Frequently Asked Questions
What is a hybrid virtual / in-person event?
We recognize participants want to choose how they participate in Run Calgary events during this pandemic. Run Calgary is committed to delivering quality experiences to keep you moving whether you prefer to run virtually or in-person. A hybrid event is a combination virtual race, where you run on your own, on your own route and during a designated race window. In-person events will be limited in numbers and covid-secure for those who self-select to join us for a marked course at a designated time and location. Some things like curbside pick-up, the spirit awards and post-race party will overlap and be for both virtual and in-person races. However you will only get information and communication from us on the race you choose to do.
What is the cancellation policy?
If Run Calgary cancels the in-person race due to an increase of local COVID-19 cases or on the direction of local or provincial authorities, participants will be informed as soon as possible, and everyone will be automatically registered in the virtual race. This event will not be rescheduled.
When should I register?
Registration opens to the general public on Tuesday, October 13th at noon and participation is limited to the first 75 runners for each wave —so register fast to ensure your spot. If the limit is not reached, registration for in-person will close at 2PM on October 30th, registration for virtual will remain open until October 31st. There is no race day registration for in-person.
Can I receive a refund, or defer my entry to another date?
No refunds can be issued.
If you are displaying COVID-19 symptoms prior to race day or at the race location, you will be allowed to defer your registration. Please email info@calgarymarathon.com for directions.
Are masks required?
Yes, masks are required to be worn in all start and finish areas on site and until you have crossed the start line. Masks do not need to be worn on course while running, but should not be discarded and must be put back on before you exit the finish chute. Masks may be removed after you finish if you are actively eating or drinking.
What post-race amenities will be available?
There will be a contactless pick-up of pre-bagged medal, water, sports drink and Halloween treats for all runners immediately after the finish line. One bag per runner, please. There will be no water on-course except in cases of dangerous heat or humidity. Run Calgary will not have post-race activities and asks that you to limit your dwell time and continue the celebration with us online. Once you receive your pre-bagged items please exit the area.
Where should I park?
Free parking is available in the Weaslehead Parking lot and on the south curb lane of 66 AVE SW. The interior lots in the park will not be open to traffic. See event map for more info.
Will there be a bag check?
No, please leave your personal belongings in your vehicle.
Will there be porta lets?
Yes.
Are strollers permitted?
Yes, strollers are allowed at this event.
Can my family/friends watch?
Only registered runners are allowed in to the pre-start, start and finish area, however North Glenmore park will be open to the public so your friends and family can catch you on the course.
Can I run with my dog/pet?
We love four-legged friends and they are absolutely permitted at this dog-friendly event.
What is the start line procedure?
Runners will be pre-assigned to a specific start time, with race starts taking place from 11:30am through 4pm. Start time assignments are selected when registering for the in-person event and are limited to 75 for each wave.
To access the pre-start area, runners are encouraged to enter North Glenmore Park from the parking lot on 37th St and 66th Ave SW, or by parking on 66th Ave SW and walking into the park. Runners are permitted to enter the park prior to their assigned start time, but are strongly encouraged not to enter the pre-start area any earlier than 15 minutes prior to their assigned start time.
At the entrance to the pre-start area please visit the tent that says STEP 1, on-site EMTs will be conducting required temperature tests for all runners. Any runner with a temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher will be asked to step aside to allow for their temperature to come down. After a few minutes, the runner will be re-tested. If the runner’s temperature does not read below 100.4 degrees, they will not be allowed to enter the pre-start area or to participate in the event (**Update - Oct 20/20 - AHS has advised that we now do not need to do temperature checks). Additionally, you will hand in your COVID self-assessment, which will be given to you at curb-side pick-up. Please fill it in the night before or that morning. Then you will move to the tent with STEP 2 and hand in your COVID self-assessment form and receive your bib through dynamic bib assignment. When you have your bib you will move to the final step, STEP 3 which is the pre-start area, we will only move runners into the corral a few minutes before the start of the race.
Upon entering the corral, there will be green and orange spots on the ground to mark out where runners should stand while waiting to start their race. Runners should maintain a safe social distance at all times (a minimum of six feet from other individuals) and can proceed to the next open spot when available. Parents with young children are welcome to share a dot but please be mindful of the people around you.
Each wave will start with the 1K kids race for all the kiddos participating. Parents can run with their children on this course. When the kids race is complete (about 15 minutes) we will then begin the 5K race. Children registered in the kids race can join their parents and/or older siblings on the 5k course at no additional fee. There is no fee to switch a kids race from virtual to in-person. The race start will be in time-trial format, with two runners beginning their race every 10 seconds to allow for social distancing on the course. The race will consist of three starts of 75 runners every 75 minutes for a total of 225 runners. To ensure a safe and smooth race start process, please refrain from arriving to the pre-start area any earlier than 15 minutes before your assigned race time. We suggest that faster runners start closer to the front and slower runners/walkers start closer to the back of each wave.
What are the course amenities and procedures?
The course is a combination of road and pathways. The course will be open—with delineation (traffic cones and barricades) and volunteer course marshals—but please remember to be courteous and share the roadway with other park patrons on the pathway. There will be a lead cyclist to clear the way, so runners should stay to the right. Please pay attention to your surroundings and remember to keep your mask handy.
There will be no fluid stations and no restrooms on the course. Runners are encouraged to bring their own water bottles, hydration packs, including Camelbak® products.
What happens at the finish line?
After crossing the finish line, runners will be funnelled out to the parking lot. All runners will receive pre-bagged recovery amenities, which will include water, nuun, and a Halloween snack.
We ask that runners exit the park immediately after receiving their amenities, continuing toward the the parking lots and 66th Ave SW exit in to Lakeview.
ARE YOU A VISUAL LEARNER? CHECK OUT THIS 2-MINUTE VIDEO BY AN INDUSTRY FRIEND TO BETTER UNDERSTAND WHAT TO EXPECT.
*Please note this is just to give you an idea around new industry best practices for these covid-secure events and Run Calgary has its own protocols that aren't exactly what you see here.
The health and safety of our runners and staff remain a priority for Run Calgary as we begin our return to in-person racing. All Run Calgary staff will be practicing social distancing and wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). If you have any questions, please reach out to us at info@runcalgary.com. Thank you for your continued patience and support.
