FAQs

Registration FAQs

I am pre-registered and cannot run; can I pick up my packet?
YES. Please inform the registration volunteer you do not plan to run, so they can remove the race BIB from the packet.

What about deferring my entry until next year? Is that allowed?
NO.

Can I pick up a packet for a friend or family member?
YES. You will be asked to sign a form with the runner’s name, your name and contact information.

Can I give my BIB (number) to a friend if I cannot run?
NO. BIB’s are non-transferable. A runner wearing a BIB that is not theirs will be disqualified and their name and time will not be recorded in the results.

Do you use disposable chips?
YES. We use B’tags … and your chip is located on your Race BIB.

Can I register day of race?
NO. On-line registration closes on the Friday prior to race weekend. Walk-up (Last Chance) registration is available Saturday at Fleet Feet 9:00 am to 3:00 pm (note that last chance registration is more costly).

What is your gender policy?
Registration options are Male/Female/Non-binary.  Athletes will be allowed to register with the gender that they identify with if they have started a medical gender transition.  Athletes who are competing for cash prizes must comply with the policies of the World Athletics Council.

Parking FAQs

When should I arrive and where can I park?
The race start / finish location is downtown Schenectady. Race participants should plan to arrive at least 1 hour prior to the 8:30 am start time. Participants who do not take advantage of “Early packet pickup”  on Saturday should plan to arrive 90 minutes prior to the start.

Baggage Check FAQs

Can I leave a gym bag or backpack at the start or finish area?
NO. Baggage Check will be offered at the Schenectady YMCA just two city blocks from the start / finish of the race.

The YMCA and race organizers are not responsible for items that may be lost during baggage check. Baggage check is primarily for storing warm clothing to be retrieved immediately after the race. Discarded clothing left at the Veterans Park staging area after the race starts will be picked up by volunteers and donated to a charity.

Valuables such as wallets/purses, jewelry, credit cards, iPhones, etc. should not be stored in these clear bags.

Other FAQs

Can I wear ear buds or headphones during the race?
We strongly discourage using headphones or any communication devices during competition. Hearing is important to your safety while running, and headphones or ear buds limit that sense.

Can I run with a stroller or a dog?
NO. Strollers and dogs (even on a leash) present potential dangers to other runners, as well as to you, your infant, or family pet. Other runners may not see your stroller or pet and trip, and your ability to avoid traffic may be impaired.