Frequently asked questions
Registration and General Information
Race
Course
After the Finish Line
If you have a question not answered in this section, please contact Melinda Blay at mblay@ehendrick.org
Registration and General Information
When can I register?
Registration is currently open. Registration closes October 14 at 11:59 p.m. PST. Register today at active.com.
Can I register on race day?
There is no race day registration. Registrations will not be accepted after Sunday, October 14.
Do you offer refunds?
Unfortunately, we are unable to give refunds; there are no transfers. You will still receive your T-shirt in the mail if you need to withdraw from the race.
Is there a cap on entries for the Marathoning for Miracles?
There is no limit to the number of runners. Invite your friends!
Where do I pick up bib/goodie bag?
This year we will be mailing your packet, including the bib and goodie bag, so you don’t have to worry about picking up your packet beforehand. Make sure your registration includes a current physical address. You should receive your packet on or around October 28; if you have not received it by this date, please contact us at 325-670-6557.
Is there an age limit?
Full marathon runners must be 18 years of age or older. Half marathon runners must be 16 years of age or older. The 5K and kid's fun run are open to all ages.
Is there a pasta dinner?
We know you need your carbs! Join us Friday, November 2, from 5 – 8 p.m. for the Carb Up Chow Down pasta dinner hosted by Cypress Street Station and Abilene Brewing Company. One dinner ticket is included with each marathon and half marathon registration. Additional ickets are $20 per person and may be purchased in advance. Tickets must be purcahsed by Monday, October 22. To purchase tickets, e-mail Wanda Howell and whowell@ehendrick.org.
Are there hotels within walking distance of the start/finish line?
No, the closest hotel is at least several miles away, and we will not offer shuttle services. You will need to drive to the Expo Center, where there is plenty of close, free parking.
MCM Elegante Suites, located at 4250 Ridgemont Drive, is the official hotel of Marathoning for Miracles. For reservations, call 325.698.1234 and ask them for the Marathoning for Miracles rate, $99 plus tax per night.
What is the course?
http://www.marathoningformiracles.com/race/maps.htm
Is there anything new this year?
In 2012, we're adding a 5K and kid's fun run to Marathoning for Miracles. However, we will not be including a relay. We encourage our past relay runners to participate in the 5K or half marathon.
Where can I watch the race?
We have several spectator viewing sites along the course. Please be mindful of driving to these locations and try using an alternate route beside the actual course. We would like to keep all runners safe!
Viewing Sites:
Lytle South Baptist Church -
1125 East Industrial Blvd.
Potosi Baptist Church -
2826 Potosi Road
Potosi Water Supply -
734 FM 1750
Tigé Boats -
1801 Hwy 36
When and where is the race?
Saturday, November 3
Race begins at 7:30 a.m. with staggered start times for each event.
Course starts and ends at Taylor County Expo Center.
Are there corrals?
We won’t have corrals, but aim to line up according to your expected pace. If you plan on racing, toe the line. It’s best for all runners if slower runners are at the back of the pack. Your time will be recorded by your chip, which means your time will start when you cross the line, not when the gun goes off.
Is there a bag check?
Since we have such convenient and close-in-proximity parking, we won’t be offering bag check. If you get to the race 30-60 minutes ahead of time you’ll have plenty of time to scope out the scene, warm-up and leave your belongings in your car or with family/friends and make it back to the finish line.
How early do I get there? Where do I park?
The start/finish line for the full, half and relay are at the Taylor County Expo Center. Please arrive 30–60 minutes in advance so you can get good parking and take care of last-minute necessities. There is ample parking, but the sooner you get there, the closer you’ll park! On the other hand, it could be a good jog to warm you up for the race!
Is the Marathon for Miracles course a Boston Marathon qualifier?
Yes, the course is a certified, Boston Marathon qualifying event.
Will there be race photos?
Yes, we will capture your hard efforts on the road so you can display them proudly.
Can I wear an iPod/MP3 player?
Yes, although we ask that you keep one free ear so you can be aware of your surroundings and listen for other runners, as well as cars that may be along the course. Safety is first, but we want you to have fun!
Where are the restrooms along the course?
Two portable restrooms will be located approximately every three miles. Restrooms will be marked on each course map.
Where are drink stations?
Water and Powerade will be offered approximately every 1.5 miles. Pretzels will be available approximately every five miles.
Are there pacers?
We will not have pacers. However, we encourage you to talk to other runners and start-out pacing with those with similar goals.
How long will the course be supported?
The course will be supported until 2 p.m. on race day.
Who gets a medal?
All runners will receive a medal after crossing the finish line.
Is there an awards ceremony?
While we won’t have an official awards ceremony, we will have a table where you can check your times and where placers can receive their awards.
Will there be food after the race?
Yes, we’ll make sure you have plenty of recovery food and drinks after you cross the finish line!
Where do the proceeds go?
All proceeds benefit Hendrick Children's Hospital, a Children’s Miracle Network Hospital.