Ontario walk/run combines fitness and...chocolate? #wanderfood

Haven't you always thought that fitness races would be much more fun if they involved junk food?

Well, have I got an event for you.


The Chocolate Race in Port Dalhousie, Ontario--a cute village in the Niagara Region--attracted almost 600 participants in its inaugural year in 2009. This year's event includes 5K, 10K and half-marathon courses open to runners and walkers alike.

But unlike most similar events, which reward health-conscious participants with fruit and granola bars, this one includes a "sweet aid station" on the course, as well as chocolate goodies before and after the race--everything from chocolate-dipped strawberries to fudge.

The unusual combination of fitness and indulgence takes place this year on August 28 and 29. If you need some training inspiration, check out the event's chatty blog, written by a runner-in-training.

And the best part? It's a chance to get a little off the packed tourist trail centered on the famous cataract nearby. Sure, Port Dalhousie is a bit touristy, but it can't hold a candle to casino-and-wax-museum-packed Niagara Falls.