Overview
Date: Sunday, October 4, 2026
Distances: 12.5K, 25K, 50K + 50K Relay (teams of 2-4)
The HUSTLE at Pinehurst brings a legendary course back to life.
Set in the Pinehurst Lake Conservation Area just north of Paris, Ontario, this race revives the iconic Run for the Toad course, once the largest trail race in Canada, and reimagines it with a fresh experience that keeps everything we loved about the trails themselves.
Runners will take on a 12.5K loop that winds through forested singletrack, traces the edge of Pinehurst Lake, and rolls through open meadows. The trail keeps things interesting with twists, turns, and a few honest climbs that get the heart pumping and signal you’re close to the end of the loop.
Whether you’re lining up for one loop or settling in for a longer day, The Hustle is designed to be a must-do event for trail runners in southwestern Ontario and is built for all runners, as an approachable, challenging in the right ways race-course, that is rooted with real history.
This race is for runners who love good trails and a little effort. Whether it’s your first trail race, a chance to settle into a familiar loop, or a tune-up for longer goals. The Hustle offers honest, runnable trails with just enough twists and climbs to keep things interesting.
If you like forests, flowy singletrack, and a course that invites you back for another loop, this one’s for you.
Come for one loop.
Stay for a few.
Find your hustle.
Course Details
This is a loop you’ll want to come back to.
A 12.5K circuit that winds through the Carolinian Forest, wraps around Kettle Lake, and rolls gently through open meadows that feel like they were made for running. About 70% of the course is fully natural trail, with just enough firm footing mixed in to keep things flowing. Nothing extreme. Nothing fussy. Just honest trail underfoot, a few roots to keep you paying attention, and long stretches where you can settle into a rhythm and enjoy where you are.
Kettle Lake is a bit of a quiet show-off. A nine-hectare kettle lake formed by a single chunk of ice left behind by a glacier, it’s calm, clear, and always nearby. You’ll circle it more than once, which feels less like repetition and more like checking in with an old friend as the day goes on.
And just when you start feeling a little too comfortable, the course serves up a few friendly climbs to get the heart pumping. They’re not long, but they’re honest, and they’re your cue that the end of the loop is close.
Crest the climb, settle back in, and hustle it home.
This isn’t a course that’s trying to intimidate you. It’s inviting you out for a good run, a few loops, and maybe a little hustle.
Elevation: 233 Meters per 12.5K loop
Course Maps
You can download a GPX file of the 12.5K loop below
Schedule
Date: October 4, 2026
Distances: 12.5K, 25K, 50K + 50K Team Relay (up to 4 runners @ 12.5K each)
Location: Pinehurst Lake Conservation Area, Pinehurst Road, Ayr, ON, Canada
Start Times:
12.5K - 9:00 am
25K - 8:30 am
50K - 8:15 am
50K Team Relay - 8:15 am
Race Day Timeline
Park Gates open at 6:30 am
All runners must begin Lap 4 by 3:00 pm
Race course closes at 6:00 pm
Details
Race Fees
Early Bird pricing starts NOW! Prices will increase on April 30th, 2026
Race Kit Pickup
Race kits must be picked up in advance.
Race Week: Pickup at select New Balance stores. More details coming soon.
Saturday, October 3: Pinehurst Conservation Area near the White Oaks Pavilion, 2:00–4:00 PM
Sunday, October 4: No race kit pickup available
Please have your Race Roster electronic proof of registration ready at kit pickup. Start & Finish Area
The start and finish line will be located at Pinehurst Conservation Area, near the White Oaks Pavilion.
Relay Team Exchange Area
50K Relay runners will start their day with the 50K solo runners, with a special ankle chip timer that is given to each successive runner in the relay team exchange area near the start/finish line. Medical Support & Facilities
Odyssey Medical will be on site throughout the day to provide medical support as needed. Porta potties will be available near the start and finish area, and runners will have access to coin operated showers on site. If you’re feeling bold, Pinehurst Lake is also there for a refreshing post run dip. Parking On-site parking is available at Pinehurst Lake Conservation Area, but space is limited. We strongly encourage carpooling where possible. It’s better for the trails, better for your stress levels, and a great way to start the day with friends. Thanks for helping us keep things simple and smooth on race day. Bag Check There will be NO bag check available at the start and finish area. We recommend leaving personal bags and valuables in your vehicle for safekeeping. Please plan accordingly and only bring what you need to the start line. Cup-Free Event In our effort to reduce waste, The Hustle will be cup-free. Please bring your own cup or hydration system for fluids at aid stations and the finish line. Poles Hiking, trekking, or running poles are not part of this race. If you require an accommodation, please reach out to the race directors and we’ll figure it out together. Course Rules & Courtesy
Strollers and pets are not permitted on the race course. Pets are welcome elsewhere in the park but must be kept on leash at all times.
