NM Chips and Salsa Half Marathon

Register today for the 20th Annual Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, New Mexico Chips and Salsa Half Marathon + 10K, 5K, and Kids K and Virtual Run. This annual event is gearing up to be one you won’t want to miss! Join hundreds of participants on this "New" fast and flat loop course through the scenic North Valley and Los Ranchos de Albuquerque. There is no better time to visit Albuquerque! State Fair, Old Town Salsa Fiesta, hot air balloons, and the smell of fresh chile in the air. The NM Chips and Salsa Half Marathon offers age group and overall awards, including custom finisher medals for all half marathon finishers and great shirts for all participants! To register and learn more about the NM Chips and Salsa Half Marathon, go to www.irunfit.org.  So, lace up those running shoes and join us on Sunday, September 8, 2024, for the NM Chips and Salsa Half Marathon.

NM CHIPS AND SALSA HALF MARATHON
EVENT INFORMATION

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Note: Please continue to check our RunFit website: www.irunfit.org for the most current event information.

 
AGRI-NATURE CENTER
4920 Rio Grande Blvd. NW
Albuquerque, NM 87107

IMPORTANT: PLEASE SEE “PARKING” BELOW. ONLY HALF MARATHON PARTICIPANTS ONLY ALLOWED TO PARK AT AGRI NATURE CENTER.

EVENT LOCATION:
AGRI-NATURE CENTER
4920 Rio Grande Blvd. NW
Albuquerque, NM 87107

IMPORTANT: PLEASE SEE “PARKING” BELOW. ONLY HALF MARATHON PARTICIPANTS ONLY ALLOWED TO PARK AT AGRI NATURE CENTER.

EVENT SCHEDULE:

September 8, 2024
Half Marathon: 7:00 a.m. (3.5 Hour Cut-off)
10K: 7:30 a.m.
5K: 7:45 a.m.
Kids K: 9:00 a.m.

NOTE: ALL PARTICIPANTS SHOULD ARRIVE BEFORE 6:30 A.M. TO PARK AND BE AT THE START ON TIME.

RUNNER PACKET-PICKUP AND LATE REGISTRATION:
September 7, 2024
11:00-4:00 P.M.
FLEET FEET SPORTS
North Towne Plaza
5901 Wyoming suite R
Albuquerque NM 87109

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PLEASE NOTE: THERE IS RACE-DAY REGISTRATION; HOWEVER, ALL PRE-REGISTERED PARTICIPANTS MUST PICK UP THEIR EVENT PACKETS AT “PACKET PICK-UP.”

If you cannot pick up your packets in person, you must decide for a representative to pick up your packet. Note: Any out-of-town participants may pick up their packet on race morning at the registration area located at the Agri Nature Center (start/finish) 6:00 – 6:30 a.m.

PLEASE CONTINUE TO VIEW UPDATES TO OUR “PARTICIPANT INFORMATION” LOCATED ON OUR RUNFIT WEBSITE: WWW.IRUNFIT.ORG IN ORDER TO STAY INFORMED ABOUT SOCIAL DISTANCING AND OTHER RACE DAY INFORMATION. IF OUR EVENT IS NOT ABLE TO GO LIVE DUE TO COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS, ALL PARTICIPANTS WILL GO VIRTUAL. SORRY, NO REFUNDS.

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Virtual Run/Walk:

PLEASE NOTE: All registered participants may pick up their event packet: Event Bib and T-Shirt at the time and location listed above, “Packet Pickup.” For those who purchased the “shipping” (only available to Virtual Run/Walk participants) your race swag will be mailed out beginning September 5, 2022, and continue as registrations come in.

For additional event information, please go to our RunFit website: www.irunfit.org.

If you choose to have, your packet mailed to you. Please ensure you enter your mailing address when registering for the event and add the additional charge for shipping.

Please note: If you would like your packet mailed to you, please add “SHIPPING” before completing your registration. All other packets will be available for Packet Pickup.​

Follow these 3 easy steps to run/walk your Half Marathon, 10K, or 5K!

Note: Kids K is a non-timed event.

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* Step 1:

Walk or run ANYTIME between September 7-14, 2024, and record your race time using: Strava, Garmin, MapMyRun, MapPedometer.com or a simple stopwatch.

* Step 2:

Email your race completion time to [email protected]

* Include first and last name, run date, event (Half, 10K, or 5K), city and state, and race completion time in the body of the email. Note: Subject line: NM Chips and Salsa Half Marathon, 10K, 5K Virtual Run Result Information

* Run/walk times must be submitted by 11:59 pm (mtn.) on September 15, 2024.

* Step 3:

Submit a selfie on the RunFit Facebook:

* Post on https://www.facebook.com/Runfitabq/

* Submit a selfie after your run/walk or a pic of the location you ran/walked!

