When is the in-person 2025 miniMarathon & Marathon? 

Race Day and start time for runners will be: Saturday, April 26, at 7:00 AM. 

What are my race distance options for the 2025 Race? 

You can run either the: 

• Derby Festival miniMarathon: 13.1 miles 
• Derby Festival Marathon: 26.2 miles 
• Derby Festival Virtual Races: 13.1 miles & 26.2 miles option 
• Derby Festival Marathon Relay: 26.2 miles total (length divided between 3-5 relay members) 

*The miniMarathon is just a fun way to say a Half Marathon length! 

What is the course for the 2025 miniMarathon and Marathon? 

• Details for both courses are still being finalized and will be released soon!
• The in-person races will start simultaneously at 7 a.m. on Saturday, April 26, 2025, on Main Street, near Slugger Field. New in 2025, the Finish Line will return to Preston and Witherspoon streets, just outside of the Waterfront, for the first time since 2019.
• All race participants will get to experience the sights of downtown Louisville, the historic Old Louisville neighborhood, Churchill Downs (home of the Kentucky Derby), and parts of the scenic Olmsted Park System, among other attractions as they run. The courses for both distances will be in Kentucky, and the Marathon Course will go through Louisville’s South End with participants running along Southern Parkway and racing through Iroquois Park.

Will you offer refunds for registration?

Currently, we do not offer refunds for any of our races.

We encourage you to take advantage of the following options for normal race occurrences:  

1. PURCHASE RACE INSURANCE THROUGH REGSHIELD - Race day insurance is offered through RegShield and has to be purchased at the time of registration.  

To File a Claim: Use the policy number you received when you completed your insurance purchase to make the claim HERE.  

*For all questions about your Insurance policy, please contact RegShield.  

2. RACE BIB TRANSFER: You will have the option to transfer your race bib to another runner of your choosing for a $20 transfer fee. This must be done by April 11, 2025. 

 To edit or transfer your race registration: Log into your RunSignUp account. Go to your “Profile” page, click the “My Registered Races” and view a list of your registrations separated by race, event,  date  and registrant. Next to each registrant, you will be able to “View/Edit Registration,” which is where you will need to go to transfer your registration to another participant.  

Do you offer deferrals?

Yes, this year we will be offering the option for runners to defer their entry to the 2025 mini or Marathon for a small fee. All deferral requests must be submitted by April 11, 2025.

• miniMarathon: $30
• Marathon: $35
• Marathon Relay: $75

  *Deferrals will be honored for one year

Are there time limits for the course? 

Yes, there is a 4-hour course limit for the miniMarathon, and a 6-hour limit for the Marathon. 

THIS MEANS: All participants must maintain a 13:45  minute per mile pace for the Marathon or a 15:00 minute per mile in the Half Marathon (miniMarathon).  

*BECAUSE OF THE STRICT ADHERANCE TO THE MARATHON TIME LIMIT, WE WILL NOT BE ALLOWING WALKERS TO REGISTER FOR THE MARATHON THIS YEAR. 

How do I get my Race Bib & Participant Shirt? 

We will have the Race Expo and Packet Pick-Up inside Freedom Hall at the Kentucky Exposition Center. We’ll be sending more information about this in early Spring to the email you registered with. (We will also have more information here, on our website, & on our social media channels).

How do I register for the 2025 miniMarathon or Marathon? 

You can register now by heading to our RunSignUp registration page  HERE.

Is there an age requirement to run? 

The minimum age to participate in the miniMarathon is 12 years old, and 14 years old to participate in the Marathon. *Runners who are under the age of 18 will have to have a liability waiver signed by their legal guardian at packet pick-up.  

Can walkers participate? 

Walkers may participate in the miniMarathon only, but must be able to keep a 15:00 minute per mile pace. Walkers will not be permitted to register for the full marathon. All marathon participants must keep a 13:45 minute pace to complete the course within the 6hr time limit. 

Do you use start Corrals? 

