Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the City of Oaks Marathon a Boston qualifier?
- Yes. The course is USATF certified, thus making the marathon eligible for use as a Boston qualifier.
- Is the course hilly?
- Yes, relatively speaking. Of the popular marathons (Chicago, New York, Boston, Marine Corps, etc.), the City of Oaks Marathon is most like Boston. It is not a flat course like Chicago and Marine Corps, and has more hills than New York. The course scenery varies drastically during the course, going from downtown Raleigh out to Umstead State Park (which is one of the best places to run in the area and has been featured in many running magazines, including Runner's World). A full course map and elevation profile is available at http://www.cityofoaksmarathon.com/course_info.
- Will portajohns be available on the course?
- Yes. Portajohns will be available at the start/finish area and near mile makers 2, 4, 6, 8, 15, 18, 21, 22.5, and 23.5.
- Is there a time limit?
- Yes. The half marathon time limit is 3.5 hours. The marathon time limit is 7 hours. The time limits are a safety issue and apply to both runners and walkers alike. The roads on the course can only be closed for the allotted time frame.
- How many participants are expected?
- There is a limit of 2000 marathon participants and 4000 half marathon participants.
- May I wear my headphones?
- No. Per USATF rules, headphones are not permitted on the course for safety reasons.
- Are pace groups available?
- No.
- Is there a relay option?
- No. A relay option will likely be added in future years.
- Can I have someone else pick up my race packet for me?
- Yes. If you need someone else to pick up your race packet at the expo, he or she will need a photocopy of your drivers license or some other photo ID.
- Can I switch races?
- Yes. Changing races will be allowed until 10/15/08. There are no fees for changing from the marathon to half-marathon, but changing from the half marathon to the marathon will be $20.
- I have registered for this year's race, but am unable to compete. Can I get a refund or tranfer my registration to someone else?
- No. We do not offer refunds or transfers; however, you can defer your registration until next year's races. To defer, simply email before 10/1/08 stating you would like to defer and include your full name, email address, and which race you registered for. Your name will then be added to the deferred registrants list. You will need to register again next year, but your registration fee will be waived. Race deferments will only be accepted until 10/1/08—no exceptions.
