Canadian distance standouts will run in Ottawa

Wodak and Linkletter bring Canadian records as well as Olympic and World Championship experience to Canada’s premier marathon weekend, adding excitement and depth to an already anticipated event in the heart of the nation’s capital region.

Wodak is the Canadian national record holder for the marathon (2:23:12) and is no stranger to Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend. A multi-time Olympian, she has represented Canada on the global stage across the marathon, half marathon, and track distances. Wodak has delivered several standout performances in the capital city, winning the Ottawa 10K presented by Otto’s Ottawa, home of the Athletics Canada Canadian 10K Championships, in both 2022 and 2023.

Most recently, she competed in the women’s marathon at the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo, Japan, finishing 31st. When asked why Wodak is returning to Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend this year, she shared, “I’ve always loved Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend. I’ve raced the Ottawa 10k presented by Otto’s Ottawa at least 10 times… it’s time to switch things up. I’m so excited to be racing one of Canada’s best marathons. It’s always special racing on home soil.”

Linkletter will compete at the 2026 Tamarack Homes Ottawa International Marathon for the second year running. A Canadian Olympian, he has competed at multiple World Athletics Championships and major international road races including top 10 placings at the 2025 Boston Marathon and the 2025 Chicago Marathon. Most recently, Linkletter set the Canadian Half Marathon Record with a time of 59:49 at the 2026 Houston Half Marathon, becoming the first Canadian to break the 60-minute barrier for the distance.

Linkletter is no stranger to Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend. At last year’s Tartan Ottawa International Marathon, Linkletter finished second overall with a time of 2:08:31, setting the fastest marathon time ever recorded by a Canadian on Canadian soil. He has also competed multiple times in the Ottawa 10K presented by Otto’s Ottawa. His return to the marathon in Ottawa places him once again on familiar roads in front of a welcoming crowd. “I can’t wait to come back to Ottawa and contend to win,” said Linkletter. “Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend is a highlight of every year.”

“We are thrilled to have Natasha and Rory back in Ottawa for the 2026 Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend. Together, their performances represent some of the most special runs in Ottawa over the last few years and we hope they will bring more magic this May.” said Stephen Andersen, Elite Athlete Coordinator. “I cannot say enough amazing things about these athletes and how they have supported our event.”

The Tamarack Homes Ottawa International Marathon is a cornerstone event of Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend, drawing elite athletes, recreational runners, and spectators from across Canada and around the world. Recognized for its fast, scenic course, strong organization, and exceptional community support, the 2026 Tamarack Homes Ottawa International Marathon will once again showcase top international and domestic talent while celebrating the passion, perseverance, and community spirit that define Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend.