Enter email and get updates








Support our
Charity Partners








Kansas City Events & Attractions

 

FAQs (continued)

Race Day Details


How far is a marathon?

26.2 miles.

 

Is the course(s) certified?

Yes they are USAT&F certified and sanctioned.

How is the race timed?

The ChampionChip® Timing System will be used.

Can I wear headphones, push strollers, or bring my dog?

Walking strollers (no jogging) will be allowed in the 5K and half.  For USAT&F Certification rules as well as insurance and safety purposes, we do not allow headphones, earbuds, iPods, radios, other hearing-obstructive devices or animals on the course.

Where can I park for the event?

The closest parking available is at Crown Center which is a shopping destination.  This is just south of the starting line and a short walk to the finish. More Parking Info

Where is the best place for family and friends to cheer?

  1. North of Starting Line (near the intersection of Pershing and Grand) Note: runners begin by running north.
  2. At the marathon relay transition points (on marathon course):
    • Transition #1 - 47th & Mill Creek Park.

    • Transition #2 - Country Club Christian Church on Ward Parkway

    • Transition #3 - Harrision St. & Emanuel Cleaver Blvd. II

  3. Just north of Finish Line on Wyandotte between Southwest Trafficway & 20th.

Is there a time limit on the event?

There is a 6 hour time limit that the course is closed and the aid stations are available. However, the police may open sections of the course to let vehicles cross when there are large gaps in the participants. Participants must maintain at least a 14 minute per mile pace to make the course deadline. Participants in the marathon that do not maintain the 14 minute pace per mile will be asked to turn onto the ½ marathon course at the course split.

What is the average weather on race day?

Day Sunrise Sunset Avg.
High
Avg.
Low
Mean Record
High
Record
Low
Oct. 18 7:33 AM 6:32 PM 67°F 47°F 57°F 89°F (1979) 27°F (1989)

Source: Weather.com

 

Is the course(s) hilly?

Our course is hilly; Kansas City is not a flat town.  While the course is flatter and faster than last year, the hills will challenge you. Thousands have completed this great course and so can you! Train for hills and the feeling at the finish line will be that much sweeter!  Course info

What is the distance between aid stations?

The aid stations are approximately every 1- 2 miles.

Is there a sports drink at the aid stations?

Yes, we have water and Gatorade.

Are there other distances other than the marathon? There is also a ½ marathon (13.1 miles) and a 5K (3.1 miles). The ½ marathon will start at the same time as the marathon (7:00 a.m.), and the 5K will immediately follow at approximately 7:30 a.m.

Are walkers allowed? YES! We do not have a separate category for walkers, but many people do walk the half and the 5K.  Walkers must be aware of the 6 hour time limit.  A minimum pace of 14 minutes per mile must be maintained to make the course.

 How many runners do you expect?

2000 in the marathon, 4500 in the ½ marathon and 1500 in the 5K.

Do you have a clothing check-in area?

Yes.  Participants will be allowed to drop off a change of clothing.  The bags will be transfered to the finish line where participants can retrieve their belongings.

 

Are there awards?

Yes, we give out awards. We will provide awards by age groups for the three events. Marathon finishers get a commemorative medal and a technical shirt.  1/2 Marathoners will get a finisher medal as well.  More

 

Will event merchandise be available?

Yes, we will be selling event merchandise at Packet Pick-Up and at the After Party.  Items will include hats, visors, windshirts, pins, water bottles, and various t-shirts. 

Will there be a post race awards celebration?

Yes, including multiple bands playing, free beverages, tents to find some shade, awards, and more.

 

Is there child care?

No, we do not offer child care.

Are there landmarks along the race course(s)?

Yes, the marathon will encompass more of the landmarks than the shorter distance races. The course goes by Sprint Center, KC Power & Light District, Union Station, Crown Center shops, the historic Westport area, and the Country Club Plaza. The course also goes down Brookside Boulevard, passes the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art, and the UMKC campus. The course also goes into the historic Hyde Park area and passes the famous 18 th & Vine Jazz district.  See the event photos page for pictures of these places, and more!

back to top

    ©2006-2007 Kansas City Sports Commission          Privacy Policy          Contact Us           Some photography provided by Action Sports Images