Murphy's Mission
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Murphy's Mission
Murphy's Mission is a fundraising running and canicross event on November 7, 2026 at Christie Lake Conservation Area in Dundas, Ontario. Proceeds support Hamilton Animal Services adoption program, which funds medical care, behavioral support, enrichment supplies, and outreach for shelter animals. The event is held in honour of Murphy, the first shelter dog taken on a Steeltown Canicross group run.
Race categories and distances include:
- 5 km single dog canicross
- 10 km single dog canicross (two 5 km loops)
- 5 km human only run
- 10 km human only run (two 5 km loops)
- 5 km fun walk with dog
- 5 km two dog team canicross
- 10 km two dog team canicross (two loops)
The course is a scenic 5 km loop around Christie Lake with mixed surfaces: grass, gravel, rolling hills, and double-track trails. The 10 km options complete two loops. The event will use chip timing. Beach Pavilion 2 is the gathering location and parking is free for participants and spectators.
Canicross categories require appropriate gear: a padded waist belt, a 1.5–2 m bungee line, and a sport-specific dog harness. Standard leashes and collars are not permitted for canicross; teams without suitable gear may be moved to the fun walk. Canicross starts use small waves of eight teams with spacing in the start chute. Trail etiquette notes include keeping dogs on leash, avoiding on-leash greetings, picking up waste, and giving space for reactive dogs.
Race merchandise is available; a portion of merch proceeds will be donated to Hamilton Animal Services. The event has a no refund policy and allows bib transfers for a fee. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
