Santa Speedo Run
It started in 2005.
It was originally a whimsical idea conjured up in a fit of dementia.
It’s a fun run with the only objective being to raise as much money as possible to the Toronto Hospital for Sick Children Toys and Games fund.
It’s a chance to make a complete and utter spectacle of yourself.
So what does one wear?
We're glad you asked.
There’s a reason it’s called the Santa Speedo Run. We ask you to wear a red, white or green Speedo for the event. The good folks at Speedo Canada are very kindly providing men's and women's Speedo’s (Speedoes? Speedos’? Speedii?)
While we should have a good number on hand, it’s a first-come, first-served kind of thing. We don’t guarantee sizes. You’ll also also get a nifty pair of Fox River Socks.
How many people get Speedo's? Good question. We have no idea, it depends how many Speedo Claus bring us.
What you’ll need:
1. Pledges (cash and cheques)
2. Speedo (in case you're NOT one of the first runners to get a complimentary Speedo). We suggest wearing it under your street clothes.
3. Running shoes
4. Seasonal attire (Santa hat, beards, antlers, reindeer noses, etc)
5. Knapsack/gym bag to keep your street clothes in, while we’re on the run (not responsible for lost or stolen items, though it’s likely the fault of those on the “naughty” list)
A few questions and answers, for those who tend to over think things:
Q. It’s supposed to be -20 that day! Are we still running?
A. Yes, though I imagine we’ll be running a bit quicker.
Q. I’m shy about being out in public in a Speedo. Do I have to wear one?
A. None of the organizers of the run are what one might consider “model material”, yet here we are. The idea of the run is to raise money for a good cause through silliness, so everyone running must wear a Speedo, but no one will be judging. Or really caring, for that matter.
Q. Can women participate too?
A. Absolutely. Public asininity doesn’t discriminate based on gender (exempli gratia, insert your favourite female celebrity). However, like everyone else, you must run in a Speedo (full-piece or two-piece).
Q. I chafe in the cold. Any suggestions?
A. Think warm thoughts.
Q. I don’t celebrate Christmas, and celebrate Channukah/Kwanza/Festivus instead. Can I still participate?
A. The Toronto Santa Speedo run is a non-denominational event. Our focus is raising money for Sick Kids and having fun, which seem to be universal seasonal goals.
•Registration/pre race festivities and optional carbo-loading to begin at noon, and the run will start promptly(ish) at 1:30 PM.•Post-run celebrations and awards will be held immediately following the event at Hemingway’s.
•Running route and map t.b.c.; it’s always less than 3KM.
