple of reasons – the time of year, and the distance," Mitchell said.
The race’s early-January timing levels the playing field for those not yet training for spring marathons. The mid-range distance, shorter than a 10K but longer than a 5K, demands strategic pacing. Mitchell cautions against starting too fast, emphasizing that pacing is key.
The first 1.5 to 2 kilometres are flat, allowing runners to settle in before climbing between 2K and 3K. Rolling terrain from 3K to 5K challenges endurance before a mostly downhill stretch to the finish. Mitchell advises starting conservatively and saving energy for a strong push after the 5K mark.
The race starts at 11:30 a.m. on Jan. 12, with runners setting off from the Tourist Information Centre near the Patricia Bay Highway. The 8-kilometre route loops around the scenic area near Victoria International Airport. Spectators can enjoy prime viewing spots along Mills Road and West Saanich Road. Participants can register online at islandraceseries.com.
Runners should prepare for cool, breezy conditions, with temperatures expected to hover around 6 C.
Organized by the Prairie Inn Harriers, the Pioneer 8K isn’t just about running — it’s also about giving back. Proceeds from the event support local charities and youth athletic programs.
“The Prairie Inn Harriers Running Club has contributed over a quarter of a million dollars to bursaries at UVic and Camosun College. The series recently adopted KidSport BC as its charity of choice — such a great cause,” said Kelsall.
The Pioneer 8K kicks off the 2025 Island Race Series, which continues Jan. 26 with the Cobble Hill 10K. That race will also double as the B.C. 10K championship. Other events in the series include: Bastion 12K (Lantzville, Feb. 9); Hatley Castle 8K (Colwood), Feb. 23); Westcoast Sooke 10K (March 9); Comox Valley RV Half-Marathon (Courtenay, March 23); McLean Mill 10K (Alberni Valley, April 6); Synergy Health Bazan Bay 5K (North Saanich, April 13).
