FAQs

Where do I park on race day?

There are several parking lots around the downtown square as well as some on street parking. Parking signs will be posted to help you find appropriate lots. All are within walking distance of the start and finish lines. Click here for the parking map.

Does everyone receive a tech shirt?

Yes, all registered Half Marathon participants will receive a tech shirt--you choose the size when you register.

Where do I pick up my race packet?

Your race packet and shirt will be available for pickup at our Health and Wellness Expo. Click here for more details.

Can I pick up my packet the day of the race?

There will be no packet pick-up on the day of the race.

Can a friend pick up my packet?

Yes. The friend needs proof stating that you give them permission to pick up your packet.

Am I allowed to walk the race?

Yes, but be mindful that the course is open for four hours and if you are on the course longer than that you may not have volunteer and aid station support.

Are dogs allowed to run with me?

Dogs are not allowed on the course due to safety concerns.

Are strollers allowed on the course?

Strollers are allowed, but we ask that you keep your child in the stroller for the duration of the course unless you are stopped at an aid station. 

I lost or forgot my bib, what do I do next?

In the unlikely event you forget or loose your bib on race day, please visit the information tent by the start line and see a race official.

Will the course be closed?

The course will have a rolling close. Volunteers and police will be placed at key intersections and road crossings to control traffic.

How far apart are the Hydration and Medical Stations?

Feeling thirsty? Need first Aid? Hydration and Medical Stations will be every 1.8-2.3 miles apart. Stations will be equipped with water. 

Is there an age limit on the Half Marathon?

Yes, participants must be at least 12 years of age on the day of the race in order to run in the Run Bentonville Half Marathon.

Can I get a refund?

Refunds will be granted in specific medical situations only. We are happy to give you your goodie bag and shirt if you are unable to run in the race for any reason. You may have someone pick it up for you with a signed copy of your registration confirmation, or we will mail it to you after the race if you live out of the area. If we are unable to hold the event due to unforeseen circumstances, we will be happy to transfer your registration to the following year. Please contact us with any questions regarding our refund policy.

I'm from out of town. Where should I stay?

Click HERE for travel and hotel information. 

How do I register to volunteer for the race?

Volunteer with us HERE

Who benefits from the proceeds of the race?

The Run Bentonville Half Marathon is truly a community event. Bentonville Parks and Recreation relies on the revenue generated from the race for the creation and maintenance of new and/or existing parks and programs, departmental administrative costs, and other park amenities within the City of Bentonville. The race helps our team provide great programs like our 4th of July fireworks show and other great community events.

What are the future dates of the RunBentonville Half Marathon?

Next Years Race Date:

How does the Run Bentonville Half Marathon Relay race work?

It's simple! Two people form a team to run the Run Bentonville Half Marathon and sign up using the Relay option in the registration website. One person on the team will run the first half of the race to the relay exchange point (Gilmore Park in the 2022 RBHM) where they will meet up with their teammate who will run the second half of the race.

What if I have a question that is not answered here?

Please email run@bentonvillear.com and we'll do our best to assist.

What day is the race?

Can I change the distance that I originally registered for (ie switch from the half marathon to the 5K)?

Yes, please email run@bentonvillear.com if you would like to drop to a lower distance. All upgrades must be done at the late registration table during packet pickup. No refunds/credits will be issued for a decreased distance. You will have to pay the balance owed for an increased distance.

What amenities do I get for finishing?

All runners will receive a Run Bentonville Half Marathon branded participant shirt, JUNK brand headband, finisher's medal, FREE downloadable race photos, and FREE recovery snack options at the Finish Line Celebration presented by CamelBak. The Relay AND Half Marathon finishers also receive a finisher's hoodie.

When does registration close?

Online registration will close at 11:59pm on Tuesday, April 1. Late registration is available at the Health & Wellness Expo. There is NO race day registration.

When do registration prices increase?

Registration prices:

Half Marathon:

$105

$120 after 4/1/2025

Half Marathon Relay (2 person):

$70/each

$85/each after 4/1/2025

5K:

$35

$45 after 4/1/2025

Half Marathon - Starting Corrals

What You Need to Know

Because It’s More Than a Run — it’s your race experience.

To create a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable start, the Run Bentonville Half Marathon will utilize starting corrals.

Here’s how it works:

What Is a Starting Corral?

A starting corral is a designated group of runners organized by estimated finish time.

This allows you to begin the race alongside runners moving at a similar pace — creating a more comfortable and efficient first few miles.

Why Are We Using Corrals?

As our race continues to grow, thoughtful planning at the start line becomes essential.

Corrals help us:

• Reduce congestion in the opening miles

• Improve flow on the course

• Minimize crowding at aid stations

• Create a better overall experience for every runner

A strong start sets the tone for your entire race.

How Are Corrals Assigned?

Corrals are organized based on the estimated finish time you provided during registration.

This helps ensure that runners of similar pace start together, making the first few miles smoother for everyone.

Timing & Awards:

• Age Group Awards are based on your chip time, which starts when you cross the starting line.

• Overall Awards are based on gun time (the official race start signal).

Your corral assignment will be communicated prior to race weekend and will also appear on your race bib.

Can I Start With a Friend?

If you and a friend are assigned to different corrals, you may move back to a later corral to start together.

However, moving forward into a faster corral will not be permitted.

If you need to adjust your estimated finish time, please do so during our open window mid-March. We will share messaging about this open time.

Corral changes will not be made on race morning.

Will the Start Be Staggered?

All corrals will move forward together at the official start.

However, your corral placement helps space runners naturally as the race unfolds.