FAQ
How much does it cost to register in the events?
The full marathon after
The half marathon after
The 5K after August
The Kids' expo ½ and 1 mile is FREE
What comes with my event registration?
Registration for the in-person events includes an event comfy tee, custom race bib, post-race treats and more. All finishers of the races will receive a medal upon crossing the finish line.
What does the official race t-shirt look like?
SWAG
How is the event timed?
Back Your Badge Marathon partners with Racemaker Productions. There will be timing check points along the course that runners cross over for splits. Your bib contains your timing chip. Please ensure you wear your bib on race day!
How can I find my results?
All results can be found here: RESULTS
Where will aid stations be located and what will they have?
Aid station are located along the courses approximately every two miles. Aid stations will have water and Gatorade. First aid will be available throughout the course at various aid stations along with our mobile biking and cart-based EMS teams provided by your local EMTs and Paramedics. Aid station locations can be found on the course maps which are available by distance under the Race Info tab on our website here: COURSE
Who are the Charity Partners?
Back Your Badge Marathon is committed to help create a paramedic scholarship program, support the Plainfield Youth Assistance Program and your local public safety beneficiate funds. You can find more information here: DONATE
Is there a course cut-off?
Yes, all three distances have a separate course cutoff. 5k cutoff will be 2 hours, 1/2 marathoners cut off will be 4 hours (18 minute pace), and the full marathon cutoff is 7.5 hours (17:11 pace).
Is there an age restriction?
Yes, the 1/2 marathon and full marathon both have age restrictions. 1/2 marathon participants must be 10 years of age and full marathon participants must be 16 years of age.
Will the miles be marked on the course?
Yes.
Will there be portable bathrooms on the course?
Yes.
Are roller skates, inline skates, bikes, or strollers allowed in the events?
Please pay attention along the course. We welcome parents to push their children on the course. At times, strollers may be asked to stay to one side of the course to allow runners safe passage. Otherwise, anyone seen with any of these on the course will be immediately directed off the course.
Are pets allowed to participate in the events or allowed at the finish line?
No. For the safety and consideration of every individual, it is best if your furry friends sit this one out at home please.
Are headphones or ear buds allowed in the events?
Back Your Badge Marathon strongly discourages the use of headphones and ear buds but they are not forbidden. For your own safety, we ask that you not listen to music so that you may safely hear instructions from directors, volunteers, and police.
I'm interested in volunteering, how can I sign up?
Thank you for your interest! Sign up today: VOLUNTEER
What are the race routes?
Courses and maps are available by distance under the event tab on our website here: COURSE
Are the courses certified?
Yes, the courses will be certified by USATF. The Marathon USATF Certification number is IN23008TDK. The Half-Marathon Certification number is IN23007TDK.
Is the marathon a Boston Qualifier?
Yes, the marathon will be a Boston Qualifier.
Do you have any training resources I can use to get ready to run my race?
Plainfield has tons of places to run: WHERE TO RUN
Where and when is packet pick-up?
The event expo and packet pick-up will be held Friday, September 20, 2023 at the Richard A. Carlucci Recreation and Aquatic Center from 10am to 8pm. If you are unable to pick up your packet on during the expo, we will also have Saturday packet pick -up. Exact times and location to be announce closer to the race.
What is the refund policy?
Read more about our refund, deferral, and transfer policies REFUND POLICY
Can I change races?
Yes. Please contact the race director to change your distance. gwilliams@plainfieldfire.com
Will roads be closed during the race?
Throughout the course, runners will have a designated lane to run in. Roads will close at intersections where runners are actively crossing. Critical points on the course will be monitored by public safety to ensure the safety of all runners and motorists. Volunteer course monitors will be present along the course to ensure runners know where to go at potentially confusing spots and to add additional levels of safety. Road Closures
Will there be pacers?
Yes. We plan to have pacers for the full and half marathon distances. We have several pacers. Check out the PACERS page to see who is coming.
Is gear check available and how does it work?
For those with VIP parking or those who get one of the limited parking spots at the Richard A. Carlucci Rec Center, we recommend leaving your belongings locked in your vehicle. For those of you that get dropped off or take the shuttle to the start line, you can utilize the programable lockers near the indoor pool. You will also have the option of bringing your own lock and storing your gear in a locker inside the locker room.
What can I do to celebrate after my race?
Celebrate your finish at the Victory Party located in Talon Stream Park. More details to come!
What are the age group awards divisions and how do I find my award?
Awards will be located near the Victory Party and announced by the DJ after each event. If you need to pick up your award before they are announced, feel free to come to the table to claim your award. If you are unable to pick up your award, please email us and we can arrange for an alternative way for you to receive your award.
Overall winner awards will go to top male and top female.
Additional awards will be given to the top 3 male and female finishers in the following age divisions:
19 and under
20-29
30-39
40-49
50-59
60-69
19 and under
20-29
30-39
40-49
50-59
60-69
70+
Can I walk the race?
Absolutely, we hope to see everyone to at our race. We ask that you maintain an 17:11 per minute pace for the Marathon distance.
When does online registration close?
Online registration will remain open until the start of the events, however, there will be multiple price increases along the way.
Registration will be open thru Sunday for LATE SIGN-UPS. However, you must sign up on your computer or smartphone prior to coming to registration and packet pick up. There will be NO ONSITE COMPUTERS.
I can’t make it to packet pick-up. How can I get my packet?
Sorry, we do not mail out bibs. If you are unable to make it to packet pick-up on Friday or Saturday, we will have a very limited race morning packet pick up from 6:30am - 7:00am
Will there be medical assistance available?
Yes. Medical assistance will be provided by a great team of medical professionals from local first responders. Medical professionals will be monitoring the course and based at the finish line.
Who do I contact if my company is interested in sponsoring the event?
Email Race Director, Greg Williams gwilliams@plainfielfire.com
Do you have any hotel specials?
We are working on new hotel partnerships for 2024. Check back for updates.
Additional Questions?
Email Race Director, Greg Williams gwilliams@plainfielfire.com