Yes! We use the Corral System to maintain safety and pacing for our runners, which is why it is so important to stick to your assigned corral. There will be plenty of signage on Race Day to let you know where your assigned corral is. 

*Start Corrals are a system used to regulate the flow of runners out of the starting line. Runners are assigned to lettered start areas, based on previous race times or on predicted times. Faster runners will be towards the front, while more leisurely paces will be towards the end, making it safer and more smooth for all runners or walkers to move at their pace. 

The race starts at 7:00 AM (Don’t forget, we’re on Eastern Time for all you out-of-towners!), but we recommend getting to your place at your starting line corral no later than 6:45 AM. 

Can I request a specific corral? 

In a way, yes. Corral Systems are based on previous finishing times or estimated finishing time – which can be filled in at the time of registration. 

Preferred corrals at the front can be requested with following times. Submit proof of finishing time during registration.

miniMarathon Qualifying Time: Women – 1:52:00, Men – 1:35:00 

Marathon Qualifying Time: Women 3:45, Men 2:28 

We ask that you make finish times as accurate as possible, to make sure that the course is safe & enjoyable for everyone. (You can go back and update your time when it gets closer to race day.) 

Where do I park on race day?

Street parking is available near the Start and Finish Line areas. There are also multiple surface lots in the vicinity as well.

Will there be Age Group Awards this year? 

Yes. Runners will be able to compete for awards in all three in-person race categories: miniMarathon, Marathon and Wheelchair Division. The top three finishers from each Age Group will receive a special award.

Find more information about Awards here: https://derbyfestivalmarathon.com/race-information/awards/  

Is this a Boston Marathon Qualifying Race? 

The course will be USATF certified with the intention to be a Boston Marathon Qualifying Race. 

What is a Virtual Race?   

Runners who complete a Virtual Race have the advantage of running it on their own time. You can run the distance at your own pace, when and where you choose. This means you can even plan to run your distance in segments, not all at once. You will pick your own race day(s), and whether you run it in your neighborhood, a park or even on a treadmill.   

You will need to keep track of your distance using your phone, a GPS device or Fitness tracker, whether that’s during one run or multiple runs. We also recommend you map out your route ahead of time – using a GPS tracking app to create your own or using the Norton Health Training Program Routes you can find  HERE.  You can find more information below.  

When is the Virtual Race window for 2025? 

April 26 – May 26, 2025

Do I have to run my virtual race between April 26 – May 26?   

No, as a Virtual Runner, you choose your race date!  The time frame to submit virtual results will be from April 26 – May 26, 2025. 

Do I need to run the official miniMarathon or Marathon Race Course?   

No, you will be able to choose your own route for the virtual race. We encourage you to run a route you deem safe and familiar.

We recommend mapping out the route you plan to take beforehand, to make sure you’re prepared. There are many services, including using a GPS tracker on your smart phone, MapMyRun, Strava or even Google Maps.    

*Our traditional race day routes are not pedestrian safe without supporting equipment, race staff and road closures, so we ask that you please DO NOT try to utilize those courses for your virtual route.     

What Will I get for Completing my Virtual Race?   

A Virtual Runner will receive the 2025 Virtual race medal, as well as a custom cotton race shirt, access to the Virtual Race bag, and other perks.   

All Virtual Runner medals and shirt Finishers Packages will ship out AFTER the April 26th race date.  You will receive more information sent to the email you registered with, once shipments are ready to mail.  

Will I Have to Use My Phone, Running Watch, or Other Device to Record it and Upload Results?   

Yes, if you are tracking your results, you will need your phone, watch or other GPS device to record yourself. Then, whether you completed your virtual run in one day or over a few days, you can submit your results and finishing photo through your RunSignUp account between April 26 – May 26, 2025 so we can include it on our results page and share your accomplishment on social!  

If you need help uploading your results to RunSignUp,  CLICK HERE  for a quick “how to.”   

You can also share your “finish line” photos on social media by using the hashtag #DerbyFestivalmini or #DerbyFestivalMarathon so we can celebrate you in the social “Winner’s Circle”! 

