Frequently asked questions

 
Runners entering the St. Jude campus.
 
 
 
 

Registration

 

Will there be a virtual event this year?

With no way to predict the state of the pandemic in December, we’re currently considering several options, including the possibility of a modified in-person event that would adhere to CDC guidelines. It may be some time, though, before we know what’s safe, feasible and allowable by the city of Memphis in terms of size.

We will be offering a virtual experience for those of you who may not feel comfortable in large gatherings, or who live outside of Memphis and prefer not to travel in. More details about the virtual experience will be announced soon.

I registered as a general participant. Why does my confirmation say that I'm a St. Jude Hero?

While fundraising is not required for general registrants, every participant receives a personalized St. Jude Heroes fundraising page, along with tools and guidance on how to fundraise. Registration fees ensure we're able to put on a great race, but those wishing to make a donation to St. Jude are strongly encouraged to fundraise or donate directly to the event.

Fundraising is a great way to enhance your race-weekend experience, and to help us make sure that families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food — because all a family should worry about is helping their child live. In appreciation, all participants who fundraise will receive recognition items. Learn more.

Can I transfer my registration from one race distance to another?

Yes, but only if the race you want to switch to is not already sold out.

You'll be charged the difference in entry fees in effect at the time of upgrading (e.g., half marathon to marathon). If downgrading — from the marathon to half marathon, for example — a refund will not be provided.

To switch races, email marathon@stjude.org. You may only switch race distance once.

Please note: A participant who completes a race other than the one for which they are registered will not be eligible for any awards (i.e., not be listed as a finisher with an official time).

Can I change my registration information?

Yes. From your participant center, you can change your address, phone number, email address, shirt size, personalized bib name, emergency contact information, and user name and password.

If you have other changes, please email marathon@stjude.org.

How can I request a copy of my confirmation email?

You can request your confirmation email be resent by completing this form.

Can I transfer or give my race number to someone else?

We have a no-transfer policy. It's imperative that the registration data associated with your bib number belongs to you, the participant.

If we become aware that a runner has participated in one of our events with a bib that is not registered to that runner, both the runner and the person to whom the bib is registered will be prohibited from participating in subsequent St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend events for a minimum of two years.

Are refunds available?

We have a no refund, no transfer and no deferment policy. If you are unable to participate, your registration fee and any funds raised will be donated to the kids of St. Jude.

 
 
 

Races

 

Will sports drinks and gels be available on the course?

Sports drinks will be available at each hydration station. 

The marathon course has 24 hydration stations, the first located between miles two and three. Hydration stations will then be approximately every mile from mile marks three through 25 with water, strawberry-lemonade Nuun®, Vaseline®, bandages and portalets available.

GU Energy Gel in a variety of flavors will be available at hydration stations near mile marks 10.5, 15, 18.5 and 21.

Does the marathon have pace groups?

Yes. If you're targeting a certain finish time, pace teams will be available on race day. Pace team members will also be at the expo to answer your questions.

Are strollers or non-racing wheelchairs allowed on the course?

Due to safety concerns, we do not allow the following on the marathon, half marathon, 10K or 5K courses:

  • strollers
  • baby joggers
  • unapproved non-racing wheelchairs
  • dogs
  • skateboards
  • bikes, etc.

Is there a time limit for each race?

Yes. Starting when the last corral (or last participant) crosses the start line, the time limits for each race are:

  • Marathon:  6½ hours
  • Half marathon: 4 hours 20 minutes
  • 10K: 2 hours
  • 5K:  1½ hours

When and where will the finishing times be posted?

Results will be posted on our race results page within 24 hours after the event is completed.

In addition, your racing bib will contain a QR code you can scan after you finish your race for real-time, personalized results.

If you have questions regarding results/timing, please contact BestTimes Timing at results@besttimescct.com.

 
 
 

Event

 

What is Juice Plus+?

Juice Plus+, the event’s Presenting Sponsor, is a global health and wellness company headquartered in the Memphis area. In addition to financially supporting the event, the company, its employees and sales field are committed to St. Jude in a number of ways, including an ongoing relationship with Target House, a home away from home for St. Jude families.

The Juice Plus+® Company is on a mission to make healthy habits easier to achieve through the power of plant-based nutrition, a supportive community, and continuous research. Their products provide plant-based nutrition from 40 different fruits, vegetables, berries, grains, and oils, in capsule and chewable form.

To learn more about Juice Plus+, visit juiceplus.com.

How can I volunteer?

We have a number of volunteer opportunities during the St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend. Learn more at our Volunteers page.

 
 
 

Fundraising

 

What is the St. Jude Heroes program?

Participants who fundraise at least $250 for St. Jude while training for any St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend race earn the title of St. Jude Hero.

The St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend is the largest single-day fundraising event for St. Jude. Registration fees help us put on a great race, but fundraising is the best way to support the kids of St. Jude.

There are two ways to be a St. Jude Hero:

  • Sign up prior to general registration at the Platinum, Gold, Silver or Bronze fundraising level, and get exclusive benefits and race-weekend perks.
  • Register during general registration and raise at least $250. You'll earn a St. Jude singlet or tech shirt to wear race weekend, and have the chance earn other prizes based on how much you raise.

Learn more about becoming a St. Jude Hero.

If I register at one fundraising level but raise as much as another fundraising level, will I automatically be upgraded?

To ensure all St. Jude Heroes receive the benefits they register for, some of which are limited in quantity, we do not automatically upgrade fundraising levels. However, during the month of June, we do allow participants to increase their level, while availability lasts. Email marathon@stjude.org for more information.

Can I cancel my fundraising commitment?

Your registration as a Platinum, Gold, Silver or Bronze St. Jude Hero is a commitment to the kids of St. Jude. Your fundraising commitment and race registration may be canceled only under the following extenuating circumstances:

  • Medical injury, with a valid doctor’s note on office letterhead
  • Pregnancy, with a valid doctor’s note on office letterhead 
  • Military deployment, with a valid letter from your commanding officer

All documents must be emailed to marathon@stjude.org for consideration, and no refunds of fundraising or program fees will be made.

What happens if I don't meet my fundraising goal by race day (Platinum - $5,000, Gold – $3,000, Silver – $1,500, Bronze – $600)?

As a Platinum, Gold, Silver or Bronze St. Jude Hero, your race entry and benefits are tied to your fundraising level. In October, you’ll be asked to secure your commitment to fundraise for the kids of St. Jude by providing your credit card information. At that time, you can donate to yourself to reach your fundraising goal, or we’ll keep your card on file until the fundraising deadline (January 4, 2021).

If you haven’t reached your goal by race weekend, we’ll confirm at the expo that we have your credit card on file. If you choose not to provide your credit card, you will not be able to pick up your race number and packet. In the unlikely event you still haven’t met your goal by January 4, 2021, we will fulfill the remaining amount of your fundraising commitment with your credit card information.

Do all event proceeds go to St. Jude?

The St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend is a collaborative effort between St. Jude and the Memphis Runners Track Club (MRTC). St. Jude owns the event and is responsible for costs associated with it.

We do our best to keep costs at a minimum, but, as with any major event, there is an expenditure associated with all of our races. Registration fees cover the majority of event costs, and once all fees are paid for the event's production, remaining proceeds go back to St. Jude.

Registration fees, then, are not a guaranteed donation to the kids of St. Jude. We rely on the fundraising efforts of our participants, and encourage all participants and volunteers to donate or raise funds for St. Jude.

Why Fundraise

 
 

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