I am a passionate runner and a resident of Toronto, ON, Canada. Recently, I've become deeply concerned about the safety conditions surrounding the Toronto Marathon Race https://www.torontomarathon.com/ It's unsafe for runners to participate without proper road closures and safety measures.  

Each year, the Toronto Marathon attracts thousands of enthusiastic runners from diverse backgrounds. However, the event lacks essential safety provisions, including adequate road closures, signage, starting corrals, course marshals, police presence, barriers, and medical facilities. This deficiency in safety measures increases the likelihood of accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.

Furthermore, the event suffers from a multitude of shortcomings, including the absence of essential facilities such as washrooms, emergency contact procedures, and volunteers. This negligence not only compromises the integrity of the event but also endangers the lives of participants.

It is distressing that the Toronto Marathon, instead of being a source of pride for our city, has become synonymous with disappointment and safety concerns. Participants, some of whom travel great distances and invest considerable time and resources in preparation, are met with subpar conditions and experiences.

Heartbreaking stories, like that of a runner who passed out during the marathon and was left without access to her emergency contact or belongings, underscore the urgent need for change. 
The health and safety of our community should always be paramount. We cannot allow our love for sport to overshadow the importance of ensuring that every participant returns home safely at the end of the day.

Let us come together as a community in support of this cause - because every runner's life matters. I can go on about what is wrong with this Toronto marathon but you can read it for yourself:

2024: The Toronto Marathon: a series of unfortunate events - Canadian Running Magazine​

2023: Toronto Marathon slammed for cars driving through the race course and medals being stolen at the finish line​

2022: Minor hiccups as Toronto Marathon returns after two year hiatus ​

2019: Toronto Marathon issues draw complaints - Canadian Running Magazine

Please sign this petition urging for cancellation or rescheduling until adequate safety measures are put into place for the Toronto Marathon.

Something has to change.