*You will still receive your virtual race package, whether you submit your results or not 

How and When Will I get my Virtual Race Package?   

You will receive a shirt and medal for the race you completed virtually in the mail, along with your other swag. We will mail your package to the address provided during the registration process.  (You will receive more information to the email you registered with, once shipments are ready to mail.)  

Be on the lookout for digital goodies in your email as well, printable Finisher Certificates and more! 

Will the Virtual Race be a Qualifier for the Boston Marathon?   

Since you’ll be creating your own course, which will not be certified, you will not be eligible for Boston Marathon qualification.   

Will there be Age Group Awards for the Virtual Races?    

As everyone will be on the honor system and submitting their own finish times, we will not be offering awards for the virtual races.   

How Can I Register as a New Runner for a Derby Festival Virtual Race?   

You can register now by heading to our RunSignUp registration page  HERE.

Can I update my Official T-Shirt?

Yes, you can make changes to your tee shirt size at any time before the race. Options can be found by going to your “Profile” page, clicking on “My Registered Races”, and then selecting “Edit/View Registration”. Please login to RunSignUp with the user account you used to register. For more details about updating your T-Shirt size:  https://help.runsignup.com/support/solutions/articles/17000062913-update-t-shirt-giveaway 

Can I go back and add on an Official Race Medal engraving, merchandise, etc. to my Registration later?

Absolutely! Runners that have already registered can go into their profile and add-on the following items: Event pins and Medal Engraving. For more details about adding-on to the existing registrations:

https://help.runsignup.com/support/solutions/articles/17000062916-add-on-management

How do I resend the Confirmation Email?

Go to your “Profile” page, click on “My Registered Races”, and then select “Edit/View Registration”. Please login to RunSignUp with the user account you used to register. For more detailed instructions, go to: https://help.runsignup.com/support/solutions/articles/17000062918-resend-the-confirmation-email

How do I claim Race Insurance?

We offer RegShield for event registration insurance. Event registration insurance protects participants for 100% of their registration and processing fees for races that they are unable to attend for covered reasons, but must be purchased at the time you complete your registration.

If you chose to purchase the insurance, you should have received an email with the policy from RegShield, and information on how to request your refund.

Click on the link below to claim an event insurance: https://help.runsignup.com/support/solutions/articles/17000073422-claiming-event-insurance

How do I transfer my Race Entry/Bib to another runner or to another race distance?

Runners can transfer race categories to another runner, or even into another race distance (within miniMarathon or Marathon) along with the $20.00 transfer fee. Transferring options can be found by going to your “Profile” page, clicking on “My Registered Races”, and then selecting “Edit/View Registration”. Please login to RunSignUp with the user account you used to register. The deadline is 4/11/2025.

The second step to transfer to another runner can be found in these steps: https://runsignup.com/How-To/Transfer-To-Another-Runner

How do I pick up my Race Bib Packet & T-Shirt ?

At the Race Expo & Packet Pick-Up event at Freedom Hall at the Kentucky Exposition Center on April 24^th & 25th.

When is the Expo and Pick-up?

Thursday, April 24th, 2025
4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Friday, April 25th, 2025
11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Where is the Expo and Pick-up?

It will be held at Freedom Hall at the Kentucky Exposition Center

Where do I Park?

There is a parking lot at Freedom Hall at the Kentucky Exposition Center. Park in KEC lots E & J through Gate 4 (2801 Crittenden Drive, Louisville Ky 40209).

What do I need to bring with me?

Make sure to bring a copy of the Registration QR code provided at the bottom of any emails from RunSignUp. You can print this, or just pull it up on your phone.

Can a friend or family member pick up my bib for me?

Yes, a friend or family member can pick up your bib if they have the QR code that is attached to all emails you have received from the GE Appliances Kentucky Derby Festival miniMarathon and Marathon.

What if I am an out-of-state runner and cannot make it to the Expo and Packet Pick-up?

