Sinister sports, the top ultra and endurance event organizers in the country, are coming to Ontario with two landmark races including the province’s first three-day stage race with a 50K or 25K event, a loop-based and time event and an evening climb.
From Oct. 3-5, the Blue Bully Ultra will bring a trail running festival atmosphere to Blue Mountain Resort. Over three days, runners can participate in a short evening climb, a 50-km ultra race, and a half-marathon. Participants can compete across all three events to vie for the title of “King or Queen of the Hill.”
Set against the stunning autumn backdrop of the Bruce Peninsula, this unique event will challenge runners of all abilities with three distinct race formats over the course of a single weekend.
Unlike traditional ultramarathons that push runners through a single gruelling day, this stage race—organized by Sinister Sports—demands sustained effort over multiple days, requiring athletes to balance speed, endurance, and recovery.
“We really saw this as an opportunity to have a festival-like event,” says Brian Gallant, Sinister Sports race director. “Blue Mountain Resort has the perfect facilities for this type of event, and it perfectly fit our stage race concept.”
Three Days, Three Different Challenges
The structure of the Blue Bully Ultra is designed to test various aspects of a runner’s skill set, from power and speed to endurance and strategic pacing. The course will make use of segments of the Bruce Trail, with the event supporting the Bruce Trail Conservancy.
Day 1: The Stampede: Racers kick off the weekend with a short but intense vertical challenge. Covering five kilometres, this race packs in a demanding 400 metres of elevation gain, forcing runners to embrace a steep climb right from the start. It’s an explosive opener that sets the tone for the weekend.
Day 2: The Drive The longest and most gruelling day features a choice between a 50-km or 25- km cross-country race. With elevation gains of 1,800 metres and 1,250 metres respectively, this stage is a serious test of endurance. To make the event inclusive for all ages, a kids’ race—the Woolly Bully—ensures younger participants get their share of the action.
Day 3: The Round-Up The final stage introduces a time-based race format. Runners will attempt to complete as many loops as possible on a 3.75-km course within either a three-hour or 1.5-hour timeframe. This event adds a strategic element, as competitors must decide on pacing and energy expenditure after two intense days of racing.
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More Than Just a Race
While the event is a serious test of physical and mental resilience, it also promises to be a social and community-driven experience. Runners who commit to the full three-day challenge will receive exclusive race swag, including a technical shirt, a custom toque, and a microfiber head wrap. Evenings will feature social gatherings, live music, and post-race meals, making the weekend about more than just competition.
Gallant adds that the Saturday festivities will be a highlight: “Every night will have some activities, but we’re planning some big festivities for the Saturday of the event, so we can all celebrate together.”
Safety is also a key focus, with full medical and search-and-rescue support available throughout the event. Organizers emphasize a well-supported and professional race environment, ensuring that runners can focus on their performance without unnecessary risks.
The Evolution of Ontario’s Trail Running Scene
The arrival of a three-day stage race marks a significant milestone for Ontario’s trail running community. Stage races are more commonly associated with rugged multi-day adventures in the mountains of Western Canada or international destinations like the Marathon des Sables. By bringing this format to Ontario, the event offers local trail runners a chance to experience a new style of racing without traveling far from home.
With a mix of technical terrain, elevation, and endurance elements, this event could set a new precedent for trail racing in the province. Whether runners tackle a single day or push through the full weekend, the experience promises to be a memorable addition to Ontario’s trail running calendar.
In addition in 2025, Sinister Sports is expanding its ultra offerings even further with the inaugural SOO200 in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. This 200-mile epic race trades the Rockies’ towering peaks for the rugged beauty of the Canadian Shield. The course traverses dense boreal forests, rocky outcrops, and the shores of Lake Superior, showcasing some of Canada’s most striking and under-explored landscapes.
“It’s about sharing what Canada does best, and that is friendly people, hospitality, and memorable wilderness experiences,” Gallant adds.
To find out more information out Blue Bully Ultra and Soo200 check the Sinister Sports website.
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