FAQ

Can I just buy the beer bundle or just the hat?

You can pre-purchase the beer bundle only, no hat here.
You can pre-purchase the beer bundle with commemorative 130th anniversary hat here.
If you wish to only purchase the hat with no beer, then please visit the SURGE Activewear booth at Packet Pickup.

Where do I pick up my MERIT Beer Bundle?

MERIT Brewing will be at Packet Pickup. Any pre-purchased bundles can be picked up at their booth.

What are the age limits for each race?

For the In-Person 30k and/or The Hammer Races — You must be at least 15 years of age on March 24, 2024 to participate.

For the In-Person 10K and 15K – You must be at least 12 years of age on March 24, 2024 to participate. For these race categories, we highly recommend an adult participate with registrants under 16 years of age.

There is no age restriction on the 5K. We highly recommend that children under the age of 12, participating in the 5K event, run with an adult.

What is the elevation for the 30K course?

Please click here for the 30K elevation chart.

Do Hammer Hybrid participants receive their jacket at the Expo?

When you pick up your race kit, you will receive your Hammer jacket and Hammer bib. When you finish the race, enter the Hammer medal line to receive your Hammer medal.

Can I change my corral?

Yes, but please place yourself in the appropriate corral to ensure the balanced flow of the race is maintained. Please see the Help Desk at the Expo to change your corral.

I bought the ATB+ Defer to 2025 option. Am I automatically deferred?

You are not automatically deferred to 2025. If you purchased the ATB+ Defer to 2025 option and would like to defer, you must email us before March 20, 2024 indicating you would like to redeem/exercise your option to defer. We can remove you from this year’s race and confirm your deferral.

Summary of ATB+ Defer Option (DO) Package

  • Option to defer to 2025 for any reason
  • If you are unable to participate for whatever reason in the 2024 Bay Race, you have the option to defer your registration to 2025 with this ATB+ DO package.
  • To redeem this option, please email info@bayrace.com to inform us that you will exercise your option to defer by March 20, 2024 so we can record your deferral and remove you from the 2024 race. Then a promo code will be sent to you to register for 2025 once 2025 online registration opens. Please note you are not automatically registered for 2025. You will need to use the promo code we send to register for 2025. The promo code offsets the 2025 entry fee. If you do not email us to inform us you are exercising your deferral option, you are not automatically deferred to 2025 and you are not automatically registered for 2025.
  • Notice by email to defer must be sent to info@bayrace.com.
  • Deferred registrants do not receive 2024 race kit/shirt. Deferred registrants will receive a promo code to register for the 2025 race.
  • ATB+ DO Package available for purchase until March 20, 2024.
  • No refunds on the ATB+ DO package
  • The ATB+ DO Package can only be used to defer to the next race year. I.e. If you want to further defer to 2026, you will need a 2025 ATB+ Defer Option Package.
  • Online fees and taxes applicable to ATB+ packages.

Can I still transfer? If so, how?

For the health and safety of all participants, it is important to have accurate information of actual participants and especially during emergency situations.  Only official transfers during the transfer period will be allowed.  A person who runs under someone else’s bib will be disqualified and may face suspension from future Bay Races.

You can transfer to someone else through your Race Roster dashboard until March 10, 2024. Click on transfer link near the middle top of your profile page. Click transfer to another person to initiate a transfer. The recipient of the transfer will receive an email and steps to complete the transfer including paying the transfer fee ($15 + tax and online fees).

Please note the Around The Bay Road Race is not responsible for private transactions on transfers and will not be involved in transfer disputes.

To transfer to another race category (sub-event) until March 10, 2024, click on the transfer link near the middle top of your profile page. Then click transfer to another sub-event and proceed from there.
If you upgrade, the difference will be owing but if you downgrade, there is no credit.

If you originally used a promo code to register, please email info@bayrace.com to receive a new promo code as the system will not recognize the original credit on a transfer.

If you transfer your entry to someone else, you do not receive any of the race swag. The transfer recipient will receive the race swag.

If you transfer from one race category to another race category, you will receive the race swag of the new race category. E.g. If you transfer from the Hammer Hybrid to the 15K, you will receive a long-sleeved race shirt and a 15K medal. You would not receive the Hammer Jacket or the Hammer medal.

After March 10, 2024, transfers can only be completed in person at Packet Pickup on March 22 & 23. No race day transfers or registrations.

Can family and friends watch me finish inside Tim Hortons Field?

Yes, spectators are welcome to watch in the stadium seats as participants finish the race. Section 108 is a perfect area to watch participants come through the finish line. Spectators, family and friends can come to field level entering Gate 4. You may wish to pick a certain section in the stadium to meet after the race. There is some indoor viewing space on Club Level 4.

