We answer our most frequently asked questions below. If your questions are not answered below, please review the detailed Runner Essentials page. You may also email our office.
Is VCM at Boston qualifier?
Yes. We send our results directly to BAA.
Do you have a half marathon?
No, but we do have a Half & Half Relay. Each runner in a Half & Half Relay runs a half marathon, receives an individual time and a medal.
Should I purchase race insurance?
Yes, we recommend it.
Does the course have a time limit?
Yes. 6 hours, which is the equivalent to a 13:45 minute-per-mile pace.
Is the Vermont City Marathon “walker friendly?”
Yes, but only if you will finish within our 6-hour time limit. Your walking pace needs to be 13:45 minute-per-mile pace or faster.
Do you allow early starts for walkers/slower runners?
No. Our course layout and city permit do not allow for early start. Consider joining a relay team!
Do I get a medal?
Yes, all marathoners get a finishers medal as they cross the finish line. They are really cool!
What kind of race nutrition is available on course?
Gatorade Endurance Formula- Lemon Lime is at all fluid stations. We also have several aid stations that include sports gel. As information is available we will post details on what type of sports gel and food here.
Can my family bike or run along with me while I race?
No, the course is for registered runners only. But we encourage your family to come out and cheer!
I am a pretty fast runner- how do I get into the preferred start corral?
You must submit a qualifying time of 3:20:00 or faster (marathon), 1:35:00 or faster (half marathon) or 43:00 or faster (10k) from a USATF Certified Course or Athletics Canada Certified. The race date must be between January 1, 2017, and May 5, 2019. You may submit a qualifying time at registration or via email. The deadline for submitting a time is May 10, 2019.
Where can I park on race day?
There is lots of parking in Burlington- we recommend looking at the City of Burlington Parking page for more information.
What can I do with my pre and post-race clothing during the race?
We have a gear check located in Battery Park at the Start and we transfer your gear down to Waterfront Park for you to pick-up post-race. We strongly discourage leaving any type of valuables in your checked gear. Can someone pick up my race packet for me at the EXPO?
Yes. We do allow a proxy – they will need to present a copy of the runner’s photo ID or a copy of the runner’s confirmation email.
Is there packet pick-up on Sunday?
Yes. Packet pick-up is available at the RunVermont offices, One Main Street, Burlington (2 blocks from the Start) from 5:00am-6:00am Pick-up will close at 6:00am SHARP, and packets are NOT be available at the Start.
Why are shirt sizes not guaranteed?
Shirts are ordered months in advance and long before final registration numbers are available. Despite our efforts to estimate the number of shirts we need in each size, we cannot guarantee shirt sizes. Shirts are available on a first-come, first-served basis at packet pick-up. Check out the Shirt Swap booth at the Expo and you may be able to swap your shirt for a different size.
What hotels do you recommend?
We work with a variety of local hotels and they are listed on our Area Guide page. There are also many other hotels and other lodging options in the Burlington area.
Which hotels have shuttle service to and from the race?
Non-downtown hotels listed on our website have shuttle service to and from the race. Look for the shuttle icon on the Lodging page.
Can non-runners use the hotel shuttles to the start?
Shuttles are reserved for runners – if there is room before the shuttle leaves, then family and friends may take it.
How do I get back to my hotel after the race?
Hotel Shuttles run after the race departing from the south end of waterfront park at the Pease Parking lot.
What is the minimum age for participating in the full Marathon?
All participants in the Marathon must be 16 years old or older on race day. More Info
Are headphones allowed?
Headphones are not allowed for competitors competing for prize money and RRCA/USATF awards. If you choose to wear headphones and finish in a money-winning place, you may be subject to forfeiture of prize money and RRCA/USATF awards.
What do you use for a timing device? How do I wear it?
We use the ChronoTrack B-Tag. B-Tags are attached to the back of each runner’s bib and transmit data as the runner crosses the timing mats at the start, finish and along the course. Instructions here on how to wear your bib/B-Tag.
Can a marathoner also run on one or more relay teams?
Yes. The registered marathoner must also be registered as a teammate on whichever team(s) s/he is running on. Read our Relay-Marathoner Scenario INFO SHEET for details on which bibs to wear and where to exchange.
Does VCM offer designated “pacer groups”?
Yes. We will have additional, specific information about our pace leaders closer to the race. For the most up-to-date information, visit the Runner Essentials page.
What do pace team leaders/pacers do?
Pacers are experienced runners that lead a team of runners who are trying to hit a goal between 3:15-5:30.
I’m interested in being a pacer- how do I get more info?
Contact Joe Connelly and asked to be considered as a pace team leader.
