Q: What is the beach section like?
A: Only the marathon runners and the first stage relay runners will get to experience the amazing run on Chesterman Beach. Just past the 4km mark, runners will run 1.5km on the hard packed sand. Everyone loved the beach section last year! For a detailed account of what you can expect from the beach run, please read Rumon Carter's report.

Q: How do relay team members arrive at their exchange points?
A: Relay team members will be transported to their exchange points by bus, but are responsible for ensuring they are each point in time for the exchange (this is based on the individual pace of each runner). The buses will run every 20-25 minutes from the start/finish line. It is a 45-minute trip between Ucluelet and Tofino, plus possible traffic delays and bus stops, SO LEAVE EARLY!

Q: Where do our support people stay?
Your support people are there to help you but we request that they do not situate themselves in the transition areas. This area will be congested with runners tagging off and traffic control persons directing traffic and ensuring the safety of participants.

Q: Are pets or strollers allowed on the course?
A: No they are not allowed,

Q: Are we allowed to listen to our MP3 players while running?
A: They are not recommended or if necessary should be kept at a low level.

Q: What type of weather should I expect on the West Coast of Vancouver Island in June?
A: It is impossible to accurately predict but the weather can change fairly quickly. Be sure to bring clothes for wet weather as well as typical summer heat.

Q: Is there water on the course?
A: Yes, there will be at least 12 water stations for the marathon course and six for the half marathon. However, we also recommended you carry water with you. The conditions can be quite hot and humid, increasing your risk of dehydration. There are a variety of running belts, backpacks etc. on the market to carry your water supply. It is also recommended that you use this system on your training runs to get used to the weight and to make sure your water supply is ideal for the distance.

Q: What if I am coming over from the mainland on the ferry?
A: Be sure to do your research and plan ahead. The commute from the Nanaimo ferry terminal is approximately 3 hours, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time. Plus, it is highly recommended you make a reservation for the ferry you are interested in catching. Check out our transportation and accomodation page for more details.

Q: What type of footwear should I wear?
A: First of all, be sure that your shoes are broken in to avoid running with new blisters. As far as what type of shoe to wear, that is personal preference to a point, however there are excellent running shoes on the market that offer fantastic tread and support. Check out our retail page and visit Frontrunners in Nanaimo for excellent advice and let them set you up for success!