FAQ

How much does the race cost?

Registration Fees & Deadlines:

By February 29th: $55.00 for YMCA members and $65.00 for non-members.

March 1st to April 5th: $70.00 for YMCA members and $80.00 for non-members.

April 6th to April 19th: $80.00 for YMCA members and $90.00 for non-members.
NO shirt guaranteed if you register after April 19th.

Register Online

What do I get for my registration fee?

T-shirt (if registered by April 19th)

Unique finisher medal

Pre-race & post-race drinks, food & entertainment

SWAG bag
On-course support
Free parking near the start/finish area
Water and/or sport drink at aid stations

What is the course like?

This "out and back" course is a beautiful mix of paved paths and dirt trails all along Missouri river. The course is primarily flat, with a few gradual inclines and declines.

What is the course elevation?

Between 1,408 feet - 1,442 feet

What time does the run start?

Saturday, May 4th, 2023 at 8:00 a.m.

Is the course certified?

Is the race timed?

There will be a clock and timing system. We may have chip timing this year.

What will the weather be like in Pierre in April?

The one consistent thing about the weather in South Dakota is that it's unpredictable! Be prepared for sun, rain, wind or snow (just kidding, or not!) and perhaps all of the above! Early May is a mild spring month in Pierre, South Dakota, with temperature in the range of an average low of 38.5°F (3.6°C) and an average high of 56.1°F (13.4°C). The average high-temperature in May is a moderate 56.1°F (13.4°C). and the average low-temperature is 38.5°F (3.6°C). In May the average relative humidity is 63%.
Much of our course is tree lined, so you will have some shade along the run.

Are walkers allowed to participate in this half marathon?

Yes, walkers are welcome. The course will be open for four hours. If you choose to walk, please pay attention to runners on the course and yield accordingly.

How many aid stations will be on the course?

Aid stations will be approximately every 2-3 miles. With an out and back course, you have the opportunity to see your favorite volunteer not once but twice!

Are there toilets along the course?

Yes. Some built-in, some portable. The exact number is yet to be determined.

Will medical assistance be available?

Yes, we are working to have medical personnel at the start/finish. Bike marshals along the route will be able to call for emergency support.

Can I wear headphones and listen to music/streaming/podcasts?

For your safety and the safety of those around you, we strongly discourage the use of headphones during the run. This is not a closed course (open to the public during the event) and there are a couple of transitions areas where you should be alert to traffic. Also, part of the course passes through areas with wildlife so you will need to be aware of your surroundings.

Can a partner bike alongside me or can I push my child in a baby jogger while I run or walk?

For your safety, as well as the safety of your children and others, absolutely NO strollers, baby joggers, bikes, wagons or other similar mechanisms will be allowed on the course, except for bikes used by race marshals. Some areas of the course are not suitable for non-official bikes, strollers or baby joggers.

Can I bring my dog on the course?

We love our pets too, but no. For the safety of other participants, for your pets and for the wildlife in the area, we cannot allow pets on the course.

What should I do if I encounter wildlife?

Please don’t approach wildlife. The most common animals you are likely to encounter are birds, squirrels and deer, which are likely to run away. In the unlikely event that you encounter a wildlife, please give them wide berth and notify someone at the next aid station. If you need assistance, signal a race marshal or aid station.

Will there be a course sweep?

We will have a S.A.G. (support and gear) vehicle to bring up the rear.

Is there parking at the start area?

Street parking and some parking lot parking will be available near the start area. Please do not park on grass or in private and/or residential parking spaces.

What is available at the finish line for Finishers?

Finisher medals will be waiting for racers, along with food and drinks. And of course, plenty of high-fives.

Where should my friends and family and fans view the race?

Anywhere along the course, as long as they do not impede racers' progress. We love signs, cheering and of course cowbells!

Can I register for the event on the day of the run?

No race-day registrations. Early Bird discount registration closes on February 29th. All registration will close April 29th, 2024. T-shirt guarantee deadline is April 19th.

Can someone under age 14 participate in the half marathon?

Children 14 and under may participate in the half marathon with the signature of their parent or guardian and ONLY if they are accompanied on the course AT ALL TIMES by a parent or guardian. All participants 18 and under must have the signature of their parent or guardian.

I registered but can no longer participate. Can I have a refund?

Sorry, while we are sympathetic, there will be no refunds for any reason. We need to purchase supplies for planned participants well in advance of the race. You have the option of transferring your registration to someone else until April 29th. Please call to transfer your registration. These deadlines are firm!

Where/when do I pick up my race packet?

Friday, May 3rd, 2024

10:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. Packet pick-up at the Oahe Family YMCA, 900 E. Church Street, Pierre, SD

(all times are CST)

Can I pick up my race packet the day of the race?

You must pick up your race packet, which includes race bib, on Friday at the YMCA.

There will be NO packet pick-up on race day.

Can I have a friend pick up my race packet for me?

Yes, so long as a waiver has been signed. NOTE: If you registered electronically, your waiver has been signed. You are responsible for all safety and run information contained within your packet. Please contact us prior to the race so we can plan for your friend.

Who does the run benefit?

This event helps support our Annual Y Partners Campaign. The Y is the leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose and each other. Working locally, we focus on empowering young people, improving health and well-being and inspiring action in and across communities. Funds generated through this event help support our cause and ensure that nobody is turned away from Y programs or services.

I'd like to volunteer to help out. Who should I contact?

Fantastic! We love our volunteers! Please contact us at 605-224-1683