FAQs
1. Where is the start and finish lines?
The start/finish area is on the Melton Lake Peninsula, 697 Melton Lake Drive
2. What time does the race start?
The half marathon begins at 9am and 5k at 9:15am.
3. Where should I park?
VIP Parking can be purchased during the registration process or on site to park in the lot for $5. Free parking can be found along Melton Lake Dr. The VIP parking lot will close at 8:45am. We recommend pre-purchased VIP parking to arrive by 8:30am.
4. Where/when is packet pick up?
Packet pick up is Thursday, Nov 21st at the Oak Ridge Chamber of Commerce (1400 Oak Ridge Turnpike) from 4-7pm. Race day pick up is available from 7:15-8:45 for out of town guests at the race site (697 Melton Lake Drive).
5. Are deferrals available?
Yes! Email halfmarathon@oakridgevisitor.com for more info. All requests to defer must be made by Friday, November 10th at 10:00pm.
6. Is there race day registration?
Yes! Unless, we are sold out! We will share on our Facebook & Instagram if we are sold out.
7. Are there time limits?
3.5 hours for the half marathon, 2.5 hours for the 5k. Please review the half marathon info page for more details on time limits.
8. Are there bathrooms/aid stations on the course?
Yes, aid/hydration stations and bathrooms are located about every 2 miles. Honey Stinger gel is provided at approximately mile 4, 8 and 10.
9. Are walkers allowed?
Yes!
10. Are strollers allowed?
Strollers are allowed for the 5k, but not the half.
11. Can someone pick up my packet for me?
Yes - please provide a copy (mobile or paper) of photo ID.
12. Where can I find race results and pictures?
Result and pictures will be posted within a week after the race - follow us on social media for updates!
13. I'm running virtually, what do I do? Can I switch my registration to virtual?
Virtual participants may complete their run between Nov 16-30. Results may be uploaded by visiting secretcityhalfmarathon.com, click "results" and "submit virtual results." Virtual participants will receive their swag after November 30th. Virtual participants will not pick up their race swag at PPU. Requests to switch to a virtual race must be made by November 10th at 10:00pm. Email halfmarathon@oakridgevisitor.com to request.
14. How are age groups awards distributed?
Age group awards will be distributed on site on race day. There are no age awards for virtual participants.
15. Are spectators allowed?
Spectators are allowed around the course, start/finish area, but not on the course.
16. Are dogs allowed? Furry friends are not allowed for either race unless for medical reasons. Furry friends can be spectators, though!
17. Can I exchange my shirt size? Any leftover sizes will be available to switch at either packet pick up times.
18. I tried to sign up, but the website says full. Is there anything I can do? Unfortunately, if the website says there are no more spots, we are sold out! For 2024, the 5k is officially sold out as of November 14th. The half marathon is officially sold out as of November 17th.
19. Is there a waitlist in case someone defers? If you contact us prior to race week (11/17), we can put you on a waitlist, but due to the nature of race preparations and being a small staff, we cannot guarantee we will be able to contact you if someone defers. Any waitlist questions from 11/17 on cannot be added to a waitlist. The best thing to do is check our website periodically to see if a spot opens up.
