About Us
Our Story
Straw Dog Racing was founded by Stephen Connor, Mauro Campanelli, and Russell Thacker with a simple idea at its core. Trail running is about humility, effort, and connection to place. The name Straw Dog reflects that belief. Historically, a straw dog symbolized letting go of ego and embracing the natural world. It represents finding meaning in the experience rather than the outcome.
That philosophy mirrors trail running. You enter the forest with respect. The trail shapes the day. What stays with you is not the finish time but how the run felt.
Straw Dog Racing reflects the personalities and values of its founders. Not too serious. A little quirky. Rooted in authenticity. The brand was never meant to posture or feel exclusive. It is an invitation to run for the love of it and to show up exactly as you are.
The races they create are challenging yet approachable, designed to celebrate Ontario’s landscapes. Each event aims to build community, welcome runners of all experience levels, and give back to the conservation areas and trail systems that make trail running possible.
Straw Dog Racing is about honest effort, shared experience, and respect for the trail. The run itself is the point.
Our Team
Behind every race is a group of people who care deeply about the experience. Our team works year-round to create events that are safe, welcoming, and fun for everyone who shows up.
You’ll find us on course, at aid stations, and around the action, always happy to say hello. We love hearing what you enjoyed, what stood out, and how we can make things even better. Your feedback helps shape the races we build.
At the end of the day, we’re here for the trails, the community, and the shared effort that brings it all together.