* In providing a photo or selfie, you allow RunFit to share your pic on the RunFit website and other event social media. (The pic you provide will not be used for sales or marketing purposes without written permission.)

Please note Steps 2 and 3 are optional.

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START:

The Start is within a short distance from the finish. PLEASE REVIEW THE COURSE BEFORE THE EVENT. SEE COURSE LINKS BELOW AS WELL AS THE POSTED COURSE MAP AT: www.irunfit.org.

Race Day Registration will be located at the Agri-Nature Center. All participants who would like their finish time and be eligible for age group and overall awards MUST wear a timing chip. The chip must be worn on the shoe using the zip ties provided.

PARKING:

PLEASE USE DESIGNATED PARKING AREAS/SPACES ONLY. DO NOT PARK ON ANY OF THE INTERIOR ROADS ALONG THE COURSE.

START INFORMATION:

The start location for the 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon running events is the Agri Nature Center, just west of Los Poblanos Field Open Space. All races will start promptly at the designated times. Allow plenty of time to get to the Start Line to seed yourself according to your projected pace time. If you are driving to the race, plan to arrive early.

The Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K events are with a GUN START AND CHIP FINISH (The official time will start when the gun goes off). All participants who want to be timed and factored into the results MUST wear a timing chip/bib (see “RESULTS” information below).

PARKING:

HALF MARATHON (only): Agri Nature Center: 4920 Rio Grande Blvd. NW or Los Poblanos Fields (see below).

10K: Los Poblanos Open Space: 5601 Tierra Viva Pl. NW

Note: Start is located west of Los Poblanos Fields. Please use caution due to runners (Half Marathon) on the course.

5K and KIDS K: Alvarado Elementary School: 1100 Solar Rd. NW

Note Start is located west of Los Poblanos Fields. From Alvarado Elementary School, head south along the ditch/canal just west of the school. Cross the pedestrian bridge and head south. Please stay on the west side of the ditch due to runners on the course.

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LODGING:

There are several fine hotels in and around Albuquerque. To find the closest to the event but within a short driving distance to the start, look for lodging areas near I-25 and Montgomery Blvd.

 

RUNNER GEAR BAG:

Half Marathon participants may check gear near the Start Line (Registration Site). Volunteers will assist runners in identifying their gear bags. Runners can claim their gear after the race near the finish. Show your bib number to the volunteers at the gear pickup location to claim your bag. Allow plenty of time to get to the Start Line to check any gear and position yourself according to your projected pace time. Please note: See “Parking” above.

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​RACE/BIB REQUIREMENTS:

Each participant will receive a Race (Bib) number that must be worn on race day. DO NOT alter your race number in any way. Your bib number must be visible and worn on the front outside of all clothing during the entire race so that it may be clearly seen. Bib numbers are non-transferable and MUST be worn by the runner to whom it is assigned.

 

 

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I run with iPod/headphones?

Yes. USATF, the national governing body of the sport, recently amended its ban on headphones, iPods, and similar devices. However, athletes competing for prize money cannot use electronic devices such as headphones and earpieces.

Can I run with my GPS device?

Yes, participants may wear their GPS watches/devices. However, these items do not count as “second timing devices" and will not be recognized by the event as official times or distances.

 

What is NOT allowed on the course?

The use of video devices, cell phones, computers, cameras, or other devices by participants in the event is prohibited. The use of wheeled devices by participants or any other person authorized to be on the course shall be strictly limited to: (a) authorized and registered competitive wheelchair participants and (b) authorized course marshals on bicycles. Baby joggers, baby strollers, skateboards, rollerblades, unauthorized bicycles, or any other wheeled device will not be permitted.

 

Strollers and baby joggers are permitted on the 5K course only. Strollers and baby joggers must start at the back of the pack, and your child must always be secured in the stroller.

Do you have a Lost & Found in case I lose something at the Event or on the racecourse?

Yes. We will have a Lost & Found for lost and found items on race day. If you are missing a personal item, please call 505.217.4774.

I am injured and/or cannot run the event (family commitment, work obligation, etc.). Can I get a refund, donate my entry, or transfer my entry to someone else?

No. Sale and/or transfer of race entry/bib are strictly prohibited and will result in disqualifying and/or banning any individuals involved from future events. All entry fees are non-refundable and cannot be deferred toward a future event.
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If I provide medical documentation of my injury or pregnancy, will you give me a refund?

No. Please refer to our official event rules and guidelines.

Can I defer my entry to the next year if I cannot run this year?

No, participants cannot defer their entries to the next year if they cannot run.

 

Can a friend pick up my packet for me if I cannot attend Packet Pickup?

Yes. Your friend can pick up your packet for you.

INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY:

Weather forecasts will be monitored before the event paying special attention to the possibility of heavy rain, thunder and lightning, high winds, and extreme temperatures. If necessary, athletes will be made aware of these predictions on the RunFit website: www.irunfit.org so that participants can properly prepare for severe weather during the race and possible course alterations. Severe weather updates will also be sent to participants via email as necessary.

