Frequently Asked Questions
Modesto Marathon, Half, 10K & 5K
What address should I put in my GPS for directions?
For directions to the Packet Pickup, race start, and finish, use: 1325 11th St, Modesto, CA. The race start and finish are a block away from each other with the ShadowChase Running Club office near both.
Where do I park?
City parking lots can be found at the corner of 11th & L streets (entrance on L Street) and at the corner of 11th & K streets (entrance on L Street). Parking is $1 per hour.
There is also ample nearby street parking near the race start and Packet Pickup Hall.
Is there race day packet pick up?
Packets can be picked up starting at 6:00AM on race morning. Check out the finish area map to see where to pick up your packet.
When does online registration close?
Online registration closes on Friday, March 24th, 2023 at midnight. Don’t wait, prices increase the closer it gets to race day.
Are dogs allowed on the course?
Service animals are allowed on the course. For the safety of other runners and your pets, no other dogs are allowed on the course.
Are children allowed on the course?
Children in strollers are allowed on the course at no additional charge. Only the paid runner gets swag, though. For the safety of other runners and your child, we ask that runners with strollers line up near the back of the starting chute.
Children who are paid participants of the race (accompanied by a parent) will get swag.
What is included with race entry?
ALL participants, including 10K & 5K, also receive a shirt, swag item, and finisher medal.
What do I need to have to pick up my race bib?
You need to have your photo ID to pick up your race bib.
Can someone else pick up my bib for me?
You can have someone else pick up your bib and packet at the Packet Pickup. Please send them with a copy of your photo ID and a completed Packet Pick Up Authorization form.
What is the typical temperature on race day?
Race day weather conditions have varied greatly from year to year. Such is the case with most Spring marathons.
For March, the average high in Modesto is 69 degrees. The average low is 46 degrees. Average rainfall is 2.05 inches.
What is the policy on wearing headphones on the course?
Choosing to use an audio device will NOT result in disqualification, but you may compromise your safety and that of others by wearing a headset.
In accordance with the guidelines set by USATF and the Road Runner’s Club of America, we recommend that you do not use headphones during the events. If wearing an audio device results in you being unable to hear verbal instructions or commands, approaching vehicles or course officials, you may be asked to relinquish the device.
How long is the course open?
The course is open for 7 hours, closing at 2:00PM.
What happens if I am unable to complete the race within the 7 hour cutoff time?
Permits require that we reopen streets by specific times. If you exceed the cutoff time , you must proceed on the road shoulders or sidewalks, and you are subject to pedestrian traffic laws.
Where will aid stations be located?
Aid stations will be located at the following points along the course. See the Course page for exact aid station locations.
Will gels be available on the course?
GU Energy gels will be available at select aid stations. Flavors details TBD.
See the Course page for exact locations.
Will there be port-a-potties on the course?
Yes, every aid station will have port-a-pottie.
Will electrolyte drink be available on the course?
Electrolytes will be served at most aid stations. This year will be IV2 Hydration.
See the Course page for details.
Will there be photographers at the race?
Captivating Sports Photos will have photographers at the start, on the course, and at the Finish Line Festival. These photos are FREE!
Photos will also be available for free download 1-2 weeks after the race. The download link will be posted to our website and social media when ready.
Where can spectators view their runners?
Course maps will be available at the Expo. The course access map and street time closures are also online at: https://modestomarathon.com/race/course/.
Where can age group winners pick up their awards?
Age-group awards can be picked up at the awards booth at the Finish Line Festival. There will be no awards ceremony.
Will there be a gear check (drop bags)?
Gear check will be available near the start line. Bags can be collected after the race from the gear check tent at the Finish Line Festival.
Please do not put valuables in the gear check bags.
Will wheelchair athletes and assisted teams be allowed to compete?
We will have divisions for wheelchair athletes and assisted teams. Starting time for those divisions is 6:55AM.
Where do I put my race bib?
For the benefit of our timing system and race officials, please make sure your bib is visible on the front of your body.
Can I still register at the Packet Pickup?
Registration is available at the Packet Pickup. A race shirt may not be available, though. After the race, bring your bib to the information booth at the Finish Festival to see if a leftover shirt in your size is available.
Can I sell or give my registration to another person?
While online registration is open, you can transfer your entry to another person on the Race Registration Update page. There is a $10 fee for transferring an entry. You must find your own person to transfer your entry to.
At the Packet Pickup, have the new runner fill out a registration form and then go to the Solutions Desk to make the switch.
Where is race day registration?
Race day registration will be at the Information Booth in the Finish Line Festival. Registration opens at 6:00AM and closes at 6:45AM sharp for the Full, Half & Relay. Registration closes at 7:00AM sharp for the 5k.
Runners will receive a race bib, official timing, course aid and finish line food & drinks, but will not be guaranteed race swag.
What if I want to change distances?
You can change distances from your RunSignUp.com account. (Here are directions.) Online changes close at midnight on the Monday before registration closes.
At the Expo, pick up your bib and shirt. Then visit our Solutions Desk to make the change. You can swap shirts after the change is made.
* There is a $10 fee for changing distances.
Can my bib be mailed to me?
Bibs must be picked up at the Packet Pickup or on race day. No mailing services are offered.
Is there a minimum age requirement for runners?
Anyone under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
What is the cancellation policy?
All registrations are final and no refunds will be given.
What is virtual running?
Virtual running allows you to run the event remotely and still receive your shirt, swag item, and finishers medal in the mail shortly after the event.
What’s the deadline to sign up to be a virtual runner?
The virtual race registration will close on Friday 3/24/2023. Once online registration is closed, you may not sign up to run virtually.
Who can sign up to run virtually?
Anyone is eligible to sign up for any virtual distance offered.
Are there age group awards for the virtual race?
There aren’t any awards for the virtual race.
Do I need to report my proof or time that I ran?
Times or proof of running is not necessary. The virtual run is on the honor system.
Can I change from the virtual race to the actual race or vice versa?
You can change between the virtual race and actual race change prior to online registration closing at midnight on the Monday before registration closes. Go to your RunSignUp account to switch races.
Where can I pick up my volunteer instructions and volunteer packet?
Come to the Packet Pickup. There will be a volunteer booth in the lobby with your instructions and packet. Your volunteer coordinator may contact you prior to the Packet Pickup if necessary.
What should I wear as a volunteer?
If working outside, please make sure to wear layers as the weather is unpredictable this time of year.
What about food as a volunteer?
It is best to bring a snack or lunch as you may not be able to leave your position until after your shift. Volunteers can also, receive food at our VIP tent when their shift permits.
Can I secure my valuables while I work as a volunteer?
We aren’t able to provide any secure storage. It is best to leave valuables at home or carry them on your person.
What happens to clothing left on the course?
Clothing left at the start line will be held at the CrossPoint Church lost & found for 30 days. Items unclaimed at that point will be donated.
Clothing found on the course will be donated immediately following the race.
