Why is NYRR capping races?
At NYRR races, our commitment is to deliver a high-quality runner experience. Our races are more popular than ever, so we are capping our races to enhance the race-day experience for all.

Is this a permanent change?
Caps will be in place for the foreseeable future. We will pay close attention to all aspects of capped races, particularly the registration process, and we will monitor runner behavior and feedback. If you have a comment about capped races, please e-mail webmaster@nyrr.org.

What will happen when a capped race "sells out?"
When a capped race is filled, online registration will close and runners who mail or fax their entry will be informed that we cannot accept them. We will post a message on the website and place an outgoing message on the NYRR main number that the race has reached capacity. Number pickup will take place as usual, but we will not be able to register runners at pickup.

Will I still be able to register for races on race day?
We recommend that runners register early if they wish to run a particular race. Registration dates will be posted online in advance of the opening of registration. If a race reaches its capacity in advance of race day, there will be no race-day registration. If a race does not reach its capacity in advance, race-day registration may be available on a limited basis.

Is there any way that I can run in a capped race that has reached its capacity?
Once a race has reached capacity, registration will close. Only registered runners may take part in NYRR races; runners who attempt to run without a number and timing chip, or with a number and/or timing chip that have been issued to another runner or for another race, will face disqualification and possible banning from future NYRR races, including the ING New York City Marathon.

Will there be a waiting list for capped races that have reached their capacity?
At the moment, no. We will revisit this policy in mid-2009.

If I register for a race and then decide not to run it, can I give or sell my entry to a friend, or return it to NYRR so someone else can get into the race?
Entries are non-transferable, and there are no cancellations or refunds. There are “no-shows” at every race, and we will factor that into the number of entries we accept for each capped race.

I’m a lifetime/annual benefactor. Am I exempt from the race caps?
No.

I want to qualify for guaranteed entry to the ING New York City Marathon 2010. What if I can’t fulfill the “9 + 1” requirement because I can’t get into races that have been capped?
Runners who pay close attention to the opening of race registration should not have trouble registering for races before the cap is reached.

I need to run the NYRR team-points races to support my team. What if registration for a points race closes before I’m able to register?
Members of clubs/teams will be best served by registering early for team-points races. NYRR will remind Club Council representatives of the schedule of team-points races in advance of the opening of registration for each team-points race.