One for the Books

Canadians Race to Break World Records at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon

TORONTO, ON--(Marketwired - September 17, 2014) - Ready, set, go! On October 19, 2014, Canadians are invited to make their mark in history at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon. Beyond completing the 42km run, Canadians are invited to attempt an official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ record

"At the 25^th anniversary of the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon, we hope Canadians will be inspired to go the distance," says Claude Norfolk, Scotiabank Senior Vice President of the Toronto Region. "There are so many ways to get involved, including the Scotiabank Charity Challenge, where participants can raise funds for their charity of choice, the Neighbourhood Challenge, where spectators can support their Neighbourhood Champion and their local charity, and the Scotiabank MARATHON Jr program. One of the most unique ways to take part is by trying to set a Guinness World Record. From spectators to marathoners, the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS challenge ignites a sense of Canadian pride, and creates the kind of community that we encourage through the race."

Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon's GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS-setting run began in 2004 when Beaches resident Michal Kapral set a new world record for the "Fastest Marathon While Pushing a Pram" with his daughter on board. Michal returned in 2005 to set a world record for "joggling" -- running while juggling 3 balls the entire race.

Since then, Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon has seen an inspiring assortment of GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ titles from Jefferson the Dog who became the "Fastest Marathon as a Mascot" in 2010 to Stephane Hetherington who set a new record for "Fastest Marathon in a Superhero Costume" in 2012. For the past two years, Toronto Maple Leafs fan Paul Statchuk has set uniquely Canadian world records -- and united hockey and sports fans alike in the process -- first with the "Fastest Marathon in a full Hockey Kit (including stick)" in 2012 and then with the "Fastest Marathon in a Lacrosse Uniform."

"The marathon is truly a wonderful city festival," says Race Director Alan Brookes. "It embodies a sense of joy, achievement, and celebration. From the crazy costumes to the stories behind them, the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS-setting runners are a vital part of the energy and excitement of the race. We're really hoping to see a lot of competitors chase their world record dreams this year, and in turn, raise funds in support of their respective charities."