First and foremost, the GRT races are intended to provide an enjoyable event that will provide a challenging introduction to trail running and ultramarathoning for the novice, while giving the more experienced runner a good test of their early-season fitness as they prepare for that summer or fall 100-miler.  That said, like any event involving human nature, not to mention human interaction with nature, a few rules are inevitable to keep things running smoothly.  Also, the PA DCNR, Moraine State Park, and Jennings Environmental Education Center have graciously allowed us to use the GRT and associated trail systems for this event, and we want to improve the odds of the event surviving into the future.  So, without further ado, here they are.

1:  Littering by runners, spectators, and crew is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated.  At aid stations, use trash receptacles.  Out on the course, stow trash until you reach the next aid station and dispose of it properly.  Personnel conducting the course sweep should not find so much as the tab from a gel pack.

2:  Alcohol is prohibited in Moraine State Park and the Jennings Center.

3:  If you have to relieve yourself, do so well off the trail.  Solid waste is to be buried.

4:  It is prohibited to leave the trail within the Jennings Environmental Education Center.  Numerous sensitive flora and fauna are present within the Jennings Center, including an endangered species of rattlesnake.  There is a restroom just before reaching the Jennings aid station at mile 15.2, just over a mile from where you enter the Jennings Center and about 2 miles from where you exit.  Plan accordingly.

5:  Be polite to all volunteers, park staff, and anyone you encounter during the event.  Many, many people have worked to make this event possible.  Treat them with the great deal of respect and appreciation they deserve.  We want to be invited back for years to come.

6:  All runners must check in on Saturday morning, no later than 15 minutes before the scheduled start of their race.  After that time, you will be assigned DNS (Did Not Start)  status.

7:  Your bib number must be visible from the front at all times.

8:  Cutoff times are not negotiable.  Where specified, cutoff times will be enforced by the aid station captain.  Their determination is final.  Do not attempt to negotiate this.

9:  Runners may not accept any outside assistance, other than at designated aid stations.  Runners leaving the course for any reason must re-enter the course under their own power at the point where they left.

10:  It is the responsibility of all runners in all races to check in and out of all manned aid stations.

11:  Runners who choose to abandon the race may do so only at a designated aid station and must notify the aid station captain that they are dropping.  Although it will not be a priority for aid station staff, we will do our best to arrange transportation back to the start/finish area, if needed.

12:  Drop bags are permitted for 50 Mile participants only and only at the Rt. 528 aid station.  You will pass through this point three times during the race.

13:  Pacers are permitted for 50 Mile participants only, starting at the Swamp Run aid station inbound (approx. mile 32)  .

14:  Crews are permitted for 50K and 50 Mile participants only, and only at the Rt. 528, Jennings, and Swamp Run aid stations.  Crews may only provide aid to their runner within 100 yards of an aid station.

15:  Much of the course is true single-track.  When other runners are encountered, the “in-bound” runner shall have the right-of-way in all cases.  When approached from behind, slower runners shall yield to faster runners when prompted.  The trail will be open to the general public.  Although it is not likely during early April, if other trail users are encountered, please be polite.

16:  Obey race volunteers monitoring traffic and parking.  Obey all posted speed limits.

17:  Runners are responsible for the actions of their spectators/crew.

18:  Park rules require that all dogs be leashed and under control; have all current licenses and tags; and that owners clean up after them.  Race rules prohibit dogs from being within aid station tents or pavilions or the start/finish pavilion.