Frequently Asked Questions

• Is this race a Boston qualifer?
  Yes, this is a USATF certified Boston-qualifying marathon course, with certification number UT12016GAN. According to the BAA's most recent press release, registration for 2014 is set to open on September 9th and will remain open according to the schedule on the website. They are increasing their capacity this year to include 36,000 runners, and have also announced that the qualifying window for the 2015 Boston Marathon begins on September 14, 2013, which is our race date. This is great news, as your race this year could potentially get you into two Boston Marathons!
• I am coming from sea level. How will the altitude effect me?
  Because the canyon portion of the race is significantly downhill, the cardiovascular requirements during this portion are largely minimized. Additionally, atmospheric oxygen levels will increase as runners descend the canyon, allowing runners to benefit from increased oxygen intake as they progress in the race. Based on the experiences of runners coming from lower elevation in previous years, altitude has not been a factor and many have been able to achieve personal records by significant amounts.
• Is a downhill course hard on your quads/knees/toes?
  Increased speed on a downhill slope also increases footstrike impact and works your muscles differently compared to running on flat surfaces or uphill slopes. The bottom line is that if you prepare by following a few simple training guidelines that are specific to downhill racing, you will be able to take full advantage of this course without adverse effects. See our "Training" tab for more specific and comprehensive advice on preparing for a downhill race.
• How do I withdraw from the race?
  We understand that life is unpredictable and that plans sometimes need to be changed. Our very generous withdrawal policy allows you to withdraw from the race and get a full refund minus a small transaction fee. Visit our withdraw page for more details or to complete the process.
• How do I transfer between events or to another person?
  We understand that life is unpredictable and that plans sometimes need to be changed. Our very generous transfer policy also allows you to transfer between races or transfer your entry to another individual. Visit our transfer page for more details or to complete the process.
• Is race-day packet pickup available?
  In order to avoid delays and complications so we can ensure an on-time start, we do not offer packet pick-up the day of the race. If you are unable to make it to the expo to pick up your race packet, we will allow another individual to pick it up for you as long as they have a photocopy of your driver's license or another photo ID and a signed note from you authorizing them to do so.
• Are there course time limits?

  Because road closures for the race must be re-opened for normal traffic, we are required to set course time limits. Road closures will be lifted based on a 6:00:00 marathon time. Any runners still on the course after the rolling cut-off times may continue to proceed along the course route to the finish area, but aid station and traffic control support will not be available.

  For the full marathon, the cut-off time is equivalent to a 13:45/mile pace for the marathon. This is equivalent to a very light jog or brisk power walk.

  Because the half marathon begins further down the canyon and heads straight to the finish line after exiting the canyon, the cut-off pace for the half marathon is slower than it is for the full marathon, at roughly 22:00/mile.

  The expectation is that only a few runners, if any, will be affected by the course time limits.

• What nutrition will be provided on the course?
  All of our aid stations will be supplied with electrolyte drinks and water. Additionally, various aid stations will be supplied with energy gels, fruit, and other nutritional items to keep you running strong to the finish. Details regarding nutrition along the course (brands, flavors, locations) will be provided soon on the website and will also be given in the race program.
• Are strollers allowed on the course?
  Because of both logistical and liability issues, we are not currently allowing strollers on the buses or in the event. We're sorry that we are not able to accommodate you at this point, but will keep these requests in mind for future years.
• Are there prizes and awards for winners and age division placers?

  All runners completing the race will receive one of our famous finisher's medals as they cross the finish line. Age division and overall awards will be given as well. Additional details regarding these awards and timing for the awards ceremonies are forthcoming.

• How do I get my free photos and personalized highlight video?
  We will send an email prior to race-day asking for permission to have the photos and personalized highlight videos given to you directly via Facebook. Once the photos and video are in your possession they are all yours!