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2018 is going to be a jam-packed year for sporting events and activities in Winnipeg. As we get ready to soak in that sunshine, there will be some action-packed athletics coming our way, real quick. Whether you're a fan, spectator or athlete, there will definitely be events on your radar in the spring and summer you won't want to miss. We don't get to write about this every year, but the way the Winnipeg Jets are playing it seems like we could be watching some hockey deep into the spring months (and possibly into June? We're knocking on wood). Bring on the hockey jersey-cargo shorts combo! Not to be outdone, the Manitoba Moose seem to be preparing for a long playoff run of their own. We don't want to jinx it, but maybe we should start planning how we're able to host two different championship parades? (We're knocking on wood again, don't worry). Fresh from a breakout regular season and with some powerhouse new additions to the roster, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers are ready to wreak havoc on the Canadian Football League once again. Investors Group Field, which is one peach of a venue and the envy of all other CFL teams, will be bumping as tens of thousands of diehard Blue and Gold fans get ready to cheer our team to victory. CFL games are tailored for excitement, featuring three-downs and massive end zones that promote a passing game. The Bombers host the Edmonton Eskimos for the CFL season opener on June 14 — get your cowbells ready! Two-time defending American Association champions Winnipeg Goldeyes are going for a three-peat this year, and are ready to bring their A-game talent. Shaw Park, Winnipeg's gorgeous ball park, is located downtown right on the Red River and comes alive on those warm Winnipeg nights. Tickets are very affordable — with generous group rates available — while every seat in the house gives you an exceptional view of the diamond. If you're looking to cross something off your bucket list, the Manitoba Marathon is celebrating 40 runnings on June 17th, and preparing for their ruby anniversary in style. A variety of race distances, from the traditional 26.2 miler (start training now for this), to a much more relaxed 4-km super run offers runners of all ages and skill levels the chance to pound some pavement. If you want to whoop it up like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman head west of the city to Assiniboia Downs where live horsing takes place all summer long. Along with the thrill of hearing and seeing thunderous hooves turn the track from the stands, the Downs also has great dining and outstanding group packaging. The "Fastest Sport on the Prairies!" can be witnessed once a week at Red River Co-op Speedway. May through September, you'll experience the roar of multiple car classes competing in a variety of races on central Canada's largest oval dirt track. Looking to get into the swing of things? Winnipeg golf courses are always par for the course, as the city and surrounding countryside are studded with golf courses ranging from championship-level greens that host PGA Tour Canada events, to casual 9-hole, par-3 courses. The Golf Dome is a perfect opportunity to work on your long game, rain or shine. Grab a bucket of balls at the indoor driving range, or play through nine holes on a virtual simulator featuring some of the world's best courses. Kids will also enjoy the on-site mini-golf course. For some cardio-heavy indoor athletics, Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park and Flying Squirrel Sports provide a high-flying experience that's fun for all ages. Many sizes and shapes of trampoline means you'll always have a place to jump around, while dodgeball and basketball games are available for some next-level sporting. On Your Marks, Get Set… Go! 42 2018 SPRING/SUMMER EVENTS & ITINERARIES GUIDE WINNIPEG Red River Co-op Speedway: Vince Pahkala Photo Courtesy of Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park