FAQ
When does Registration open for 2020? Registration is OPEN.
When does Registration close? Online closes on Wednesday April 29 at 11:59. Packet pickup registration is available on Friday, May 1st and Saturday, May 2nd 2020.
Where can I find the Runner's World article? >>HERE
Where can I park for the event? Parking is free at Point Ruston and surrounding streets.
Is there a Military discount available? Yes, there is a $5 discount for military personnel. You will see a checkbox on the registration page. You must show your Military ID at packet pick up.
Can I switch race distances after I have signed up? Yes, you can switch distances at packet pickup. There are no refunds. If you move up in distances please be prepared to pay the price difference. Pick up your packet first and then go to the registration table where the timer will reassign your bib number.
Can an entry be transferred to someone else? No transfers, sorry no exceptions.
Is my entry fee refundable? Our policy is no refunds, no transfers to another individual or to another TCMA event, and no rollovers to the next year's race. Sorry, no exceptions.
Can I pick up someone else's race packet? Yes, as long as you have permission from them to do so. Written permission is not required.
Can I pick up my race packet on race day? Yes, you can but to avoid race day anxiety we strongly suggest picking your number up at Packet Pickup. Packet pickup will be available until 7 pm.
What time does the race start?
Saturday, May 2nd 5k 7:30 AM
Saturday, May 2nd Ghost Marathon & Half 8:30 AM
Sunday May 3rd, all races start at the same time. 6:45 AM
Can I start the marathon 1 hour early at 6:00 AM? Yes, there is an early start provided for those needing more than 6 hours to complete the Marathon or ULTRA marathon. Please check in with the timer at the start line. Early starters finishing the marathon under 5 hours or the Uultra marathon in under 6 hours will be disqualified and not given a finish time. You must need the extra time to start early. Early starters must be self-supported, know the route, and obey all traffic/pedestrian laws until officers and volunteers are on the course. You are on your own until officers and volunteers arrive on the course.
ULTRA Marathon information.
Participants who run the Michelob ULTRA distance (50k) receive a commemorative medal for completing the ULTRA. There is no additional charge to run the ULTRA Marathon. Participants wishing to run the ULTRA should register for the Marathon and check the appropriate box if interested in running the ULTRA.
Will there be professional photographers on the course? Yes, photos will be provided by CJ Photography.
Is the race Chip Timed? Yes, Chip Start, Chip Split, Chip Finish. Your timing tag is attached to the back of your race bib. In order to receive a time your race bib must be worn on the outside of your top outer garment. Avoid bending your bib which may damage the timing tag. The timing tag is disposable so it does not need to be returned.
Do you get a commemorative shirt when you sign up? Yes. The 5k receives a cotton tee. Ghost runners do not receive a tee shirt, Sunday events all receive a technical shirt.
Do you get a finisher medal? Yes, Saturday's Ghost Full & Half, Saturday's 5k, Sunday's Full, Half, and each Marathon Relay member will receive a medal, ULTRA Marathon finishers will receive and ULTRA Marathon Medal as well as Marathon finisher medal.
Can I pick up my award after the race? Yes at the results tent.
How many miles is the Tacoma City Marathon? 26.2 miles or 42,195 meters.
Can you walk the Marathon? We have a 7 hour cut off with the early start. 16 minute per mile pace with the early start.
Can you walk the Half Marathon? We have a 4 hour cut off. If the police don't think you can make it in the allotted time you may be moved to the sidewalk, the finish line will remain until you finish.
Are strollers allowed? Yes, in the 5K & Half Marathon only.
Are dogs allowed? Sorry, not for this event.
What is the average temperature for May in Tacoma? 46 low - 64 high. Find the weather forecast >>HERE.
How far is the Start from the Finish line? Both are located at Point Ruston.
Is there a gear check at the start? Yes
Are there porta-potties at the start? Yes
Are there porta-potties on the course? Yes, at all the aid stations (about every two miles).
Can I wear headphones during the race? Yes, be safe and don't turn them up so loud that you can't hear volunteers or police. We recommend leaving one earbud out. Be safe out there.
Will there be pacers? Yes, more information HERE
Are the courses USATF certified? Sunday's Marathon is a Boston Qualifier. WA18007RMB
Will there be energy gel on the course? Yes, energy gels & Nuun Electrolyte will be on the course. Locations to come.
Are we missing something? Please let us know and we will gladly make the addition. Contact Us