Section 107 and Section 109 are also great for watching participants come through the finish line.

I have the ATB+ Race Day Pick Up. Where do I go to pick up my kit on race morning?

  • ATB+ Race Day Pick-up will be open from 7:30am-8:45am
  • One Packet Pick-Up per ATB+ package.
  • Baggage check items must fit in the clear plastic bag (16″ x 24″) provided. Luggage and other large items will not be accepted. Please leave valuables at home. We are not responsible for lost or stolen property.
  • ATB+ closes at 2:30pm
  • ATB+ Race Day Pickup Location: Caretaker’s Club Lounge on Ground Level of Tim Horton’s Field (64 Melrose Ave N). Enter through Gate 3 Lobby.

Is there a bag check?

Yes, $5 Cash only.
Bag Check Tickets can be purchased at Packet Pick-Up on the Friday and Saturday before Race Day.

Is there a bag check?

Bag Check Hours: 7:30am – 2:00pm

Baggage check items must fit in the clear plastic bag (16″ x 24″) provided. Luggage and other large items will not be accepted. Please leave valuables at home. We are not responsible for lost or stolen property.

Please note this Regular Bag Check is not the same as the bag check for ATB+ Race Day Pick Up. The bag check for ATB+ Race Day Pickup is in the Caretaker’s Lounge – Main Level. Enter through Gate 3 Premium Lobby.

Can I bring a stroller and/or my dog?

The following items are NOT permitted in any of the races: pets, animals, skateboards, bicycles, roller blades, strollers* and any other types of vehicles (other than official Race vehicles). These regulations are for your safety and the safety of the other participants in the race. Anyone on the course with items not permitted will be removed from the race. If you have any questions, please email info@bayrace.com.

*Strollers are only permitted starting at the back of the pack for the 5K only. This is with the understanding that participants with strollers are casual non-competitive participants. Participants with strollers who are racing competitively in the 5k will be removed from the course as they are potential safety hazards.

Pets are not permitted inside Tim Hortons Field. Service dogs are not considered pets. Please see our race rules section here.

Can my in person race be tracked with a mobile app?

Yes, download TRACX app.

Can my in person race be tracked with a mobile app?

When will bib numbers be assigned?

Bib numbers will be assigned closer to race weekend.

Do I need to show proof of vaccination?

At this time, you do not need to show proof of vaccination. Please see our registration and COVID policy recently updated in January 2023 here.

2024 Virtual Race FAQs


Virtual Race period is March 1, 2024 – March 31, 2024.

.advgbbtn-d1d814f7-6f7a-4eb3-bdb7-675797b79e9b{font-size:18px;color:#000000 !important;background-color:#ECE4C6 !important;margin:0px 0px 0px 0px !important;padding:10px 30px 10px 30px;border-width:1px !important;border-style:none;border-radius:50px !important;}.advgbbtn-d1d814f7-6f7a-4eb3-bdb7-675797b79e9b:hover{box-shadow:1px 1px 12px 0px #ccc;opacity:1;transition:all 0.2s ease;}.advgbbtn-d1d814f7-6f7a-4eb3-bdb7-675797b79e9b > i {display: none !important;}

Where do I get my chip?

Your chip is on the back of the race bib and can be picked up at Packet Pick Up — with your race shirt.

Where is my timing chip?

The timing chip is now on the back of the bib. The bib must be worn on the front of the participant with the bib facing forward on the outside of all clothing. Holding the bib in your hand, covered under your clothes, or elsewhere on your body may result in missed timing detections.

Are there finish line photos?

Marathon Photos

Marathon Photos is the official photographer for the Bay Race. Smile when you see our photographers in the bright yellow vests and make sure your bib number is visible. View and order your photos here.

When, where and what are the awards?

Finisher medals will be distributed to each participant upon completion of their in-person event. This will take place at Tim Hortons Field after you finish the race. Gold and Silver medal recognition will be sent by mail post-race. Click here for Gold and Silver 30K times.

Age Group Award Certificates will be distributed to the top three individuals in their age and gender category. The 30K categories are Female/Male runners 15yrs and over — 5 year increments up to 75+. Age Group Award Certificates will be mailed out to the Top 3 finishers in their category for the 5K race starting from 9 and under up to 75+ years old in 5 year increments.

Are there entertainment and bands on the course?

Various groups and individuals are along the course, some playing music, some in costumes to entertain as well as encourage the runners every year.

Where does my event start?

  • 5K START: 8:30AM
  • 10K/15K/30(34)K START: 9:30AM
  • Start line for all races at the corner of Cannon St E and Lottridge St.

