Yes, this is a USATF certified Boston-qualifying marathon course.

For more information regarding Boston Marathon qualifying standards and timelines, please visit the qualifying procedure page of their website.

 

Because road closures for the race must be re-opened for normal traffic, we are required to set course time limits. Both races start at 6:00am, and participants need to be at the finish line by 1:03pm (6 hours and 33 minutes total time, 15:00/mile pace for the marathon and 30:00/mile pace for the half marathon).  See the event info page for exact time limits.

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.

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 page for more specific and comprehensive advice on preparing for a downhill race.

The entire race is run on paved road. Runners will have at least one full lane of the road or the shoulder/portion of a lane for the entire race (not just a shoulder).

Go to the Join My Team page and fill out the form. You will need your confirmation number emailed to after you registered.

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.

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.

If you are unable to attend the expo, we will allow individuals to pick up someone else's bag, but will require a digital or hardcopy of the person's ID and a written note authorizing them to do so.

If you will be arriving in town after the expo is closed or are otherwise unable to attend the expo, you may elect to have your packet mailled to you for an additional fee. This option may be selected during registration. Starting in 2025, there is NO race day packet pick-up. As our events have grown it has become increasingly difficult to deliver logistically on race day packet pickup. The challenges of transporting thousands of runners to a start line for an on time start are amplified with morning packet pickup options.

All of our aid stations will be supplied with electrolyte drinks and water. Additionally, various aid stations will be supplied with frozen treats, Honey Stinger 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 as the event nears on the event info page and will also be given in the race program.

Runners will be allowed to use Earbuds on the course. However, for your safety we highly recommend that you keep the volume of your music low enough to still be aware of your surroundings, as police officers, volunteers, or emergency vehicles may need to get your attention at some point along the course. We highly recommend using open ear headphones like Shokz. Shokz uses bond conduction to play music and make phone calls all the while being aware of your surroundings. Find more about them on their website.

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.

You will receive an email within 24-48 hours of your race with your photos. Once the photos and video are in your possession they are all yours!

All runners completing the race will receive one of our famous finisher's medals. Additional awards will be given to the top runners overall and in each age division. See the event info page for more details. Age division placers must pick up their awards at the race.