Headphones and music are allowed at a low volume so you can hear your surroundings. Please keep music to yourself, as some runners prefer a quiet, mindful run.
Thank you for helping create a safe and enjoyable day on the trails for everyone.
Time Cut-Offs There are two cut-offs in place to keep the day running smoothly and safely. All participants must begin their final loop by 3:00 PM in order to complete the course before the 6:00 PM course close.
Aid Station
There will be three aid stations on course plus one at the start and finish area to keep you fueled and moving through the day. Aid station placement is approximate:
Aid Station #1 - 4.5K
Aid Station #2 - 6K
Aid Station #3 - 9K
Aid Station #4 - 12.5K - Start/Finish area.
Aid stations will be stocked with a mix of sweet, salty, and familiar favourites, including water, Skratch Lemon-Lime, Coke, ginger ale, chips, candy, and cookies. We’ll do our best to keep things well supplied, but runners should plan to carry what they need between stations. We cannot guarantee that our on-course foods are allergen free for all athletes, please plan accordingly.
Please remember this is a cup free race, so be sure to bring your own cup or hydration system.
Register
All entries include
Entry to the Pinehurst Lake Conservation Area for the day
Race Decal
Professional chip timing
Finishers will receive a New Balance 'The Hustle at Pinehurst' Finisher Backpack. A $120 value.
Finishers will also receive a Race Medal (Design is coming soon!)
Built for The Hustle by New Balance
Pre-order a New Balance ‘The Hustle’ Hoodie, and we will have it at race day for you!
Accomodations
There are several lodging options available in the area for runners traveling in from out of town. Nearby towns like Paris and Cambridge offer a range of hotels and places to stay, including options like The Laundry Rooms and The Arlington Hotel, both within easy driving distance of Pinehurst.
For those who prefer to stay closer to the trail, camping is available at Pinehurst Lake Conservation Area. Camping can be booked directly through the Grand River Conservation Authority and is a great option if you want to make a full weekend of it and wake up right where the running happens.
We recommend booking early, especially during race season.
Results
We’ll be using chip timing to record each loop as you pass through The Hustle’s start and finish area. Every lap counts, and your times will be tracked automatically as you roll through.
Your timing chip is attached to the back of your bib and is disposable after the race. Please don’t fold or crease your bib, as this can damage the chip and affect your results. Bibs should be worn on the front of your body and be visible at all times so everything records smoothly.
Official race results will be posted by Chip Time Results.
Awards
This being the inaugural running of The HUSTLE, new course records will be set across every distance. We’re excited to celebrate the first runners to leave their mark on this course. We’ll be celebrating the top finishers across each distance. The top three Female, Male, and Non-Binary runners in each race distance will receive special awards. The First place relay team, will also receive a team award.
For the 12.5K, 25K, and 50K, first, second, and third-place awards will be presented as athletes cross the finish line.
Stick around, cheer loudly, and help us celebrate a great day on the trails and the first names to go in the books.
Sponsors
We’re grateful for the partners who help make this event possible. Their support allows us to focus on what matters most: good trails, good people, and a great day out there.
FAQ
Can I have a pacer?
Pacers are allowed for 50K solo runners only, and only on the final loop of the race. Pacers may not carry supplies, provide physical assistance, or otherwise aid their runner beyond pacing and company.
Is there parking on site?
Yes. On site parking is available at Pinehurst Lake Conservation Area, but space is limited. We strongly encourage carpooling where possible.
Can I listen to music?
Yes. Headphones and music are allowed, as long as the volume is low enough for you to hear your surroundings. Please keep music to yourself, as some runners prefer a quiet and mindful run.
Is this race cup free?
Yes. The Hustle is a cup free race. Please bring your own cup or hydration system for aid stations and the finish area.
Will there be a bag check?
No. There is no bag check available at the start and finish area. We recommend leaving personal bags and valuables in your vehicle.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The Hustle will take place rain or shine. Trail running means embracing the conditions, but if severe weather or unsafe conditions arise, the race directors may delay, modify, or cancel the event for runner safety. Any updates will be communicated as clearly and early as possible.
Are refunds or deferrals available?
Registrations are non refundable. If you’re unable to attend, we appreciate your understanding as race costs are incurred well in advance.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are not permitted on the race course. Pets are welcome elsewhere in the park but must be kept on leash at all times.
Still have questions?
If you’re unsure about something or need clarification, feel free to reach out. We’re happy to help.