In just over five days, Cory Ostertag became the first to finish this year’s Golden Horseshoe Race in Ontario, setting a new record on the 1,670-kilometer loop. Learn more about his impressive ride here…

Words by Theo Kelsey-Verdecchia, photos by Glen Quinn and Ethan Mitchell

At 10:34 this morning, Cory Ostertag rolled through the finish line in Toronto’s High Park, becoming the winner of the 2026 Golden Horseshoe Race. He completed the 1,670-kilometer loop in 5 days, 3 hours, and 34 minutes, making him the fastest person ever to complete the course.

Cory came with a plan and executed it to a T, drawing on his extensive experience in the ultra discipline. He planned his move early and was the only rider to forgo sleep on the first night to establish a lead. In the first 24 hours, he covered over 400 kilometers and built a gap of nearly 100 kilometers over second place. From there, it was simply a matter of keeping the others at bay. It wasn’t easy, with second place whittling his lead down to just 40 kilometres in the final day.

Cory had to push hard until the very last morning to keep his position at the front. Despite the undeniable difficulties of an effort like this, he had a great time out there. He was always in good spirits when we saw him, albeit a bit stressed on the last day. Through all the long nights and rough trails, he stayed calm and focused the entire way back to Toronto. Congratulations on an incredible ride, Cory!

There are still more riders out on course, and you can follow their progress live here.

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