FAQ

1. Will there be food and drinks at the end?
Yes, we will have food and drinks for all participants at the end of the race. There will be water in the pre-race area at Burns & McDonnell and at aid stations along the race course. We will also have Gatorade at the aid stations.

2. Where does the race start? Where does it end?
Both the half marathon and 5K begin and end on Ward Parkway in front of the Burns & McDonnell World Headquarters, 9400 Ward Parkway.

3. Where does the course go?
Both races will be run on Ward Parkway, with the half marathoon course also going up to and around Loose Park. Course maps are available here.

4. It looks like there will not be a Rock the Parkway 10K this year. Is that correct?
We decided to eliminate the 10K in order to improve the race experience for the participants by reducing congestion for the 5K and half marathon finishers.

5. What if it rains?
We will run in the rain, cold or snow. However, if it is unsafe to run/walk, the race director reserves the right to cancel the race.

6. What if I am unable to attend? Can I get a refund?
There will be no refunds of registration fees for the race.

7. Do I have to register online? How do I verify my registration?
You can register online or download a registration form by clicking here and mailing it to KC Running Company 3879 W. 95th St. Leawood, KS 66206. You can verify your registration at any time by clicking here.

8. Where and when is packet pickup?
All participants will be able to pick up their bib numbers, timing chips and event T-shirts at the Rock the Parkway Race Expo, the location of which will be announced soon. See the packet pick up times on the race info page.

9. Where do I park on race day?
There will be parking at a number of locations in the area surrounding the start/finish. Watch for the participant's guide to be posted early 2012.

10. May I switch race distances after I register?
You can switch from the half marathon to the 5K up through packet pickup on April 13, but not on race day. You cannot switch from the 5K to the half marathon. To make changes prior to packet pickup, please email the race director.

11. What if my name is spelled wrong, my age is wrong, etc.?
No problem. Just email the race director to make the necessary changes to your registration.

12. I registered but can’t participate; can I still pick up my T-shirt?
Yes. Please stop by and pick up your bib, and race shirt at packet pickup (dates and times are on the race info page). Shirts and medals will NOT be mailed.

13. I won’t be able to participate. May I transfer my registration to next year or give it to a friend?
No. We're sorry, but we do not allow you to transfer your registration for next year or transfer registration to another person. There will be no refunds.

14. I have a friend who would like to volunteer. How can they help?
Please go to the Volunteers page for more information on volunteer needs and to sign up.

15. Can a friend or family member pick up my packet?
Yes. Just be sure to let the participant know that you have picked up their packet to reduce confusion as we will not be able to keep track of who picked the packet up.

16. I am traveling from out of town. Are there hotels nearby?
Visit the Hotel Information page for a list of several hotels within a few miles of the race, including the host hotel, Sheraton Overland Park.

Within 2 miles:
Courtyard by Marriott South Kansas City, 816-941-3333
Extended Stay America, 816-943-1315.

Within 4 miles:
Settle Inn, 913-381-5700
Hyatt Place Overland Park, 913-491-9002
Holiday Inn & Suites Overland Park, 913-312-0900
Hilton Garden Inn Overland Park, 913-345-2661

17. What charitable organization will my participation benefit?
We are once again excited to partner with Science City at Union Station as the 2012 Rock the Parkway charity partner. Visit our charity page for more information.