Sinister Sports, renowned for its epic endurance events in the Rockies, is making waves by bringing not one, but two thrilling new races to Ontario in 2025. With the launch of the SOO 200-miler (321K) in Sault Ste. Marie and the Blue Bully Ultra stage race at Blue Mountain Resort, trail runners across Canada are in for a new, unparalleled challenge.
Ontario’s new 200-miler: the SOO 200
Trail runners eager to push their limits can now set their sights on a 200-mile race scheduled for July 20–26. The SOO 200 promises to showcase the beauty of the Canadian Shield and segments of Lake Superior’s stunning coastline.
In 2023, Sinister Sports hosted Western Canada’s first-ever 200-miler, The Divide 200, which traverses the Great Divide trail between Alberta and B.C. The race was a sell-out success, and runners have demonstrated their enthusiasm for the challenges the longer races bring. “We see more and more people stepping up to 200-milers in North America,” says Brian Gallant, race director of Sinister Sports. Gallant explains that Sinister Sports is passionate about showing off the Canadian running scene. “We want to show the diversity of what Canada offers, and not focus solely on Alberta and BC. The Soo feels like the perfect community for this.”
Sault Ste. Marie, known for its revitalized downtown and extensive trail network, offers a unique terrain for runners. With its rugged landscapes dotted with lakes, this race will differ from Sinister’s western events by trading massive elevation gain for raw, unfiltered wilderness. Gallant explains, “For our longer ultras, we always seek out out-of-the-way places with great wilderness experiences. The SOO 200 is a next-level event, and we think people are ready for this kind of challenge.”
Blue Bully Ultra: a festive stage race
Adding to the excitement, Sinister Sports is also debuting the Blue Bully Ultra, a three-day stage race at Blue Mountain Resort from October 3–5. With individual and full-stage entry options, this event will blend both challenge and community spirit.
The weekend will kick off with a short, steep run on Friday (5–8K), followed by a classic 50K ultra (with other distance options) on Saturday, and wrapping up with a Sunday race ranging from a 10K to a half marathon. “Blue Mountain Resort offers everything you could want in a host site, from a welcoming atmosphere to top-notch amenities,” says Kevin Duriaux, Sinister’s head of new race development.
Expanding the Sinister experience
Sinister Sports prides itself on being about more than racing; it aims to expand the trail-running community wherever it goes. “We’re community builders,” says Gallant. “Wherever we go, we grow the running community with us. We want these events to be something both the host and running communities can be proud of.”
While course details remain under wraps until late December, one thing is certain: the bar is being raised for endurance events in Canada.
Ready to take on the challenge? Whether you’re eyeing the Soo 200 or the Blue Bully Ultra, these races promise to deliver the unforgettable Sinister experience Ontario has been waiting for. Keep an eye on the Sinister Sports website here, and check out their social media here.
