Port Hardy Recreation has announced Sunday, June 1 as the official return date for the annual Hardy Hustle 10k/half marathon.
Last year the race had 102 runners sign up from all over Vancouver Island to compete in the 10k and half marathon. Alexander Biah won the 10k with a lightning quick time of 41:26:01, while Port Hardy councillor Brian Texmo defended his half marathon title in strong fashion by finishing first overall once again, posting a time of 1:36:45:77.
The North Island Gazette interviewed Sara Klatt, Port Hardy Recreation's Community Outreach Coordinator about the race this year, which can be read in full below.
This is the third year in a row the Hardy Hustle has been held, any changes/improvements to the 10k/half marathon runs this year?
We’re so excited for the third annual Hardy Hustle! This year, we’re keeping the route similar but making some refinements to help it flow a bit more naturally - showcasing the best of our beautiful town and waterfront. Half Marathon runners will receive a high-quality sublimated tech tee featuring a breathtaking photo of downtown Port Hardy at sunset, captured by Brian Texmo of North Island Wild Photography. 10km runners will receive a duffle bag (with the option to upgrade with an additional charge or purchase a tech tee). To create a smoother race-day experience, we’re splitting the 10km and Half Marathon start times, allowing more participants to finish together. The racecourse will officially close at 2:00 PM, meaning any Half Marathoners finishing after the 4-hour mark won’t be counted as official finishers.
What do you feel the Hardy Hustle brings specifically to Port Hardy and why is it an important event to hold every year?
The Hardy Hustle brings people to Port Hardy from all over Vancouver Island and beyond. We welcome runners who have never visited before, and many leave with a greater appreciation for our beautiful community. Some runner's said that they've attended races all over the Island, the spirit of our rec staff and volunteers made the Hardy Hustle one of the most enjoyable events they’ve experienced. Hosting the Hustle annually helps us build lasting connections with participants, volunteers, and the generous local businesses that support us. As the only Half Marathon on the North Island, skipping a year could mean losing the momentum, enthusiasm, and relationships we’ve worked hard to build. We’re proud to keep this tradition going and can’t wait to see it grow even more.
As the organizer of the Hardy Hustle this year, what's your favourite thing about the Hustle?
This will be the first year that I won’t be running in the Hardy Hustle, as I’ll be stepping into the role as director instead. While I’ll miss being out on the course on race day, I’m so excited to welcome everyone to do what I love—RUN! My favourite part of the Hustle, hands down, is the incredible energy and excitement of the runners and the warm, welcoming atmosphere created by our amazing staff and volunteers. I love how runners cheer each other on, exchange big smiles, give a thumbs-up, or even a high-five as they pass—it’s such a supportive and uplifting event. The Hustle makes everyone, from beginners to experienced runners, truly feel like they belong. I love it!
Where can people sign up for the hustle?
Online: https://app.univerusrec.com/porthardyrecreationpub/index.asp
In person at Port Hardy Recreation: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm
Phone 250.949.6686 ext. 201
Anything you want to mention about the race I haven't asked?
One important thing to mention is that our custom tech tees and duffle bags need to be ordered early to ensure they arrive in time for the Hustle. To be guaranteed swag, runners must register before April 18. We’ll order some extras that will be available on a first-come, first-served basis—so don’t wait, sign up today!
