Q: Where does the race start?
A: Race starts at the boardwalk. Parking and starting are within blocks of each other. For details, click here for the course map (it’s also on the Race Information sub-menu).
Q: What time should I be at the race?
A: If you are picking up your packet on Race Day, get there between 6 AM – 6:45 AM. Please allow extra time, race morning could be hectic.
Q: Is there somewhere on the website that shows the route of the race?
A: Yes, you can click here for the course map (it’s also on the Race Information sub-menu).
Q. What is the race time limit, and it is a hard limit?
A: The time limit is two (2) hours, and strictly enforced! Bridge races involve special permission and cooperation by local authorities, police and emergency response, and impact motor vehicle traffic. In order to keep doing these races we must comply with the limits set by those agencies. Runners who are trailing far behind may not be allowed back on the bridge for their final loop.
Q: Where is packet pick-up?
A: Please check the Packet Pick-Up page.
Q: Can I register at packet pickup or on RACE DAY?
A: Yes, IF the limit of registrations has not been filled. Note that we can’t guarantee shirt/goodies bag on race day.
Q: Do you accept credit cards at Packet Pick-up and Race Day registration?
A: We sure do!
Q. What is the minimum age requirement and do you need a parents or guardian’s consent to participate?
A. The minimum age for the 10K is 6 years, and we do need the signature of a consenting parent or guardian.
Q: Can I pick up my friend’s packet?
A: Yes
Q: I registered but couldn’t make it, can I get a refund or defer my registration to next year?
A: There is NO RAINCHECK for this event. Your entry fee for this year’s event CANNOT be transferred to next year’s event, and there are NO REFUNDS, no exceptions. This policy stays in effect whether you are injured, have an unexpected business or family emergency, pregnancy, etc. There are NO exceptions. Seriously.
Q: I registered but couldn’t make it – I know there are no refunds, what are my options?
A: You can donate your entry to charity, you will get a cash donation receipt. Just let us know!
Or you can transfer your entry to another person, contact us to do so. Information about transfer fee schedule is on the Registration page.
Transfer policy for Texas Bridge Series all-in-one registrations:
Transfers of all three races to one person adhere to regular transfer rules.
We cannot split all-in-one registrations to transfer races to two or three different runners.
PLEASE NOTE that there is an immediate disqualification for anyone who runs under another person’s bib other than the person of record.
Q: I registered for Kemah, now I would like to register for the other two. And will I get the Series commemorative item?
A: You can register for each race separately, or see us at packet pickup, we will register you then. You will get the Series commemorative item as long as you run all three races.
Q: I paid my registration fee but couldn’t attend the race. Can you mail my race packet to me or can I pickup my packet after the race?
A: No. All unclaimed race packets will be given to late registrants at the race.
Q: I left early, but it looks like I won an award. Can you mail it to me?
A. No, we do not mail out awards after the race. You may be able to pick up your award at a designated location, usually one of the packet pick-up spots. Check with us via the Contact form.
Q: Where do I get my timing chip?
A: Timing chip is attached to your bib.
Q. What if I forget my chip or bib at home?
A. If you loose or forget your bib there will be a $10 charge to reissue you a new bib.
Q. The shirt in my packet doesn’t fit, can I exchange it for a different size?
A. We post deadlines for both bib name and shirt size selection, and order shirts in advance according to what you selected if you register by those deadlines. We estimate the remainder. If we have any extras after the race you are welcome to exchange, but if the race fills, extras for exchange are unlikely.
Q. Will there be port-a-potties?
A: Yes, they will be located near registration and packet pick- up. For details see the course map on the Info page.
Q. What are your contingency plans for bad weather?
A. See policy below:
A. Rain– The event will NOT be canceled due to rain alone unless the downpour is such that athletes, police, and volunteers lose visibility making situations unsafe. If this occurs we will wait until the rain subsides and follow the same procedure listed for lightning conditions (minus the 30-minute rule). Athletes will be informed of such a change via announcements on race morning.
Lightning – In the event of lightning the race will be postponed by 30 minutes every time lightning is spotted and thunder is heard within 6 miles of the event. Please note that every time lightning strikes and thunder is heard within 6 miles of the race site we must delay the start by 30 minutes.
Tornado Warning – If at anytime before (race morning close to starting time) or during the event, a tornado warning is issued, the race will be canceled.
On Course Cancellation – If the race is canceled due to storms (lightning and/or excessive rain) or tornado warnings while it is in progress we will do everything in our power to alert everyone on the course. All police, SAG, and medical personnel will be made aware and do all they can to warn and SAG in all participants. We will also do everything in our power to assist those that are still on course. Those that are on course without means of rescue should seek immediate shelter via open stores, buildings, garages, homes and/or any other means of protection from the dangerous conditions. If it gets worse and we are not there to help you off the course please do everything you can to keep yourself safe and take shelter.
Because of agreements with the Texas Department of Transportation and various municipalities regarding a fixed amount of time to have roads closed or in use or the time of public safety or law enforcement officials, Running Alliance Sport, at any time, reserves the right to shorten the distance of any of its races to comply, especially in dealing with inclement weather conditions that may make any course unavailable or unsuitable for runner participation.
Q: I have a question about the Texas Bridge Series…
A: Have you checked the Texas Bridge Series page? Click here for the Bridge Series FAQ.
Q: We are planning to combine this race with a short vacation to visit the Kemah Boardwalk, NASA Space Center, and Galveston. Can you recommend a hotel?
A: Yes! We have a list of hotels. (Note: 2012 info) Click here (PDF)
Q. Hi, I’m registered for the Toughest 10k and I have been trying to find out what the incline of the bridge is so I can prepare myself. Can you please help me answer this?
A. According to TxDOT, it features a 4.3-percent grade from north to south and a 5-percent grade from south to north, as it rises to about 83 feet over the water.
Q:How many times do I have to go over the bridge?
A: Twice, out and back.
Q: Are walkers allow in the race?
A: Walkers are welcome! However, you must be able to average a 19-20 min/mile pace for the race. A 2-hour time limit for all participants will be strictly enforced!
Q: Can I run with a baby jogger/stroller?
A: Unfortunately the bridge is too crowded to maintain runner safety and allow for strollers, please do not bring them. If you push a stroller on your run you may be removed from the course, and will be disqualified (removed) from the results.
Q: Can I have my favorite pet/dog run with me?
A: No. If you bring your pet with you, you may be removed from the course, and will be disqualified (removed) from the results.
Q: Can I participate with my wheelchair?
A: We’re sorry, at this time the race is not insured for wheelchair racing.
Q. Can I wear my headphones?
A. The RRCA (our insurance provider) has a written guideline against the use of personal music devices in running events, as such we strongly discourage the use of headphones in our races. If you must use headphones, please only use one earpiece.
Q: What type of race shirt will I receive?
A: A technical shirt.
Q. Will there be a non water drink available at the aid stations?
A: Yes, it will be Lemon Lime Gatorade.