Frequently Asked Questions

Please see below for Steamboat Marathon frequently asked questions. If you have additional questions please email marathon@steamboatchamber.com.

General FAQ

Q: IS THE STEAMBOAT MARATHON A BOSTON MARATHON QUALIFYING RACE?

A: Yes, because our course is USATF (USA Track and Field) certified, our race is a Boston qualifier.

Q: WILL THE 2021 RACE HAPPEN?

A: As of April 5, The Steamboat Marathon and 10K races will take place in person on June 6. The Half Marathon has shifted to a Virtual Challenge. Read the full update from our Race Director here.

Q: WHAT HAPPENS IF THE IN-PERSON RACE DOES NOT TAKE PLACE?

A: If current conditions and regulations prevent an in-person race from taking place, registered participants will be transferred to the 2021 Virtual Challenge.

Q: WHAT HEALTH & SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WILL BE TAKEN TO PROTECT PARTICIPANTS AND VOLUNTEERS?

A: We are working with our partners, including Routt County Public Health, the City of Steamboat Springs, and the state of Colorado, to identify and implement all appropriate safety precautions. An in-person race will look differently in 2021. Visit our Runner Safety page for more details.

Q: HOW WILL YOU KEEP RUNNERS INFORMED?

A: Make sure you are signed up for Steamboat Marathon emails and follow us on Instagram for updates. 

Q: How do I get to Steamboat by air?

A: Yampa Valley Regional Airport is 30 minutes from Steamboat Springs. You can fly into YVRA from Denver with connections across the country and around the world. You can also fly direct into Denver International Airport and rent a car or hire a shuttle service to Steamboat Springs.

Registration FAQ

Q: IS MY REGISTRATION FEE REFUNDABLE?

A: No. Entry fees are not refundable. As a not-for-profit organization, we make every effort to work with local partners, vendors, and staff to produce the best race possible. We have a no-refund policy to preserve our ability to pay and support these organizations and people for the year-round work that goes into planning and producing the race. 

Q: If I find that I can’t run for whatever reason, may I transfer my bib number to my friend?

A: Yes. You are able to transfer your registration via Events.com. Click here to download instructions. There will be a $10 transfer fee.

Q: Can I switch between races?

A: You are welcome to transfer races if space is available by following these instructions. There will be a $10 transfer fee (plus the difference between races if transferring up) for changing races after April 14. Please note that we will not refund the difference in price if you choose to move down.

Q: I just found out I’m pregnant/injured and can’t run, how do I defer my registration?

A: If you are injured and unable to run you may defer your race registration. 2021 Half Marathon runners are able to defer their registration for free April 5 – April 14. After that date, there will be a $10 deferral fee until May 1. After May 1 the fee is $20. You can defer from the race by following these instructions. After June 4, no deferrals will be accepted.

It is the runner’s responsibility to defer and re-register. We will not automatically register you for the next year’s race. You will be contacted via email with a code to register when the 2022 race registration opens. 

Q: How do I select my t-shirt size, update my address or make an update to my registration?

A: If you need to make an update to your registration, follow these instructions.

Race Weekend FAQ

Q: What do I need to carry on race day?

A: Our course is on a country road that is open to traffic. We place aid stations where we safely can, but you may find that you need water between stations. We strongly encourage runners to carry water.

Q: Can I bring my baby stroller or dog to any of the race courses?

A: No. Due to other runners and the county roads being open to local traffic we do not allow strollers or dogs on the courses. 

Q: CAN I DRIVE TO THE START OF MY RACE INSTEAD OF TAKING THE BUS?

A: No. Due to safety concerns and no parking available, we strongly advise against driving yourself to the full start.

Q: WHAT IF I CAN’T MAKE IT TO PACKET PICK-UP?

A: A friend or relative can pick up your packet, but they must have your e-mail confirmation. There will be no race day packet pick-up. No Exceptions.

Spectator Information

Q: Is it okay for my friend, parent or spouse to ride their bike alongside me while I run?

A: We strongly advise against it. The roads are technically open to traffic, but we prefer there to be no bikes on the course. For safety considerations, we ask that everyone leave their bikes at home.

Q: Where’s the best place for my family and friends to watch me run?

A: Due to current health and safety restrictions, spectating for this year's race will be limited. Stay tuned for more details as we get closer to race day.

Virtual Challenge FAQ

Q: How do I participate in the Virtual Challenge costume contest?

A: We are taking it back to the ‘80s! Don your best 80s wear and post a picture of yourself on Instagram. Tag @steamboatmarathon and use the hashtags #steamboatmarathonvirtual by June 6^th. Winners announced June 8^th on the Steamboat Marathon Instagram and will receive a gift card to the Residence Inn at Steamboat Springs, Smartwool socks, and more!

Q: When is the Virtual Challenge?

A: The Virtual Challenge will begin on May 31 at 5 a.m. and you have until June 6 at midnight to complete the challenge.

How do I register for the Virtual Challenge?

A: Half marathon runners who do not choose to switch to the full or 10k distances or defer to 2022 will automatically be registered for the virtual challenge.

Full marathon and 10k participants who would like to join the virtual challenge can do so by following these instructions.

I am registered for the Virtual Challenge. What is next?

A: You will receive an email from our virtual challenge event within 48 hours of your registration with instructions on how to claim your challenge entry. Simply log in following the instructions in the email and you will be included in the Virtual Challenge!

What is included with my virtual challenge registration?

A: Participants will receive a finisher medal*, t-shirt, towel, Honey Stinger, and access to all the challenge features including a race bib and online tracking.

*Consistent with the in-person race, 10k runners do not receive a finisher medal.

How do I log my activity?

A: Once you are connected with your event you can open the Connections section in your profile to connect your EveryChallenge account with popular GPS devices and apps. Doing this has the benefit of automatically syncing your activities straight from the watch/app into your virtual event with no manual steps in between.

You can also do a manual entry of your activities if you don't have, or don't want to use a GPS watch or app.

NOTE: To earn a Virtual Challenge Award such as Top Male or Female in each distance, activity must be logged and connected with a GPS device.

Where can I complete my race?

A: The Virtual Challenge can be completed on any road, trail, or even treadmill. Please follow all rules and regulations for the route you chose and practice safe social distancing.

When will I receive my race swag?

A: Your race packet will be mailed in May.

Can I change my address or shirt size?

Virtual runners can edit any registration information in their profile. Please make final changes by April 30. Click here to learn how to access and make changes in your profile.