You will be able to have another friend, family member or runner pick up your packet and shirt for you as long as they have the QR code that is included in all emails you have received from GE Appliances Kentucky Derby Festival miniMarathon and Marathon.

What if I never received the email with my QR Code?

Go to the Runners’ Services table at the Race Expo & Packet Pick-Up, and they will be able to help you!

What if I have the wrong corral assignment?

Go to the Runners’ Services table at the Race Expo & Packet Pick-Up, and they will be able to help you!

Where are the Start and Finish Lines?

The Start Line will be at Main and Floyd Streets, near Louisville Slugger Field

The Finish Line will be on Preston and Witherspoon streets, just outside of the Waterfront

What time does the Race Start?

This year’s race will begin at 7AM

Is GE Appliances mini & Marathon still a loop course? 

Yes, the course is a loop course, with the Start Line Being at Louisville Slugger Field and the Finish Line being at the Waterfront (about a mile apart).

Are there time limits for the course?

Yes. There is a 4-hour course limit for the miniMarathon, 6-hour course limit for the Marathon.

THIS MEANS: All participants must maintain a 15:00 minute mile in the half Marathon (miniMarathon), 13:45 minute per mile pace in the Marathon.

The roads will re-open behind runners maintaining a 15-minute-per-mile pace. A trail car will re-open the roads. The trail car starts after the runners in the last corral cross the Start Line.

But Don’t Panic…participants will be allowed to complete the course by moving to the sidewalk and following pedestrian rules for safety.

*PLEASE BE ADVISED: Course services will not be available beyond this pace time, and course deviations may happen if a runner is not keeping the projected race time.

Do you offer runner tracking?

Yes! We partner with the free app RaceJoy, to offer live Tracking & Progress Alerts on Race Day. Before the race, DOWNLOAD THE APP.

Once downloaded to your mobile device, you will want to search & select the Kentucky Derby Festival race you are participating in, using the search box. The app will then walk you through how to use your bib number for Progress Alerts, Live Tracking, customizing notifications and using Send-A-Cheer to share time targeted messages with runners.

What refreshments and nutrition will you have on the race route? 

We will have water stops and Powerade locations on the route, thanks to our friends at the Louisville Water Company and Powerade

Where are the Water Stops along the race route?

We will have several water stop locations on the route.

What items are prohibited on the race course?

• Roller Skates (including in-line skate)
• Bicycles (including hand crank bicycles)
• Baby Strollers
• Running Strollers
• Animals
• There will be NO bags allowed on this year’s course. You will have the opportunity to leave all belongings at gear check located at Louisville Slugger Field. Camel Backs & Water Bags will be allowed.

Can I use a mobile device and/or head phones on the route?

Yes! We encourage you to download the RaceJoy App to better enjoy your race experience.

What should I do if I need medical attention along the route?

If it is an emergency, please contact 9-1-1.

We will have medics surveying the course, as well as medical stops along the route, however we highly recommend if your need is urgent to contact emergency services.

Where should I stay?

Since the start & finish lines are located in the center of downtown Louisville, we recommend staying somewhere in that vicinity.

We partner with The Galt House Hotel, the Official Race Headquarters, to make the race experience smooth for our out-of-town guests.

Recommended to do while in Louisville?

Lucky for you, you’re arriving in Louisville during the Kentucky Derby Festival – two weeks of parties and events celebrating that Louisville tradition we all know and love. You can find a schedule of those events here.

We also recommend that you check out Louisville Tourism’s website for more information on local attractions, restaurants and other unique experiences. (Or you can give them a call at 1-800-626-5646).

How do I get to the Expo & Packet Pick-Up event?

The Expo & Packet Pick-Up is located at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Freedom Hall, which is located near Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport.

(For parking and location information, please see EXPO & PACKET PICK-UP QUESTIONS section.)

What if I don’t get to town in time for the Expo & Packet Pick-up?

You will be able to have another friend, family member or runner pick up your packet and shirt for you with a copy of your valid I.D. and bib number.