FAQs
Logistics
While we love dogs, they cannot accompany runners on the course.
Packet pick up/registration is on race morning beginning at 6:15 AM in the pavilion at Memorial Park, where you will park and start and finish your race. You won't need much time to gather your bib and swag prior to your race starting time.
The best parking is located right in Memorial Park, adjacent to the start/finish and registration. Parking is free. There is also parking on the street near the park.
Because you will park very near start/finish, you can use your car for a secure gear drop.
Yes, there are three water stops on the 6-mile loop about 2 miles apart. Each has water and gatorade in cups. You can also refill your own bottles at the aid stations.
Yes. Log into your RunSignUp account and click on "My Races" and "Mill Towns Race Series" to update your registration. If you have difficulty, please email us.
Like most other races, we do not offer refunds. We will allow you to defer your entry for one year. You also have the option of purchasing insurance during registration to recuperate your entry fee should you be unable to run.
Yes. Log into your RunSignUp account and choose Mill Towns Race Series from your races (under my account). You can choose to gift your registration to someone else. Under this scenario, you would not receive a refund. Alternatively, you can transfer your registration to someone else. Once they register and pay, a refund will be issued to you. Please note the deadline for completing a registration transfer is September 30.
Yes, we do allow strollers. We ask anyone pushing a stroller start their race at the back of the pack.
The Course
Yes, all runners must complete their races in 6 hours and 30 minutes from the start of the marathon (by 2 p.m.). After 2 p.m., runners' results will not have an official time.
The half marathon/marathon loop starts at 922 ft with the max elevation being 950 ft and elevation gain of just 107 ft. The 10K max elevation is 940 ft and elevation gain of 102 ft.
We do not have pacers but you're welcome to have a friend pace you for a loop or two. Pacers run at their own risk and should carry their own fuel/hydration.
The 10K is one loop of a slightly shorter route than the half marathon and marathon. The half marathoners complete the 6.55 mile loop twice and the marathoners four times.
There are restrooms at Memorial Park as well as porta-potties at mile 1, at the dog park before mile 3, in Sechler Park between miles 4 and 5, and in Mill Park, just before your cross the river to return to Memorial Park.
There are water stops about every two miles - three total on the looping course.
Both routes cross train tracks twice. Some years, we get lucky and the trains aren't running. Other years, runners are held up. We have course marshals stationed at each crossing to record bib numbers and the amount of time each runner is delayed and our timer adjusts finishing times accordingly.
The use of personal music devices is strongly discouraged at this race. To enjoy all that our race has to offer and for the safety of all participants, Your Pace or Mine Running Club encourages a headphone-free environment during the running of the Mill Towns Race Series.
We believe your race experience and those around you will be greatly enhanced by leaving the headphones at home or in the car. Running headphone-free allows opportunities to develop camaraderie with your fellow runners and to enjoy everything the race has to offer. Plus, volunteers and spectators will be on course cheering you on and providing directions to help get you to the finish line.
Runner safety has always been, and will continue to be, a top priority for our event. Headphones may impede your ability to hear course marshals, race officials and emergency personnel.
Runner Amenities
Yes, all finishers receive a 3" high quality Mill Towns Race Series medal.
Yes! We have photographers on the course. Photos are uploaded to our website and can be downloaded for free. While we try to get a photo of every participant, this is very challenging. In 2026, we plan to hire an additional photographer to help us achieve this goal.
Yes, we will have a variety of baked goods donated by Martha's Eats & Sweets and the Brick Oven Bakery. Additionally, we provide fresh fruit, coffee, chips/snacks and bottled water for runners.
Spectator Experience
Memorial Park is the best place for your fans, especially if you're running the half marathon or marathon. They don't have to move to see you at the start, each pass through the park and at the finish. They're welcome to bring lawn chairs, a canopy, yard games and encouraging signs! There's a playground for kids too!
If they want to chase you on the course, they could go to the dog park near Culver's in Northfield (before mile 3) or to Sechler Park (about mile 4).
We try to provide a fun experience for runners and fans alike. Your fans can hang out by the fire, enjoy some free Malt o Meal cereal, use the playground, and cheer for all the runners coming through the park.
Yes, fans are welcome to bring a canopy and lawn chairs, some beverages and fun signs to motivate runners. Dogs are not allowed on the race course. Fans who bring well-behaved dogs are asked to keep them on a fixed-length leash at all times and remember some people are not comfortable around dogs. Dog owners are liable for any damage, harm or injury caused by their pet.