FAQ

While we try to put as much information as possible on this website, we realize there are a variety of questions that remain unanswered for the inquisitive runner.  If you don't see the answer to your question, feel free to email the race director at dmbays01@gmail.com

I notice you have a field limit of sorts. Do you typically fill up?

Yes, we often do.  At that point, we work off a waiting list, which we'll explain in more detail when that time comes. We suggest interested parties not dilly-dally. 

Is there some way I can register online?

Yes, please do!  You can find us on RunSignUp.com on May 1st.

Do you send out confirmations? How will I know you've received my entry?

Yes, if you register by mail we will send an email confirmation that your entry has been received and accepted.  We don't check the mailbox every day so be patient, give us a week or two.

So, is yours a good race for first-timers?

Gee, we'd like to think so. We realize there are few things quite like that first marathon attempt, and each year we're pleased and honored to host a number of first-timers in our race field. If friendly, personal support and a run in the beautiful countryside are what you're looking for, we're your race. If you think you'll need screaming urban crowds and live music to get you to the finish line, we're not.

But ... do you really not have T-shirts? Or medals?

Nope and nope. We realize that, for many runners, those are some of the perks that make marathons (and all that training!) worthwhile. We certainly understand! We just chose from the start to take a different tack with our event, in the process keeping runner expenses minimal. We do though take this time to flex our crafting skills and make all participants a memento to take home.  They will for sure be filled with flaws, imperfections, and a whole lotta love.  We hope you will treasure these as much as your medals.  This year's memento is a quilted coaster sewn from leftover bandannas from last year's race.  And, if you're a winner you'll get a matching mug!

 Is the course fast?

Well, it's not a burner, but it's not inordinately slow, either ... average, perhaps? Each year, we do have several runners muster Boston-qualifying times here. We suggest you check our runners' critiques on www.marathonguide.com for a little more insight, not only about the course, but the race in general. 

Is your race a Boston Marathon Qualifying Race?

Yes, the course is USATF certified and we meet all BAA standards to be considered a Boston Marathon Qualifying Race.

So, what's the footing like? Do I need trail shoes?

As far as "trail" courses go, this one's about as nondescript as they come, and the footing is typically good, even during and/or following inclement weather (though we've certainly tested that on occasion!). Some folks wear trail shoes, but most do not.

Do you utilize chip timing?

There are a couple spots on the course where you might encounter cow chips, but no, we do not use the type you'd want to find on your shoes or clothing.  We do use computer timing programs and equipment and the course is monitored as required to be a Boston Marathon qualifying race.

What do you supply at your aid stations?

All our aid stations provide water and Gatorade.  You should also find, at a minimum, fig bars, plus other food items as individual workers might supply. Please note that we do NOT provide gels of any kind.

And what about your "facilities"?

There are porta-johns and/or restrooms at the start/finish area, the Watauga trailhead parking lot, which you'll pass three times, and Alvarado Station, which you'll pass twice.  Hopefully these will take care of your needs but do keep in mind you'll be out in the woods for most of your run ....

Where can my family/friends go to watch during the race?

If your support folks hang around the Watauga trailhead area, they'll see you pass by at approximately 3.5, 15.5 and 22.5 miles ... and will have time to drive back to the start/finish area to celebrate your finish. 

Meanwhile, after your first pass through the Watauga trailhead, the more adventurous can also drive to the Alvarado trailhead (mile 8.5ish), and see you pass by at approximately 8.5 and 10.5 miles if they wish.

Is there somewhere we can store our gear during the race?

Absolutely. We have a drop area at the start/finish where you can leave a bag, food/drink, etc.  If you want a drop-bag to be transported to a specific aid station you must arrive at the start/finish area before 7:00 a.m.  Note that those items (plus any other items you leave at an aid station during the race) may not be returned to the finish area until after 2:00 p.m.

Do you have a time limit?

Well .... here's the deal.  No, we do not have an official time limit but our permit does not allow anyone to be on the trail before sunrise or after sundown, so that's the only "real" time limit.  Our  finish timers will remain at their posts -- cheerfully! -- until the last participant has finished.   However, our course workers will close the aid stations at 2:00 p.m. (at the six hour mark).   If you know up front that you're going to be out on the course for six or more hours, we ask that you start one hour early. You will merely need to advise the Race Director accordingly and check in beforehand. Please note that early starters may be self-timed (yes, we trust you!) and do count as official finishers but are ineligible for our few awards.

**Early starters and post-six hour finishers should be prepared to be self-supported before 7:45 a.m. and after 2:00 p.m.**

Do you allow walkers?

Yes, walkers are welcomed (in a typical year, we'll have two or three), though we must ask that you start early. Please note the info in the previous item.

Do you have a minimum age limit?

No, there is not a minimum age to participate in this marathon. We do, however, ask parents/guardians to use their best judgment regarding their minor child's ability to tackle the significant task at hand. Do note that those under the race-day age of 18 must have the signature of a parent/guardian on the entry form.

How long will it take me to get there from _________ ?

Our race is located in the town of Abingdon, in far southwestern Virginia. To reach the race site, take Exit 17 from Interstate 81. From that point, the "course map" provided on this site also includes sufficient direction to get you where you need to be.

How about by air?

The closest commercial airport is the Tri-Cities Regional Airport (TRI) in northeastern Tennessee, roughly 35 miles/40 minutes from the aforementioned Exit 19. From some points of departure, flying into McGhee-Tyson Airport (TYS) at Knoxville, TN, may be less expensive, but that's a couple hours' drive.

May I wear headphones, earbuds, etc., during the race?

Several years back, USATF amended Rule 144.3, which pertains to the use of headphones and other electronic devices, giving race directors the discretion to allow the use of headphones by runners in non-championship races. The rule previously had banned the use of headphones by all runners.

We feel that such devices present issues of both safety and politeness, since the user's ability to hear and properly interact with race officials and with other participants is significantly impaired.

That said, our position is this -- while we prefer that participants not wear such devices, we acknowledge that some runners view them as indispensable equipment. We do, therefore, allow their use.

If you have any questions, please contact the Race Director.