FAQ
HELP & FAQ
Will late registration be available?
We hope the race will fill up before race day, and if it does there will NOT be late registration available on race weekend.
Where do we park on race day?
The race starts and finishes in the Webber Sports Complex (ballfield) off Lincoln Street in Thompsonville. Trail-side parking is available in the ballfield or one block over in downtown Thompsonville. Parking is also available at Crystal Mountain Resort just 1.5 miles from the trailhead.
How hilly is the course?
All courses are flat and fast.
What are the age groups for awards?
The following age groups apply for male and female for all events: 14 and under, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75 and older
What kind of food & drink will be at the aid stations? Will there be cups?
Runners are highly encouraged to carry hydration packs or handheld water bottles to fill at aid station and to avoid using single use cups. Compostable cups will be provided as needed. Stations will be stocked with first aid, water, Gatorade and crackers. Restrooms indicated below. Aid stations and restroom locations are approximate on the map and subject to change.
Half Marathon
- Mile 1.5- Aid Station and restroom
Mile 3.0- Aid station - Mile 5.0 – Aid Station and restroom
- Mile 6.5 – Aid Station TURN AROUND POINT
- Mile 8.0- Aid Station and restroom
- Mile 10.0- Aid Station
- Mile 12.0 Aid Station and Restroom
10K
- Mile 1.5- Aid Station and restroom
Mile 3.0- Aid station-TURN AROUND POINT - Mile 5.0 – Aid Station and restroom
5k
- Mile 1.5 -Aid Station and Restroom – TURN AROUND POINT
May I walk? Is there a time limit?
Yes, you may walk! The course closes for all races at 12 p.m., which is a 4-hour limit for the half marathon. Athletes that are on course past the closure time may be pulled from the course. We don’t offer an early start option for any of the distances.
Are the roads closed to vehicle traffic?
No. All roads are open to vehicle traffic on race day, but the majority of the race takes place on the Betsie River Trail. Volunteers and/ or police will be stationed at road crossings to aid in athlete crossing, but athletes should be prepared to stop if needed and always look for traffic.
Can I pick up a packet for my friend/family member?
You may pick up a packet for family members or friends, but in an effort to keep our event safe and secure, you must present a copy of their ID (a photo works great). Have your friend/family member text/email you a photo of their ID, and bring that with you to packet pick up and you’ll be good to go.
What is the minimum age to participate?
The minimum age to participate in the half marathon is 12 years old. The 10k and 5k is open to all ages. Be aware that everyone 14 and under is grouped together in one age category.
Are there finisher medals?
Yes, All Half Marathon, 10k and 5k finishers will receive a finisher medal. The 1 Mile Fun Run finishers receive a sticker and are entered into a drawing for a $100 gift certificate.
Is there a race shirt?
Yes! You have the option to skip the tee and plant a tree instead. North Mitten events will provide you with a Sugar Maple Sapling at packet pick up to take home and plant or North Mitten will plant it for you! Trees are limited! Or if you don't want or plan to use the tee you can choose NONE and more proceeds benefit the Betsie Valley Trail. .
Are spectators allowed along the course?
Yes! Runners start and finish at the Webber Sports Complex inside the ballfield. The set up offers a perfect photo opportunities for finishers. While there is access to the Trail at the road crossings indicated on the Trail map, there is no designated parking between Beulah and Thompsonville. Spectators are asked to use caution when parking along the road. Spectators are encouraged to cheer runners at the Haze Road and Landis Rd crossings.
Are strollers or dogs allowed in the race?
Strollers and dogs are allowed at the event but sorry not on course.
Is there a virtual option to this race?
At this time we are not offering a virtual option and only offering the in person race. Run with us!
What is the refund policy?
The Betsie Valley Trail Half Marathon, 10k & 5K is not able to offer refunds for any reason. We offer all participants the opportunity to transfer their registration to another person or event, change their distance or defer to next year. This includes those who experience illness, injury or any other condition that may prevent them from participating in the event. Race registration is non-refundable.
How do I transfer or defer my registration?
You may transfer from one event distance to another until September 17th as long as space remains. There are no refunds for entry fee difference and there are no transfers after registration closes on September 17th. Log into your runsignup account and edit registration. Use switch event tab.
May I defer my registration to next year?
Yes, you may transfer from this year to next year until September 1st for a $10 fee. Log into your runsignup account and edit registration. Use Defer Registration tab.
May I transfer my bib to another person?
Yes, you may transfer your bib to another person until September 1st for a $10 fee. Log into your runsignup account and edit registration. Use Participant Transfer tab.
