Orientation Runs

Date and Location

Orientation runs are a great way to meet fellow racers, add some miles to your training plan, and preview sections of the race course. There will be 2 orientation runs offered in July (subject to snow melt!) on the weekend of July 18-19.

Runners should have sufficient water and calories as no aid stations are provided for orientation runs.

Saturday July 18 - We will be doing an out-and-back section of the Heather trail, meeting at the parking area at Blackwall Peak (off Highway 3, across the road from Manning Park Resort). Distance is up to 44 km, although you may turn back at any point depending on what your training plan calls for. Start time 8:30 AM.

Saturday Meeting location - https://maps.app.goo.gl/gSXfjbbkvkyp7cWZ8

Sunday July 19 - Skyline I Trail from the Strawberry Flats Warming Hut (up Gibson Pass Road, near the Manning Park Ski Hill), finishing at Lightning Lake Day Use Area (the final stretch of the race). 19 km total. Start time 8:30 AM.

Sunday Meeting location - https://maps.app.goo.gl/wyNrdupALoChxEnm7

New for 2026!

We have seen an increase in desire for more community surrounding the race, and we have responded! New for 2026 we are offering a fully catered pasta buffet dinner option with included Q&A session (more info below). Dinner is $45 plus tax, and MUST be pre-booked before July 10 through the Ultra Signup store. Location will be at Manning Park Resort, details to follow. Space is limited so if you know you want to attend, don't wait! Gluten-friendly and vegan options are available.

In addition to an opportunity for you to meet and socialize with other racers and enjoy a delicious meal, there will be a Q&A session with previous Fat Doggers Jenny Quilty and Ihor Verys following dinner. Jenny is our current women’s 120 Mile course record holder (set in 2025), won the 2022 Doi Inthanon 100 Mile, has earned many other podium finishes, and will be racing the 120 Mile again in 2026. She is a professional run coach with Pacific Pines Running Co, and very accomplished ultra runner. Ihor is our current men’s 120 Mile course record holder (set in 2022), went on to win and finish the 2024 Barkley Marathon, and holds the Canadian Backyard Ultra record at an incredible 107 hours — along with many other impressive wins. Both have generously offered to come and talk to us about their running journeys, answer any questions you have, and what it takes for a successful Fat Dog finish!

Doors open at 5:30 pm, and dinner will be served at 6:00 pm. Q&A session will begin at 7:00 pm and the formal portion will end at 8:00 pm. The event will fully wrap up by 9:00 pm to give you ample time to get some rest before the Sunday morning run.