Frequently Asked Questions
As answered by the Race Director
Go ahead, ask her another!
Why can't we finish in the Notre Dame Stadium this year (2012)?
Good question. The stadium is an 80+ year-old building that needs maintenance. Every year the university uses the off season to perform that maintenance — and every year they graciously work around the Sunburst Races. This year the construction is extensive and we are unable to work around it. Read More....
Can I walk the marathon?
Ah, my favorite question. This is a running race, with volunteers, police, water stops and medical staff all available to help runners. If you walk and you finish after 12:15 p.m. YOU ARE ON YOUR OWN. Because we cannot tie up traffic and people forever, water stops close and streets re-open according to a 14-minute mile. The finish line is taken down after 12:15 p.m., volunteers disappear and the race director collapses. If you are not sure that you can finish on time, I recommend that you do the half marathon. With a 7:15 a.m. start-time, you have 5 hours to walk 13.1 miles. It's an admirable, worthy and challenging distance you can be proud of.
Well, can I start early then?
No.
What time zone are you on?
Eastern Time Zone.
Can you serve beer at the finish?
It may be the home of the Irish, but this isn’t Ireland. University policy prohibits alcohol at the finish line.
Can I run with my baby jogger?
So you can run over other participants? No wheels of any kind are permitted in any Saturday Run or Walk events. That includes bikes, blades, strollers, joggers, etc. We do have Half Marathon Wheelchair Division. Start time is 5:50 a.m. for this event.
Do you have a wheelchair event?
Yes, we do have a separate wheelchair half marathon event. Start time is 5:50 a.m.
Can I run with my dog?
No. Your dog could use a break from you anyway. Way too hazardous for all kinds of reasons.
What is the minimum age to participate?
You must be at least 6 years old. And please use good judgment. Find your pace marker and stay put (in the back). Do not try to get to the head of the start line unless you run a 5-minute mile.
If I want to run with my child do I have to pay?
Can't believe people ask this one, but they still do, every year. Yes. Everyone in the race must be registered.
My cousin's getting married – can I get a refund since I already registered?
Unfortunately we cannot offer refunds.
Can I switch events?
Yes, all event changes must be made at Packet Pickup. We cannot make changes on race day.
Can I register on race day?
No. We do not offer race day registration. You can register online until midnight EDT, Tuesday, May 30. Your last time to register is at Packet Pickup on Friday before race day. Late fees apply.
So when is packet pickup?
Friday, June 1 from noon – 8 p.m. at the College Football Hall of Fame and again starting at 4:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 2. No early pick-ups - Please don't ask. We don't like seeing the disappointment/anger in your face when we say, "No."
I can't find my confirmation. Can I get a copy?
Sure. Click on this link to get a copy.
Do you have an Expo?
That’s impossible since they became the Nationals back in 2005. Oh, you meant Expo. Do we ever! Come check out all kinds of cool stuff during Packet Pickup, noon – 8 p.m. Get yourself some new stuff! Learn more about Sunburst events.
Can my friend pick up my packet?
Yes. And if your "friend" loses it, you'll need to re-register. You'll also need a new friend.
Do I get a t-shirt?
Don't you have enough already? But yes, of course! You'll like this year's too.
Do I get a finisher medal?
If you finish the marathon or half, yes, you do get a finisher medal.
How about a finisher certificate?
You did it!!! And now you can prove it too by printing your own finisher certificate. Visit this site after the race for details. This service is provided for all timed events.
Do you have finisher photos?
Yes, smile as you cross that finish line! We've got the folks from Brightroom.com on board again this year. Be sure to wear your bib number in front so we can identify you. You'll be contacted by email after the race with ordering information.
Do I get a poster?
If you run the marathon or half marathon, yes. All others can buy one at Packet Pickup on Friday or Saturday morning at the Hall of Fame or at the finish. Quantities limited; first come, first serve.
Do I get food at the finish?
We got plenty of food! Meijer does a fabulous job – the best you'll find at any race.
What kind of fluid replacement will you have?
Gatorade. If you don't like it, bring your own.
Is there a bus back from the finish to the start?
You'll be too tired to walk it, so catch the free shuttle outside Gate 8 of the Joyce Center back to the Hall of Fame start.
Where can I see results?
As with any fitness program, you'll see results … Just kidding! You mean your race results? At a location to be determined near the finish line and online by 3 p.m. EDT the day of the race. In an effort to save trees, Sunburst will only publish full results online.
I clicked the wrong t-shirt size? Can you fix that?
Yes, just let us know your name, confirmation number and the size you intended. Email changes to sunburst@memorialsb.org
Can I use an iPod or similar headset?
Sure, but please be careful. Make sure that you can hear all course and safety instructions from volunteers and police officers.
What if none of these questions are my question?
If you have any questions, use our Contact Us page and we'll answer you. Promise.
I'm injured/scared/can't run, can I transfer my registration to someone else?
No, for all sorts of safety and legal reasons. This is a standard marathon running industry policy.
What can I do to make the race director happy?
So glad you asked! Pray for nice weather. Thank our sponsors from the bottom of your heart. Thank our great volunteers too. And remember, no whining. It's going to be a great race.
