Thompson Island Outward Bound 4K Trail Run

Wed May 24 - Thu May 25 Boston, MA 02210 US

4K Trail Run FAQ

What does the race support?

Great Question. Click here to learn more about the programs on Thompson Island that the 4K Trail Run supports.

What is the Event Schedule?

  • 3:00 PM – Runners arrive at docks
  • 4:00 PM – Ferry Depart for Thompson Island
  • 4:30 PM – Arrive on Thompson Island, get settled and warmed up
  • 5:00 PM – Race Begins
  • 5:30 PM – Post Race Celebration with BBQ Dinner & Beer
  • 6:00 PM – Awards Ceremony
  • 7:00 PM – Ferry departs back to Boston
  • 7:30 PM – Arrive in Boston

What COVID-19 Guidelines will be in place?

Thompson Island Outward Bound is committed to the safety of our students, guests, and staff. We are diligently following all CDC, State of Massachusetts, City of Boston, and Outward Bound USA guidelines and adhering to any city and state regulations on gatherings and physical distancing. For detailed information on our current safety practices, please visit here.

I'm on a Corporate Sponsors Team, how do I register?

If you are racing with a Corporate Sponsor Team, email your captain for registration codes prior to signing up. In person spots have a special link, and virtual runners will have specific links for registration. Check out the teams here to find your captain, and they will have the links to join the team. 

How do I get my bib? 

If you are on a corporate team, you need to check with your Team Captain, they can be found on your Team's Page here. They are in charge of distributing bibs to the team runners. If you are running as a member of the ISLE Society team or Thompson Island Partners team your bibs will be distributed at the registration table on the race day.

What if I miss the ferry?

Unfortunately, if you miss the ferry there is no convenient alternative to get the island. The only option is a private water taxi, which costs about $200. We recommend arriving at 3:30 PM to ensure you don’t miss the ferry.

Will the event be cancelled if it rains?

No, we are Outward Bound – rain will just make the race more fun! The event site for the post-race party is partially covered.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

We offer gluten-free and vegetarian options with the meal.

Can I give my bib to someone else?

Yes, they must fill out a Day-of Bib Substitution Form. The new runner must bring the completed form and your assigned bib with them to the race. Volunteers will be available to collect these forms at the dock. Please make sure to fill out and turn in the form, as runners running under someone else’s name will be disqualified.

Is there a place for me to store my gear, wallet, etc? 

We don’t have a formal bag check, but we do have a space in our gymnasium that runners can use to store their gear. We encourage runners to leave valuables at home or in the office as they are not needed for the race.

Do I have to run or can I walk the course? 

You can definitely walk the course. It’s a beautiful 2.5 mile walk around the island.

I'm not a runner, can I come as a spectator?

Yes, but we do require all participants to have a bib to get on the ferry. So you will need to register for a spot & bib through your corporate team. You do not have to run, but must have a bib to get on the island.

Can I bring my kids?

No, unfortunately this is a 21+ event. Beer is included with the entry fee, so we must require all attendees to be 21.

What is the course record?

Mark McDermott holds the record. In 2012, Mark ran the course in 12 minutes and 39 seconds. In 2018, Tara Dooley finished the race in 13 minutes and 14 seconds, breaking the fastest female record, previously held by Renee Knapp, who in 2009 finished the race in 14 minutes and 49 seconds.

What awards are given at the race?

The following awards will be presented on both days:

  • Individual Runners: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place for top male and female runners
  • Corporate Team Challenge: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place for top teams (Top 10 runners will get prizes)
  • Top Co-Ed Team: Fastest 2 male and fastest 2 female runner scores will create your co-ed team score (Top 6 runners will get prizes)
  • Top Individual and Team Fundraisers

How are the Corporate Teams scored?

Every runner’s time on your team is logged. Your top 6 scores creates the team score, and we award medals to those fastest 10 runners on the top 3 teams.

How is the top Co-Ed team scored?

The top co-ed team is scored by taking the scores of your top 2 male runners and your top 2 female runners. The fastest 6 runners are awarded medals and the team gets a trophy.

Can I bring my dog?

No, for this event we do not allow pets on the Island.

Can I use my personal boat to get to Thompson Island?

No, our docks are reserved for our ferry and the Boston Harbor City Cruise ferries only during the race. We simply don’t have enough space for personal vessels.

When do I get my race t-shirt?

When you cross the finish line on Race Day you will be able to pick-up your race t-shirt.

 

   

If you continue to use this site, you consent to use all cookies. We use cookies to offer you a better browsing experience. Read how we use cookies and how you can control them by visiting our Privacy Policy.

If you continue to use this site, you consent to use all cookies.