News

Updated Information Presented by John Weaver, Race Director weaverjt@retired.appstate.edu

This is an update on the Grandfather Marathon. At this point, the Highland Games is making plans to stage the Games this year. It means that we can run the marathon with some changes to address Covid protocol. We have all been through this reality, so we will follow protocol or we can not have the race.

Online registration will begin Tuesday, May 4th at 7:00am. The link and any other information will be located on this website. Please keep in mind that the marathon registration has not closed prior to the first of June, so an urgent registration is not necessary on May 4th. This is simply the beginning of registration.

We are going to register 400. This will be a new registration for everyone. Only one entry per person (can not have your name entered twice). We will delete one of the entries. We will not substitute, transfer or replace any entries later. Details concerning this will be in an information sheet sent to all of the 2021 entries soon after May 4th.

The race is Saturday, July 10th at 6:30 am beginning in or near the football stadium (Kidd Brewer Stadium) on the campus of Appalachian State University. All details will be sent to entrants after May 4th and as entries come in after that date.

Covid protocol includes:

• Face masks must be worn at all times at packet pickup areas and at the start line area up to the start of the race. After the race has begun, masks can be removed once you are separated from those around you. We will use one start with some separation. Refusal to wear a mask as indicated will warramt disqualification from the race.
• Once runners cross the finish line, they must put their masks back on or put on the mask given to them at the finish line. The Highland Games will have a mask requirement. There will be 13 water/Gatorade stations on the course. Some food, water and Gatorade will be provided at the marathon tent near the finish line.
• There will be no parking at the Highland Games, so we will be sending information about shuttles to and from the Highland Games for spectators associated with runner/runners and Games entry passes for those
  spectators.
• We are glad to announce we can provide housing for one night for anyone interested in a dorm at ASU as in the past. Details along with all other information quickly after May 4th to all entries.

These are the regulations for this year’s race. It is what allows us, at this time, to have the race. If protocols change before July 9th, we will make the appropriate changes. We are confident that everyone involved in this year’s race understands and will comply. Also, we have been asked by the Highland Games to request anyone with pre-existing conditions and can not wear a mask, not enter the race this year.