Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the events at the 24 Hour Around the Lake?
   There are four different events: a marathon (26.2 miles); a 24-hour ultra-marathon; a 12-hour ultra-marathon and a 24-hour team relay.
2. Who runs the races?
   The races attract a really wide range of athletes at from world-class ultra runners to first-time marathon runners.
3. Why would I choose to run the 24 Hour Around the Lake?
   Runners come for many reasons: - The evening start is appealing to many marathon runners, in part for the novelty but also to avoid daytime sun/heat.
   - The course is flat and fast.
   - Because of the loop course, there are water stations every 1.6 miles and a full aid station every 3.2 miles.
   - The loop course is perfect for friends, family or support teams.
   - You can park and walk to the start - no transfer buses!
   - Many runners enjoy the low-key, friendly atmosphere.
4. What happens to my entry fee?
   This is a charity race to raise money for two children's groups: The Rabb Clinic at Children's Hospital Boston and the Wakefield Educational Foundation. 51% of the entry fees go to these charities, the rest covers race expenses. The race directors and volunteers do not receive any payment.
5. Is the marathon a "Boston Qualifier"?
   Yes, the course is USATF certified and can be used as a Boston Marathon qualifying race, which is even more important due to the BM selling out in November for the 2010 race.
6. How long are the 12-hour and 24-hour races?
   The goal is to run as many laps as possible in the allotted time. From past year's results, you can see the range of distances typically covered. Runners take breaks on their own schedule to eat, nap, etc.
7. Is there a time limit for the marathon?
   Marathon runners may take up to 24 hours to run the marathon
8. What is provided at the aid station?
   We provide water and sports drink at the water stations.
   At the aid station located at the finish line we provide energy gel as well as a variety of drinks (coke, diet coke, ginger ale, juices), cookies (fig newtons, chocolate chip), candy, potatoes, bananas, water melon, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, pretzels, potato chips.
9. What is the running surface?
   The race is mostly run on paved surfaces (sidewalks, paths, and office park access road). The surface is mostly asphalt with some concrete and a 35-yard section of grass/dirt.
10. Are there any hills?
    Since the course circles Lake Quannapowitt, it is essentially flat.
11. Is the course lit?
    Most of the course is lit by street lights, however there are a couple of darker areas. Due to some uneven sidewalks, we highly recommend that all runners bring headlamps or a flashlight.
12. What is the "Take the Lake Challenge" and are there special awards for 100+ mile finishers?
    The "Take the Lake Challenge" is an invitation to those outstanding runners who try to complete 100 miles in 24 hours. Each runner who completes 100+ miles will receive a unique hand-crafted tile by local artist, Julie Peck.
13. Can I use headphones during the race?
    While 24 Hour race will not ban the use of portable listening devices, the use of such items is discouraged - for your safety and the safety of others. Runner safety has always been, and will continue to be, the priority for all of our events. Please be mindful of the other participants and race personnel to ensure a safe and enjoyable race for everyone. You MUST be aware of your surroundings at all times and this includes being able to hear any verbal warnings/instructions from police/course officials, or the sound of any vehicles and other participants on the course.
14. What is Race Day Cancellation, Race Alteration Policy & Weather Policy?
    It is the primary goal of the 24 Hour Around the Lake Races to provide and ensure a safe event for participants, volunteers and community people alike. We will be diligent in not exposing the participants, the volunteers or the community at large to any undue risk in the production and/or execution of the event. We understand the commitment the participants have made in entering the race, however, the decisions regarding race cancellations, temporary suspension, and/or alterations will be based on the greater safety of the participants, volunteers, and event staff.
     
    When weather conditions or other physical conditions present a danger to the participants as a whole, the 24 Hour Around the Lake Races officials maintain the right to cancel the race. Less threatening conditions could cause alteration of the race, and/or the race course or length of the race to further ensure participant, volunteer and community safety. The race may be temporarily suspended until race officials consider conditions suitable to continue the race. In the event of a temporary suspension, runners on the course may continue until the conclusion of the lap but no runner can start a new lap. Failure to follow directions of race officials may result in disqualification from the event. The race directors may at their discretion extend the finishing time of the ultra races in the event of a temporary suspension. The conditions fall under the "Act of God" - and will not result in refunding of any race entry fee or future race credits. The staging of an event of this magnitude places large financial burden on the 24 Hour Around the Lake Races organization prior to the event date. Thus, in the event of a forced race cancellation or alteration, it is probable that the financial impact on race would not be any different than if the race was held without compromise.
     
    24 Hour Around the Lake Races officials, along with city officials will make decisions regarding the cancellation or alteration of the race. Prior to the race, the 24 Hour Around the Lake Races officials will apprise the participants of the weather conditions. 24 Hour Around the Lake Races officials will describe any changes that may be decided as a result of weather or other unsafe conditions.