How do I register for the races?
You can register online or by paper form. The race is capped at 1000 runners total for the 5K and half-marathon combined. Registration will end when we reach this number. If we haven't reached our 1000 runner limit, you will be able to register for the race on Friday September 7th at a time and location that will be announced. There will be limited registration on race morning from 7-8am if we have not reached our 1000 runner limit. Look for a final notice on our website on Thursday, September 6th, about race day registration.

How can I register for the Jay Hathaway Memorial Team Challenge presented by Paraco Gas?
This is how the Team Challenge works: Teams of four runners and/or walkers will compete for the Hathaway Team Challenge Trophy in either the Half Marathon or in the 5 K races. All four participants’ finishing positions in their race will be added together, with the lowest cumulative total being declared the Team champion. Each runner/walker will go the full distance in their event (i.e., not a relay event.) One champion team will be crowned in each event.  For more information and to register, click here.

When does online registration close?
Online registration closes September 4th at midnight EST or when we reach 1000 registrations - whichever comes first.

Can I register on race day?
Registration is capped this year at 1000 participants. If we have space, registration on race day will take place from 7-8:30am on Saturday, September 8th. Check our website frequently for the latest update in registration numbers. We'll make our final decision on race-day registration Thursday, September 6th. Why not play it safe and register online?

Are walkers allowed in the half-marathon?
Walkers (but not slow runners or folks intending to jog then walk) are welcome for the half marathon, but we have a noon"ish" time limit on water stops and the timing company. We have determined that you would need to walk at least 4mph to reach the finish line in time. After noon we will have limited bike marshal escorts. There are no separate registration or awards categories for walkers, but all finishers will also receive a race medal. Walkers in the half marathon will start at 8 a.m. Walkers in the 5K will start with everyone else at 9 a.m.

Does every participant receive a t-shirt?
We're offering a new item for 2012: every participant will receive a performance ball cap. Last year's participants said they would like a change from the standard cotton shirt. However, we are offering a long-sleeved performance shirt as an option at additional cost for those who are interested. The shirt can be ordered on Active's registration site up until August 1.

Is there an age limit for the races?
There is no age requirement for either the 5K or the half-marathon. If you are prepared to go the distance, and if you're under age 18 you have your parent's permission, you are allowed to participate.

How many participants do you expect?
Registration will be closed at 1000 total for both races combined.

What does the entry fee include?
The entry fee includes participation costs. Additionally, participants will receive a performance ball cap and a unique and highly coveted race medal. Refreshments will be available for all participants after the races.

Will there be on-course photographers?
Capstone Photography at www.capstonephoto.com will once again take pictures of racers on the course as well as at the finish line for purchase after the race. Get ready to smile!

When can I pick up my race number, timing chip, etc?
We'll post information well before the race.

Where can I park?
There is plenty of parking at the Dana Thompson Recreation Center where the races start and finish. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time on race morning as traffic increases after 7:30am. The entrance road into the Dana Thompson Recreation Park will close by 8:30am for the runner's safety. Arrive early and enjoy the fun atmosphere at the park! Latecomers will be directed to nearby alternate parking sites.

What can my family do while I'm running the half-marathon?
The Dana Thompson Recreation Park has a playground, ball fields, an enclosed dog park, and a 1-mile walking path. All facilities will be open on race day.

Do the Maple Leaf races benefit a charity?
Yes! Over years the Manchester Lions have contributed tens of thousands of dollars to Manchester area charities, which include aid for medical expenses, educational projects for adults and children, youth recreation, and student scholarships. Visit our charity page to see other nonprofit groups participating in and benefiting from the Maple Leaf.

Is there a way I can communicate with other participants?
Join us on our Facebook page, Maple Leaf Half Marathon and 5K run and fun walk in the sports & recreations outdoor sports group section.

Where are the best places for spectators to watch the runners?
For the 5K, the best spot is at the corner of Route 7A and Memorial Avenue in downtown Manchester, near the Manchester Elementary and Middle School.

For the half-marathon, there are 3 great spots.

At the 1 mile mark, at the intersection of Route 7A and Bonnet Street near the Northshire Bookstore, where runners turn right onto 7A.
At the 2.5 mile mark, at the Mark Skinner Library, the intersection of Route 7A and Manchester West Road, just south of the Equinox Resort.
At the 11 mile mark, the Manchester Town Hall, on Route 7A.

Are there port-a-potties on the course?
We have plenty of restrooms and port-a-potties at the start and finish of the races. We'll also have one port-a-pottie on the half-marathon course, at approximately the half-way mark.

What will the weather be like on race day?
This is Vermont - the weather changes faster than you can finish a 5K. Typical early September weather at the start will be sunny, cloudy, overcast, or rainy - but we promise there won't be any snow. Expect a temperature range from the mid-40's to the high 70's, with the average in the mid-50's. Bring sunscreen and a rain hat - you never know.

Are headphones/iPods allowed during the races?
The use of personal music devices is strongly discouraged at the Maple Leaf Half Marathon and 5K. To enjoy all that our race has to offer and for the safety of all participants, we encourage a headphone-free environment during the entire race. The majority of the roads are open to traffic during the races, and your safety is our primary concern.

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.

Are wheelchairs or hand cycles allowed?
Definitely! Please remember the rolling course travels over some dirt and loose gravel roads, and plan accordingly.

Are baby strollers allowed?
No. Our race insurance doesn't allow baby strollers. There race starts and finishes at the Dana Thompson Recreation Center, which has playgrounds and a pool to keep the family busy.

Can my pet accompany me if it's on a leash?
No! Our insurance strictly forbids it. Sorry, but there can be no exceptions.

Where are the water stops, and is there sports drink available?
Water stops are staffed by enthusiastic volunteers at 8 stops on the half-marathon course, and at 1 stop on the 5K course. Gatorade sports drink will be available at half of the water stops. Click for course maps identifying water/Gatorade stops during the half marathon and 5k.

When will the awards ceremony take place?
Awards for the 5K will start at approximately 10am, and awards for the half-marathon will begin at approximately 11:30am.

What if I need medical attention?
Southwestern Vermont Medical Center and the Manchester Rescue Squad provide onsite trained emergency medical staff.

Are any roads closed on race day?
Route 30 from the Dana Thompson Recreation Center to the intersection of Route 7A (the first mile of the half-marathon) will be closed from 9-9:45am. All other roads are open to traffic, and we encourage both runners and drivers to exercise extreme caution on race day.

How hilly is the course?
This is Vermont, land of the Green Mountains. We don't call anyone not from Vermont a flatlander for nothing. That said, Manchester is in a valley, but you have to expect a few hills.

Where can I spend the night before or after the race?
Click on our lodging page to find the list of local inns and restaurants that are offering special prices for Maple Leaf participants.

What is there to do in the area over the weekend?
Click on the Chamber of Commerce logo on our website home page for local information. The Chamber also has several coupons for local businesses on their website.