Are the kilometres marked?

Yes, each kilometre will be marked along the route.
Are the kilometres marked?

Where are the toilets located along the route?

There are port-a-potties located approximately every 5K along the 30K course.

Where are the aid and water stations?

Please see our course map with aid stations here.
Portable toilets placed approximately every 5K.

What is the 34K course like?

Course maps and details here.

34K Course elevation chart here.

Is there parking?


Click here for parking options and pre-race warming areas.

When should I arrive?

You should arrive at least an hour before your start time to do any last minute things, i.e. warm-up, washroom stop, etc.

Please factor in the road closures and the time it will take to find parking.

Are there Pace Bunny times? What are the times?

Yes, thanks to the Running Room, we will have 30K pacers this year. Pacer times from 2:10 to 3:35.

What are the starting times and course closure times?

5K START: 8:30AM

10K/15K/30(34)K START: 9:30AM

Start line for all races at the corner of Cannon St E and Lottridge St.

Road Closures:

  • Cannon Street, Gage Ave to Lottridge St, 5:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Cannon Street, Lottridge St to Stirton St, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Burlington Street (Eastbound), Bay St to Birch Ave, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Bay St, Stuart St to Burlington St, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Nicola Tesla Blvd (Eastbound), Birch Ave to Parkdale Ave, 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
  • York Blvd (Westbound), Locke St to Valley Inn Rd,  10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
  • Barton St (Westbound), Inchbury St to Queen St, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
  • Stuart St (Westbound), Queen St to Bay St, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Where and when do I turn in my Charity pledges?

Please contact your charity for specific info. Click here for charity partners page.

Is there a pasta dinner?

The Sheraton Hamilton is hosting a pasta dinner. Details here.

Can I still register?

All race categories are now full.

We have posted a message on Facebook for registrants who can no longer participate and want to sell their entry and for those wishing to purchase.  Beware of scammers. Please read our recommendations on the FB to avoid being scammed. Transfer info here. Online transfers available until March 10, 2024.

You can view our Facebook post here.

No race day registration.

Is there an expo? When? Where?

We are not hosting an Expo this year but several of our sponsors will be at Packet Pickup including:

  • Kintec
  • XACT Nutrition
  • MERIT Brewing
  • Marsquest
  • SURGE Activewear

Can I pick up my friend’s run packet? Can someone pick up my packet?

You or a friend can pick up your packet (Bib and Shirt) at Packet Pick Up on Friday or Saturday.

To avoid the wrong packet being issued, please bring one of the following:

  • A copy of the confirmation email OR
  • Photo ID

If picking up for someone, please have their bib numbers ready. Bib numbers will be assigned closer to race weekend.

When & where can I pick up my race packet?

Location: Tim Hortons Field, 64 Melrose Ave N

Packet Pick Up Hours
Fri March 22, 2024: 1:00pm – 6:00pm
Sat March 23, 2024: 10:00am – 5:00pm

THERE WILL BE NO RACE KIT PICK-UP ON RACE DAY UNLESS YOU HAVE THE ATB+ Race Day Pickup PACKAGE.

What am I picking up at Packet Pickup?

There isn’t a packet anymore but you will be picking up

  • your bib number which has the chip attached to the back
  • your race shirt if you registered for the 5K, 10K, 15K, or 30K or your running jacket if you registered for the Hammer Hybrid

*Remember, you need to bring your BIB to participate on race day.

Virtual participants will be mailed their race shirt or running jacket 4-6 weeks after the virtual race period ends as we will be waiting for your personalized medal plate.

Can I defer my entry to next year?

You can only defer your entry if you have purchased the ATB+ Defer Option Package and then sent us an email to exercise your option to defer by March 20, 2024.

I’m injured. I can’t make it anymore. What are my options?

  1. Transfer your entry to someone else. 
  1. Purchase the ATB+ Defer to 2025 Option. Details and info on the ATB+ Defer Option here.
  1. Request your shirt and medal to be sent by mail and run virtually at your convenience.  If you are taking this option.  Please confirm shirt size and mailing address in your registration profile is correct .  Please include suite/apt/unit number if applicable. Email info@bayrace.com with your request.

Click here for our Registration Policy.

Where & when can I register?

Online registration is now open. 30K, Hammer, and 15K race categories are full.

Do you need volunteers, and how do I sign up to volunteer?

Yes, with a new venue and new race routes, we need you more than ever.  This historic race could not be “run” without so many great volunteers.

If you have any friends or family who would like to help out, please feel free to invite them to volunteer with you.


If you do not have a Race Roster account, you will need to create one with an email and password to register as a volunteer.

