The top summer running events in Toronto offer a perfect midpoint between spring and fall's intense training schedule - summer season races typically tap out at around 10K - but for those who can take the heat, dial up the distance and don't forget the SPF!

Here's my list of the top running events in Toronto this summer.

Toronto Waterfront 10K - Saturday, June 25th
This run, formerly known as the Yonge Street 10K, kicks off at University and Queen before meandering down to a CNE finish. The course is mostly flat or downhill, so breaking records will be a real possibility.

Pride and Remembrance Run - Saturday, July 2nd
This rainbow-filled race is one of the best fun-runs of the season, heading through the Village before heading to Queen's Park for a lap before finishing back at Church and Wellesley.

Battlefrog Toronto - Saturday, July 2nd
This American OCR-style run is the first race to take place outside on the U.S. Designed by Navy SEALS, the route is 8K up to infinity, with 'xtreme' runners tasked with running until they can't.

Toronto Carnival Run - Saturday, July 23rd
The inaugural 5K Carnival Run takes place a week before the big party, with runners taking over the Martin Goodman Trail in support of the Simunye Foundation.

TO Women's Run- Race Two - Saturday, August 27th
The second installment of three races, this event boasts 5K and 10K routes that weave through shady Sunnybrook Park. Toronto's finest firefighters will man the water stations and keep runners well-hydrated.

B&O Yorkville Run - Sunday, September 11th
Fancy pants runners will unite to hijack the streets of Yorkville for a fast, furious and flat 5K with flashy prizes and white gloved waiters at the finish.

Toronto Island Run - Sunday, September 11th
Toronto's Longboat Roadrunners take over the Island for this 10 and 5K race, with free photos, medals, shirts and ferry tickets for all participants. Funds raised go to local children's charities.

Toronto 10 Miler - Saturday, September 17th
Cherry Beach is the scenic start to this 10 mile, 5K and half marathon race, with the waterfront keeping you company as you navigate the Leslie Street Spit.

Terry Fox Run - Sunday, September 18th
Held annually throughout the city (and the world) this do-gooder family-friendly run has no flashy medals or prizes; the real reward is giving back to this cancer-fighting charity.

Oasis Zoo Run - Saturday September 24th
This popular run sells out every year, packing humans into the zoo for a 5K or 10K route, with runners and their cheer squads hanging out for the day post-race.

Writing by Libby Roach

Photo via the Toronto Pride and Remembrance Run's Facebook page.