Frequently Asked Questions
How do I join the Museum of Science marathon team?
Beginning in September, fill out the application available on this website and mail, fax, or email it using the provided contact information.
Are there any requirements to join the team?
Yes. You must commit to a fundraising goal of at least $3,250, attend two of the first three team training runs (Late November and December 2010), be at least 18 years old on April 18, 2011, and be able to finish the 26.2 mile course in under 6 hours. You are also responsible for $100 team fee and $250 B.A.A. Boston Marathon® registration fee. All fees are non-refundable.
Can I raise more than the $3,250 minimum?
Of course! The "suggested" fundraising goal is $5,000 per team member. We will be looking for team members who have a substantial fundraising goal.
What happens if I don't meet the $3,250 fundraising minimum?
This is a minimum set by Boston Athletic Association®. When you agree to join the team, we will ask you for your credit card information. If you have raised less than the $3,250 minimum by April 1, 2011, we will charge your credit card for the difference. However, we are hopeful that we will not face this situation and we remain available as a resource to help you reach your goal.
What if I can't make any of the training runs?
Our goal is to build a strong team, and it is our hope that you will be able to attend as many meetings and training runs as possible. However, we understand that people have busy schedules, so we ask that you let us know when you have a conflict.
What happens if I get injured or have to drop out?
If you are injured or have to drop out of the race before January 14, 2011, you are under no obligation to continue raising money for the Museum of Science Traveling Programs, and we will keep any donations that you have received up to that point. We wish you a speedy recovery and hope that you stay in touch and consider running next year.
If you are injured or choose to drop out of the race after January 14, it will be too late to find a new runner to take your place, and you are still responsible for the $3,250 minimum. However, we will try our best to convince the Boston Athletic Association to defer your number so you can run for the Museum of Science the following year with no additional fundraising obligation.
Do I have to stay with the Museum of Science team during the Boston Marathon?
Absolutely not! We understand that everyone feels comfortable running at their own pace.
What happens if I don't finish the race?
We hope that together we can prepare for the challenge of the Boston Marathon and that you have a fulfilling experience on our team and during the race. However, it is all right if you are unable to finish the race.
What if one of my supporters wants more information about the Museum of Science Traveling Programs?
We are always happy to tell people about the great resources the Museum of Science offers. If someone wants to learn more about our organization and how to get involved, please let Joe Piedrafite know so he can give your supporter more information: 617-589-0379.
My friend is already qualified for the marathon. Can he / she join the team?
Yes! Any qualified runner (someone who has secured their own 2011 entry from the B.A.A.) is very welcome on our team. We ask qualified runners to raise at least $1,000, and we hope that any qualified runners are as motivated to support the Museum of Science as you are.
How do I get more information about the Boston Marathon?
For more information about the marathon, visit the Boston Athletic Association website.