FAQs

1. Is it safe and secure to register over the internet?

YES! The Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon has partnered with Active.com who is a leader in online registration. Their website is safe, easy and secure. They guarantee that your personal information will be safe.

2. What if I sign up for one event, but my training doesn't go as planned?

During the Health and Fitness Expo on race weekend (May 16 & 17, 2008, Cleveland Convention Center) you can change the event you are entered in by visiting the Solutions Booth.

3. How do you time the events?

The Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon, Half Marathon & 10K will be switching in 2008 to ChronoTrack’s patented “D” timing tag, which allows race organizers to print an integrated bib and tag for each participant, encoding the runner’s bib number into the tag’s RFID chip at the time of printing. The peel-off, disposable portion of the bib becomes a tag that runners attach to their shoes. ChronoTrack’s tag solution is lighter than previous timing methods, and is disposable. Runners no longer need to “tag check” their timing devices before the race and can dispose of the tag after they have finished competing.

4. Can I use my own timing chip?

No. Because we are no longer using ChampionChip timing services, all participants must use the ChronoTrack timing tag that will be provided to them at packet pick-up during the Expo.

5. Can I wear headphones on the course?

No. USA Track & Field (USATF), the governing body for long distance running in the United States, recently adopted a new safety rule (#144.3b) banning the use of headphones and other music devices at all USATF-sanctioned running events. Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon is a USATF-sanctioned event and, for the safety of runners on streets with moving traffic, to comply with insurance policies, and to comply with USATF rules, headphones, iPods, MP3 Players, etc. are not permitted on the Cleveland course. Please click here to learn more.

6. What is included in my entry fee?

Every participant will receive a short-sleeved shirt and goody bag. Marathoners and half marathoners also receive a finisher's medal. Additionally, entry fees are used to ensure that the course is free of cars and safe for all participants. Also, there is water and PowerAde at every Hydration Station on course, and refreshments at the finish line.

7. I registered for the Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon, Half Marathon or 10K and now I am unable to run. Can I get my money back? Can I transfer to 2008?

We are sorry, but we are unable to refund entry fees and we are unable to transfer registrations to another year. You may switch races up through the Health and Fitness Expo, however.

8. Can I give my entry to my friend?

No. Due to USATF rules and regulations, each participant must register themselves and sign their own waiver.

9. What is the Health and Fitness Expo? Do I have to go? Does it cost money?

The Health and Fitness Expo is FREE and open to participants, their friends and family, and the general public. The Expo will be held on Friday and Saturday May 16 & 17, 2008 at the Cleveland Convention Center. Each registered participant is required to attend to pick up their race bib and timing chip, t-shirt and goody bag. Additionally, the expo is a great place to get great deals on shoes and clothing, meet running legends, sample new products and more. Check back on the web site for speaker schedules, vendor info and more.

10. Can I pick up my race packet on race day?

No, there is no packet pickup race day. All packets must be picked up at the Health and Fitness Expo.

11. Does Rite Aid own this event?

No, Rite Aid Pharmacy is the title sponsor of the event and through their support we are able to put on this event year after year.

12. Who are the other sponsors of the event?

We are thrilled to partner with the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, American Greetings, Coke, ASICS and more. To see the full list of sponsors, please click here.

13. Is there something for my kids to do?

YES! On Saturday May 17, 2008 at 3:30pm the Kids' Run will take place at the Great Lakes Science Center. Distances are based upon the child's age, but everyone receives a commemorative t-shirt and finisher's medal. There will also be food, drinks, face painting, clowns and more fun for the whole family. For more information, click on our Kids' Run page.

14. What can my family do while waiting for me to finish?

For the second year, we will be holding the 26.3 Mile Rock Party presented by the Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame. Located at the finish line - there will be live music, food, drinks, give aways, games and more beginning at 8:30 a.m.! Family and friends are also encouraged to line the course to cheer for runners.

15. On my registration my name is misspelled, my age is wrong, I have moved, etc. Now what?

No problem! Just let us know at the Solutions Booth at the Health and Fitness Expo and we will make the changes.

16. I won't be able to participate; can I still pick up my t-shirt?

YES! Please stop by the Health and Fitness Expo on Friday or Saturday and pick up your bib, t-shirt and goody bag.

17. I have a friend who would like to volunteer, can they help?

YES! We always need an extra set of hands! Please email jonifreese@yahoo.com for dates, times and roles.

Cleveland Marathon Homepage

26.3 Mile Finish Line Rock Party