The Leftovers Mystery Race
Event details
The Leftovers Mystery Race is scheduled for December 6, 2025, at Bayfront Park, Harbour Front Drive, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. The event is sold out and a waitlist is available. Registration for 2025 is free, but participants are asked to bring a crisp $20 bill to donate to one of four charities: SickKids Hospital, Hamilton Conservation Authority, Melanoma Canada, or Hamilton Out of the Cold. Spaces are limited and tied to leftover race items.
Format and logistics
Participants choose their distance on race day after hearing the distance descriptions. Distances available (mystery categories):
- Short: 6 km or less
- Medium: 10-15 km
- Long: 16-25 km
All participants receive a pair of blunt-tip scissors. At checkpoints runners draw a paper with an image they must cut out before leaving the checkpoint; volunteers judge the quality of the cut and may require a redo. The route uses paved pedestrian trails in Bayfront Park. There will be one basic aid station mainly useful for the longest distance; participants should bring any additional supplies they need.
Registration includes a well-marked route, leftover race swag, and a finisher medal. Trades of leftover items are encouraged. The event will not be chip-timed and race photos will not be provided; timing will be by watch, pen, and paper. There are no refunds or deferrals; bib transfers to another person are allowed. Creative awards and costume recognition will be given. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.