.advgbbtn-4309e868-73fd-4486-843d-495573db3f4b{font-size:18px;color:#fff !important;background-color:#2196f3 !important;margin:0px 0px 0px 0px !important;padding:10px 30px 10px 30px;border-width:1px !important;border-style:none;border-radius:50px !important;}.advgbbtn-4309e868-73fd-4486-843d-495573db3f4b:hover{box-shadow:1px 1px 12px 0px #ccc;opacity:1;transition:all 0.2s ease;}.advgbbtn-4309e868-73fd-4486-843d-495573db3f4b > i {display: none !important;}

When and what streets are closed?

  • Cannon Street, Gage Ave to Lottridge St, 5:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Cannon Street, Lottridge St to Stirton St, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Burlington Street (Eastbound), Bay St to Birch Ave, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Bay St, Stuart St to Burlington St, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Nicola Tesla Blvd (Eastbound), Birch Ave to Parkdale Ave, 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
  • York Blvd (Westbound), Locke St to Valley Inn Rd,  10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
  • Barton St (Westbound), Inchbury St to Queen St, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
  • Stuart St (Westbound), Queen St to Bay St, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Where are the best places to watch the races?

  1. Where: Beach Blvd — Near the Lift Bridge
    How to get there: From Downtown Hamilton, head east on Main St. to Wellington St., turn north, follow to Burlington St. then east on Burlington, to the cut off for Woodward Ave. north on Woodward, which changes to Eastport Dr. Follow Eastport to the Lift Bridge area. Note: You should leave for this area prior to the race start.
  2. Where: Lasalle Park (Burlington)
    How to get there: From Downtown Hamilton, head west on King St. to Hwy 403 Toronto cut off. Proceed onto the 403 and follow to Waterdown Road in Burlington. Turn right then follow Waterdown road to Lasalle Park (approx 1.3km).
  3. Where: Dundurn Castle (York Blvd. at Dundurn St.)
    How to get there: Follow the course backwards on York Blvd. Parking available at Dundurn Castle.
  4. Where: Tim Hortons Field – Section 108
    How to get there: King St. or Main St to Gage Ave

How can I help keep the course clean?

We greatly respect the residents that allow us to host this historic race through their neighbourhoods and communities. We strongly encourage you to please hold onto your gel packs, tissues, and other unwanted items until you reach a water station where our volunteers can collect them in designated garbage receptacles.

Where can I view past results?

2023 Results will be posted at this link.

Please visit our Results & Photos page to view previous results dating back to 1894.

Is there a specific 30K training schedule I can follow?

Please see our Training page for links to training programs and race-specific training clinics.

Do you have a walking section for the 30K?

There isn’t a separate walking race category. Participants are welcome to walk if able to complete the 30K within the 5 hour course time limit.

The course time limit for the in-person 30K is 5 hours from the start of the horn at 9:30am. Participants must reach the 15K point by 12:00pm and the 20K 12:45pm to continue.

At the discretion of the POLICE, due to traffic control and runner safety, participants may be asked to walk along the sidewalks and obey traffic rules.

Official results posted for participants finishing within the course time limit.

Who receives medals?

All participants who finish within the course time limit will receive finisher medals in all race categories. Please click here for 30K Gold and Silver times.

Is this event a Boston qualifier?

No, The Around the Bay Road Race (since it is not a Marathon distance) is an excellent warm up for the Boston Marathon but it is not an official qualifying race.

What kind of weather is typical for the race?

Be prepared for any type of weather because the Bay Race has had it all. We can always count on a windy day especially down the Beach Strip. Layering is always a good idea. The average temperature on race weekend is a pleasant 4°C. Average rainfall for the month is 51mm.

When is next year’s race?

130th Anniversary – Sunday, March 24, 2024
131st Anniversary – Sunday, March 30, 2025

What are the in-person race categories?

  • 30 K race category is really 34K into Tim Hortons Field
  • 15K
  • 10K
  • 5 K
  • Relays are not offered this year.

There will be timing mats at the 30K mark. The course will be officially measured and 30K certified. Official results and standings for 30K chip time and official results and standings for Finish chip time (34K) into Tim Hortons Field. Please note, the fastest 30K chip time may not be the first person to finish inside Tim Hortons Field. The route into Tim Hortons Field is about 34K.

You can decide whether to lay up after the 30K mark or keep your pace to the Finish.
Medals are given inside Tim Hortons Field.

.wp-block-advgb-list ul.advgblist-567d7d33-bad5-472d-9ca8-c9b516e10376 > li{font-size:16px;}

CN

FAQ

FAQ

FAQ