ATHLETICS ONTARIO
TRACK & FIELD/
CROSS COUNTRY
The sport governing body for track and field in Canada, now called Athletics Canada, was established in 1889 and is one of the oldest affiliated bodies with the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), fourth only to Great Britain (1880), New Zealand (1887), and the USA (1888). Athletics Ontario (formerly the Ontario Track and Field Association) is a branch of Athletics Canada.
Until 1974, Ontario was split into three governing bodies, Southwestern, Northwestern, and Central. However, there was an interest in establishing a more efficient means of developing the sport while maintaining a system that would still enable regions to have a voice regarding major decisions in the province. As a result, a new provincial association, composed of six newly defined regions was formed in 1974, and in October 1977 the Ontario Track and Field Association became an incorporated body.
ROAD & TRAIL
Athletics Ontario promotes road and trail running, and provides runners of all ages and abilities the opportunity to achieve personal excellence through programs and services founded on the principles of safety and fair play. Training is year round, communities across Ontario host road races for everyone from beginners to pros, while committed trail runners take advantage of our country’s fantastic natural terrain.
Making strides towards a thriving and inclusive running community in Ontario ~ All people, all speeds, all terrains, all abilities are welcome.
PARA-ATHLETICS
Track and Field Athletics in Ontario continues to grow for para athletes. One of the unique characteristics of the sport is the variety of events offered as well the age demographics it brings to the competition. Athletics Ontario with partnership of it’s club members and MSO’s provide athletes training, coaching and the opportunity to participate in competitions throughout the province at sanctioned indoor and outdoor meets. The rules of Paralympic Track and Field are almost identical to those of the Olympics. Para athletics, also known as track and field, is the largest competition at the Paralympic Games. Events are available for physical Impairments – both seated and standing – athletes with visual impairments, as well as those who are intellectually impaired. Contested events are held in track racing, throwing as well as marathon.
Masters
Are you 30 and over, live in Ontario, and want to compete in track and field, racewalking, road racing, cross country, or the throwing events? Ontario Masters Athletics is for you!
Whether you want to get back in shape or are a former elite competitor, masters athletics will allow you to compete in a friendly environment with people of your own abilities – competitions happen in 5-year age groups, so no one gets blown off the track by athletes half their age.
We organize indoor track-and-field events in the winter, outdoor track-and-field events in the spring and summer, cross-country races in the fall, and road races in the summer.
