Robbie Burns 8km Road Race

The Robbie Burns 8km Road Race has a long, cherished history in Burlington and the

surrounding region. Introduced in January 1979, the race has enjoyed 41 years of live

racing success with the most recent in-person event being staged on January 19, 2020.

The 42nd running was conducted virtually while the planned 43rd annual event was

unfortunately delayed and subsequently cancelled due to restrictions imposed by the

COVID-19 pandemic.

 Rich in Scottish tradition, Burlington style, runners throughout Southwestern Ontario mark

the Robbie Burns 8k Road Race on their calendars as the first organized race of the year. This race attracts runners of varying capabilities from cities throughout Southwestern Ontario including Elites and competitive racers in the regular and Master’s categories. Typical attendance ranges from 900 – 1200 participants. In 2020, of 901 registered participants there were 801 “runners” and 100 “walkers” – representing 89% and 11% of the field respectively.

 It may be snowy and blustery, but no matter how cold, there will still be many kilts in

attendance and a hot bowl of porridge waiting when participants cross the finish line. “When

you hear the bagpipes, it’s time to toe the line!”