The Vancouver Island Race Series' Cedar 12K is getting a new home and a new name.
The event is moving from Cedar to Lantzville and will now be known as the Bastion 12K. The road race is set to take place on Feb. 9 and is expected to attract between 500 and 800 participants.
The decision to relocate was driven by a desire to encourage the kind of growth seen in other race events. While the Cedar 12K had been expanding, it was not keeping pace with races like the Comox Valley Half Marathon, said Christopher Kelsall, president and general manager of the Vancouver Island Race Series.
"This move allows us to spread the series more evenly across the Island," said Kelsall.
Currently, four races take place in Greater Victoria, while the up-Island events include stops in Cobble Hill, Nanaimo, Port Alberni, and the Comox Valley.
The new course offers a similar level of difficulty to the former Cedar 12K but introduces a few extra turns. Organizers believe the compact layout will enhance the spectator experience and give runners better visibility of their competitors throughout the race.
Race director Trent Horwood expressed excitement about the changes.
"We are looking forward to what the new race will be like with its unique layout. Being in Lantzville, we know area residents are excited about welcoming runners during the shoulder season," Horwood said.
The Cedar 12K had a long run, operating from 1989 to 2024. Initially, it was a 15K for six years, with occasional variations to 7K or 8K, likely due to environmental concerns or road closures.
One major advantage of the new location is improved parking, a notable challenge at the previous venue. Additionally, Aspengrove School has stepped in as a supporter, providing a venue for race operations.
"We needed to update the venue to simplify organization and allow for growth," said Horwood. "Aspengrove School came forward as a supporter, and we are thrilled with the new location. We think our race venue will be the envy of the other races."
The race begins at 11 a.m. at Apsengrove School, 7660 Clark Dr., in Lantzville. Participants can register online at http://islandseries.org.
The Bastion 12K is the third race in the 2025 Island Race Series, which continues with the Hatley Castle 8K in Colwood (Feb. 23); Westcoast Sooke 10K (March 9); Comox Valley RV Half-Marathon (Courtenay, March 23); McLean Mill 10K (Alberni Valley, April 6); Synergy Health Bazan Bay 5K (North Saanich, April 13).
