A:Yes, the full marathon is certified! Certification number MI 10054 SH.
Q: What is the course like?
A: With the exception of the International Bridge portion of the race, The Chase is a flat, out and back course running along the shores of the St. Mary’s River. It begins on the campus of Lake Superior State University, continues across the International Bridge, circles downtown along the Soo Locks and continues to follow the river front through residential areas to approximately 8 mile road. The finish line is in downtown Sault Ste. Marie at the corner of Ashmun and Portage Streets. Racers will enjoy a fabulous finish. The only ‘rise’ on the course falls at the beginning of the race on the International Bridge. Elevation chart for the bridge are available from the Chamber of Commerce. The Bridge portion of the run is approximately 4.2 miles with two slight inclines – we cross the bridge, turn around prior to Canadian Customs and run back. The Half Marathon, 10k and 5k course starts and ends in the same location as the full. The 5k race will follow a different route than the other races and the 5k does not run across the International Bridge.
Q: What time does the finish line close? A. The finish line will close at 1:30PM. Anyone finishing after this time (61/2 hours for the Marathon) may not receive an official finish time.
Q: What do you have at your aid stations? A: Water Stations are located every 1.5 miles to 2 miles with Water and Gatorade. There will be a single water station at the North end of the International Bridge. Two medical aid stations will be along the course as well as at the finish line rest and recovery area. We are planning to have GU and food available at some aid stations. More information will be available when we get closer to race day.
Q: Do you have pace groups at the The Chase? A: No.
Q: Do you use the chip? A: Yes, both a starting and finishers mat.
Q: So the course isn't closed to traffic? A: No, but due to the early start time traffic is very light for most of the race. The first 4 ½ miles are on the International Bridge, the North bound lane will be closed to traffic, traffic will be routed on the south bound lane. Once you leave the bridge, you’ll be running through our tourist district, which will be relatively mild at this time of year. A portion of the downtown area will be closed to traffic and set up for our Octoberfest celebration. Once you leave downtown, traffic is sparse and you’ll start to come into residential areas. Traffic will be fairly slow the further out of town you go. Watch out for your fellow runner as those ahead of you head back to the finish after the turnaround. We’ll have police, policy auxiliary and traffic volunteers at key traffic locations.
Q: How many runners are in the race? A: As this is our inaugural race, we are unsure what to expect for attendance. We’ve limited the race to 1,000 runners, but are not really expecting that turnout with a first race. Although, we do believe that with the International Bridge will be attractive to many runners.
Q: Do you allow walkers in The Chase? A: We do not have a separate category for walkers in any of The Chase races. All times are listed by age group only in the results. The finish line closes at 1:30 pm, anyone finishing after then may not receive an official time or finisher medal.
Q: Are there spectators out on the course? A: Sault Ste. Marie is a small town so don’t expect huge crowds of spectators. However, we love our community and support each other as much as we can, so race volunteers will work extra hard to invite and direct spectators to good locations. We are also planning several spirit stations along the way.
Q: Can my friends and family meet me out on the course or ride along on a bike? A: Friends and family CANNOT ride along with you. We want to limit all possible traffic on the course and ask you to provide your friends and family with the spectator maps available at registration. Our course marshals are given the authority to disqualify you if they determine you are associated with a bike or car on the course. They have full and final authority in these matters. We take your safety very seriously.
Q: Are there hotels close to the start/finish? Do any provide discounts? A: Sault Ste. Marie is a major tourist destination in Northern Michigan and offers many hotels and motels in all price ranges, many within a short distance to the start/finish. Additional information about hotel sponsors offering discounts to race participants are posted on our website. Be sure to mention that you are in town for The Chase.
Q: I am from out of the area how do I get to Sault Ste. Marie? A: The Sault is located at the northern most point off of I-75. Check out our “getting here” page on www.saultstemarie.org for travel directions.
Q: I registered on-line but need to make a change. What do I do? A: Just e-mail us at info@saultstemarie.org and we’ll make the appropriate changes.
Q: How do I know I am registered? A: Your cancelled check or credit card statement is your initial source of confirmation. We will also send confirmation notices over to your e-mail if you register on-line or include a valid email address on your mailed entry.
Q: I’ve got additional questions? A: Great! Just e-mail us at info@saultstemarie.org or you can call the Sault Area Chamber of Commerce at 906-632-3301.
