FAQ

Will this race get me into Boston?

Yes. The Minuteman BQ Marathon is a USATF certified Boston Marathon qualifier. Since the race is on September 6 2026, a qualifying finish here makes you eligible to register for the Spring 2027 Boston Marathon — the very next one. We will keep you updated on BAA registration windows as they are announced.

What time do I need to qualify?

Please see the official BAA qualifying standards → for your age and gender. Your chip time is used as your official qualifying time.

Is the course certified?

Yes. The course is USATF certified (certificate #MA23005JK) and fully eligible as a Boston Marathon qualifier.

What is the field size?

The race is limited to 50 runners. Once full, registration closes. We do not maintain a waitlist.

What is the time limit?

The course cutoff is 5 hours from your wave start time.

When and where is bib & packet pickup?

Please see the Race Information page for full details. The short version: Saturday September 5 is strongly encouraged (10 AM – 6 PM at 673 Massachusetts Ave, Arlington), though race-morning pickup is also available.

How do the personal fuel stations work?

Every runner gets access to a personal fuel station near the start/finish line, passed once per loop (every 6 km). Bring your own bottles filled with whatever you train with and you will get a label with your bib number.

The setup has three tables — a main table plus two overflow tables 20 m and 50 m ahead — so you have three to places to leave the bottle along the loop without stopping. You may bring up to 7 bottles total.

Do you offer pacers?

Yes. See the current pace groups on the homepage →

Are personal pacers allowed?

Yes, personal pacers are welcome. Please contact us in advance so we can plan accordingly.

Is there a gear check?

Yes, gear check is available at the start/finish line. September mornings on the Minuteman Bikeway can be cooler than during daytime, so plan accordingly.

Will there be a finisher medal?

Yes. Every finisher receives a custom medal, regardless of whether you hit your qualifying goal — as long as you finish within the 5-hour time limit.

Is a race shirt included?

Yes. Every registered runner receives a custom running singlet in their race packet.

Are there awards?

No, This race is built around one goal: your Boston qualifier.

Can I get a refund, deferral, or transfer?

No refunds. Deferrals to the following year and transfers to another runner are available. Email info@minutemanbq.com or visit our contact page. Please do not hand off your bib without going through the official transfer process.

Have a question not answered here?

Reach us at info@minutemanbq.com or through our contact page.