What's New in 2024/2025?

1. We'll race in April instead of March. This allows our members to race the Shamrock Run in March and also have a race in April when there aren't many races yet. 2. Prizes are cash instead of a gift card and we've extended the number of winners to the top five. 3. There is more opportunity to earn points. Points now start at 25 for 1st, and go down to 5 points for participation. 4. Register early! We're closing registration Friday at 5 p.m. before each race to allow volunteers enough time to prepare for the race. 5. We'll email registered participants their start time on Friday evening. 

How do you predict my time?

We use the following formula developed by Peter Riegel using your last Catch Me if You Can! race series result. If it’s your first race in the series, you provide your best guess using a recent race time (note first time racers score participation points, regardless of place). 

T2 = T1 x (D2 / D1) ^ 1.06

How do I know when my start time is?

We start at 9 a.m. with runners at predicted pace of 15 min/mile. We send people off individually based on their predicted times and end with the fastest predicted runner.

We'll post your individual start times on our Race Day Details page. Just registered and don't see your name? We'll upate on the list Friday night before each race, after registration closes. We'll also email the list to all registered runners on Friday night before each race (~6:30 p.m.).

When you get to the race, check in with a volunteer to get your bib entered into the timing app. Then be near the start line a few mintues before your start time. The timer volunteer will call out your name and count down to send you off. 

I want to change my start time? Run with a friend?

You cannot change the start time we provide you. The race format is based on predicted times. Making changes on race day creates a lot of extra work for our volunteers, so it is not allowed. Instead of running next to a friend, it's best to race individually and then catch up over a hot beverage at the end - eveyone is predicted to finish at approximatley the same time, so it's perfect for socializing.

I want to run, but need assistance - Can I run with someone?

Some runners may need assistance to navigate the course-for example, young children or adults that might feel safer with a buddy. Please email us before the race so we can adjust our start time calculations and point scoring data. Grouped runners will start with the slowest predicted runner and only that runner will be eligible for series points based on finish order. Runners assisting a racer will receive volunteer points (5) and their time will not be used to predict future race efforts.  

It might be snowy, icy or cold - will you cancel? How will I know? 

It’s winter in Montana, so we will definitely encounter snow, ice and cold temperatures at some point. You are the best judge of whether it’s safe for you to run. We will host the race unless the air temperature is below 0°F or wind chill below -20°F. If that happens, we’ll postpone the race to the following Saturday. If it happens two weekends in a row, we’ll cancel and see you at the next race in the series. Race communication will go out to your registration email.

Are there aid stations?

No, please bring your own hydration if you need it. Each race is held at a park with vault toilets near the start/finish line. There are no bathrooms on the course.  

I placed in my first race. How come I only got participation points?

You will only be eligible for the participation points in your first series race. Because you are racing against your predicted time, everyone needs one timed race in the series for a fair competition for the prizes.

RunSignup isn't recognizing my Rim Runners membership?

Please make sure that you are using the same email you used when you registered to be a Yellowstone Rim Runner. Your club membership needs to be current for each race in the series, so RunSignup may prompt you to renew your membership if your current membership expires during the series. For membership renewals, your year membership starts after your current expiration date, so there is no penalty for renewing early. Can't remember your email or still having problems? Email us at gorimrunners@gmail.com and we'll help you out.

What happens if there is a tie? 

If there is a tie for a single race, the points will be averaged between the two places. If there is a tie for the overall series, the prize money will be split between the places. For example if there is an overall series points tie for first ($100 prize) and second place ($75 prize), both people will get $87.50.

Can I run with a stroller?

Yes, all our runs will be on paved paths. There is a small section of the Riverfront Park trail (The Chill 4K) that is old and crumbly (read: not really paved anymore), but it’s still relatively hard packed. Of course, there may be ice or snow on the path.

Can I walk?

Yes, walkers are always welcome at any Rim Runner event. Walkers have a choice in how to participate: Competitive Walking or Social Walking

Competetive Walkers: Walkers with a pace of 15 minutes per mile or faster will receive a bib, be timed, and are eligible for points. You will follow the same course and rules as the runners. 

Social Walkers: Walk any length you like and we'll let you know what time to return, so you can grab a hot drink with everyone. No time will be recorded and no points awarded. No bib is needed, but we ask that you still register so we have a head count for drinks and check-in at the race, so we know who is on the course. When you get near the finish line, we ask you to walk single file or finish the course a little early, so racers have fewer people to pass at the end. It gets crowded near the end at the finish line with this race format.  

Can I run with my dog? 

No. We ask that you leave dogs at home for this series. We love our dogs as running partners too, but the race can get crowded on the trail at the end so we ask that you leave your four legged running partners at home for this one.

Can I race virtually?

No. The series is in-person only and you must be present to earn points.