Frequently Asked Questions
Pre-Event Questions
How do I know if I am registered?
Confirmation of your race entry will be e-mailed to you once payment has been processed. Printed confirmation or photo id is required at the race package pick-up. To ensure your entry has been received, click here to request confirmation from our registration partner EventsOnline or visit the Running Room online to review your race profile.
Is this a Boston Qualifier?
Yes. The Scotiabank Calgary Marathon is a registered AIMS Marathon, certified by Athletics Canada - which makes a Boston Qualifier. For more details on qualifying visit www.bostonmarathon.com.
How many people are expected to participate this year?
We are expecting approximately 11,000 people to participate in the five events of the 2012 Scotiabank Calgary Marathon.
Are there age restrictions for the events?
Yes. Scotiabank Calgary Marathon - participants must be 16 years of age or older on race day.
Centaur Subaru Half Marathon - participants must be 14 years of age or older on race day.
How far is a marathon?
42.195 kilometres or 26.2 miles.
How far is a half-marathon?
21.0975 kilometres or 13.1 miles.
How do I get my race package, bib, chip?
You can pick up your race package, which will have everything you need and more at the Health and Wellness Expo. Bring your friends and family members with you as there will be plenty to see!
Thursday, May 24: 4 - 8 p.m.
Friday, May 25: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday, May 26: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
The Big Four, Stampede Park
1410 Olympic Way SE, Calgary, AB T2G 2W1
*Printed confirmation or picture ID is required for package pick-up.
Where can I get a map?
You can view and download a map for each race in the Race Info section. Updated maps are also included in race package and extra copies will be available at the Health and Wellness Expo. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the course.
Will I get a t-shirt?
All marathon, half marathon 10k and 5k participants will receive a technical shirt (short sleeve for all distances). Kid's marathon participants will receive a top quality cotton shirt.
Can I raise funds for charity?
Absolutely. The Calgary Marathon Society is proud to feature the Scotiabank Group Charity Challenge. Please visit the Charity section for details on how to fundraise. The fundraising goal for 2012 is $600,000.
Race Day Questions
If I have my own chip can I use it?
No, all participants will be provided with a Chronotrack B-Tag when you pick up your race kit at the Expo. It is a single-use, disposable chip that is applied to the back of your race number.
When and what streets are closed?
Visit our closures section for a complete list of road closures.
Where should I park?
We encourage you to take the LRT to the Erlton LRT Station. Limited parking is available for a fee at Stampede Park.
Where is the start and finish area?
All race-day activities will start and finish in Stampede Park. A map of the start and finish area will be available in February, 2012.
What will the weather be like?
The average race-day temperature is a high of 21C (70F) and a low of 7C (45F). Calgary's elevation is 1,040 metres (3,500 feet). Local Weather Forecast
Can I walk instead of run?
Walkers are invited to participate in all events with precautions for the marathon distance. Marathon walkers are asked to start at 7 a.m. with marathon runners. Please seed yourself accordingly. The course will be open for 6 1/2 hours where all walker must be finished thereafter. After 12:30pm, some roads will have to be re-opened and walkers will be moved up to the sidewalks.
Will there be pacers?
The Pace Bunnies provided by the Running Room, will be available for the Scotiabank Marathon, Centaur Subaru Half Marathon and Jugo Juice 10K. Each pacer's goal time will be clearly indicated. At the race start, line up near your pacer, but please do not crowd them - allow room for other runners to pass.
Pace times will be:
Scotiabank Marathon 3:30, 3:45, 4:00, 4:15, 4:30
Centaur Subaru Half Marathon 2:00, 2:15, 2:30, 2:45, 3:00
Jugo Juice 10K 1:00, 1:05, 1:10, 1:20
Are there course markers?
Yes, there will be markers each kilometer along the route.
Will there be water/aid stations?
Yes, please reference each course map to see the location of aid stations.
All water stations will provide water, sponges, Gatorade, and toilets approximately every 3 km on the marathon course. Power Bar Energy Gels will be located at the 12km, 22km and 30km aid-stations on the marathon course and at the 12km aid station on the half marathon.
Will there be First Aid Stations/support?
First Aid on course will be provided by our local Volunteer Ski Patrol, for more information on what they do check out their web site at CSPS.
Please be sure to write your full name, emergency contact information and any allergies or health conditions you have on the back of your race bib.
Can I wear my headphones / iPod during the run?
The race directors prohibit the use of these devices for the runner's safety and the safety of those around them. There is no risk of disqualification for simple use, however, if a runner puts themselves or other runners at risk through an unsafe act that the Board of Directors determine was caused directly or indirectly through the use of a prohibited item, the race directors reserve the right to disqualify the runner.
Will there be on course entertainment?
Yes, we will have entertainment stationed throughout the course and at the Start/Finish area. If you are interested in being an entertainer for the Scotiabank Calgary Marathon, please email info@calgarymarathon.com for more information.
What are the best locations to watch the race from?
- Stampede Park (start/finish)
- East Village
- Bow River Pathway
- Victoria Park (1st ST SW and 11th Ave SW)
- Centre Street Bridge (Memorial Drive)
- Princess Island Pedestrian Overpass (Memorial Drive)
- 14 Street Bridge (Memorial Drive)
- 21 Street NW Pedestrian Overpass (Memorial Drive)
Each race map indicates the best spectator locations. See race maps in the Race Info section.
Post Race Questions
Will I be able to get a race portrait?
Official photographs will be taken along the course and at the finish line by strategically placed ASI photographers. To get the best pictures possible, keep your race number uncovered and in clear view at all times. Action Sports International will then email proofs of your photographs with ordering information within one week after the race. The Scotiabank Calgary Marathon is proud to have Action Sports International as the official photographer.
Who receives medals?
All finishers, in every race category will receive a medal.
Will there be post-race massage/physiotherapy?
Post race massages will be available at the finish area on a first come, first serve basis beginning at 8:30 a.m. You can purchase your massage with your registration for $15 or purchase on-site for $20.
Where do I return my Chip?
Chips are now disposable. No need to return them. Please recycle them accordingly.
Where do I meet my friends and family after the race?
There is a recommended meeting area at Stampede Park. The site area map will be available to download in February, 2012.
What is there to do after the race?
Join us for our post-race breakfast, on-site entertainment, the awards ceremony and a range of interesting vendors. Bring your friends and family members down to celebrate your achievement!
How will I get my results?
Following the event, race results will be posted on our web site. Chip timing will track your start and finish providing quick and accurate results and all runners must use this system. You will pick up your chip at package pick up. Please note, the chips are disposable and are not required to be returned.
When can I register for 2013?
Registration for 2013 will open in the summer of 2012 following the race. All 2012 participants will be notified via email and updates will be posted on our website.