The Race Director will monitor the weather and decide if any action will be taken to modify the race. Possible changes include altering the start time for the race or in extreme situations, cancellation of the event. Please listen closely to all public address announcements at the race's starting line. Visible lightning will cause the race to be postponed for a minimum of 15 minutes. Additional sightings will continue to delay the race in 15-minute increments. If extreme heat is predicted, the athletes will be provided extra water before, during, and after the event. The medical team will be alerted that athletes may require additional medical attention during and after the event due to the high temperatures.

 
MEDICAL SUPPORT:

Medical staff members will be ready to assist you at any time. Radio communications personnel will be positioned at every aid station along the course.

The event officials have the right to withdraw any runner from the race that appears distressed or at risk. You will be directed to the Medical Area if you have a health or medical problem at the Finish Line. Please cooperate if you are asked to go for a checkup. Only runners requiring medical assistance will be permitted in the Medical Area. If you feel that you need help at any point, please ask for it!

If you cannot finish the race for any reason, please notify a race official of your bib number so that medical personnel is aware.

 
FINISH INFORMATION:

Once you cross the finish line, you will be greeted by volunteers. Chips and Salsa Half Marathon Finisher Medal (1/2 Marathon Participants Only) will be presented to all half marathon finishers immediately as you cross the finish. Then it's on to the Recovery Area. Access to Recovery Area is limited to runners only.
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HALF MARATHON AWARDS AND PRIZES:

The overall and division award winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony on race day at 9:30 a.m. – immediately following the Kids K. Overall awards to the top 3 men and women will be determined by gun time: 19 and under, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80+.

Please note: Awards/Medals must be picked up on race day. Age group awards may be picked up at the awards table near the finish. Awards and Medals will not be mailed. 

10K:

The overall and division award winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony on race day at 9:30 a.m. – immediately following the Kids K. Overall awards to the top 3 men and women will be determined by gun time: 19 and under, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80+.

Please note: Awards/Medals must be picked up on race day. Age group awards may be picked up at the awards table near the finish. Awards and Medals will not be mailed. 

 

5K:

The overall and division award winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony on race day at 9:30 a.m. – immediately following the Kids K. Overall prizes will be awarded to the top three men and women determined by gun time.

Age group prizes will be given to the top three finishers in the following categories for men and women: 8 and under, 9-12, 13-15, 16-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80+. Award times will be determined by gun time.

Please note Awards/Medals must be picked up on race day. Age group awards may be picked up at the awards table near the finish. Awards and Medals will not be mailed. 

RUNFIT KIDS K:

All registered participants (11 and under) are eligible to participate in the RunFit Kids K. The RunFit Kids K will start at 9:15, just east of the finish near Half Marathon Start. All participants will receive a special recognition award at the finish.

 

RUNFIT 13.1 x 2 MARATHON CHALLENGE:

RUNFIT is proud to announce the return of the 13.1 X 2 RUNFIT MARATHON. This popular RunFit edition allows participants to participate in two events: NM Chips and Salsa Half Marathon (September 8, 2024) and the Albuquerque Half Marathon (April 6, 2024), and by doing so, receive a custom 13.1 X 2 RunFit Marathon finisher medal at the finish of the Albuquerque Half Marathon.

Post-Race: awards, refreshments, and entertainment.

REVIEW THE COURSE AND SUPPORT:

See course map(s) below. Decide where your family and friends can cheer you on when you most need the support.

Seven fluid and replacement fluid stations are supplied by water and Powerade approximately every 2 miles throughout the Half Marathon course. Restroom facilities will be located near the start area and the finish area, as well as Miles 6 along the Half Marathon course. Medical and first aid personnel will be stationed at the finish and at various points along the course.

Water and Powerade will also be provided for the 5K (water only) 10K

Fuel Stations will be located approximately every 2 miles:

COURSE MAP LINKS (MAP MY RUN)

Note: Cut and paste the hyperlink in the browser.

Half Marathon:  

https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/4549047697/

10K:  

https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/4549094329/

5K:  

https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/4549112842/

 

EVENT RESULTS:

Official results will be posted immediately after the completion of each event. You will also find results posted at the event approximately every 15 minutes near the finish and on the RunFit website: www.irunfit.org, after the event. Medals that are not picked up on race day will not be mailed. 

Proceeds:

A portion of the event proceeds benefits RunFit, a nonprofit, 501 (c) 3 organization benefiting children before, during, and after school running programs.
 

HISTORY OF RUNFIT:

RunFit before and after school running program launched in the spring of 2006 as a bold joint initiative aimed at curbing the growing epidemic of childhood obesity by creating a running program for children at after-school (or before school) programs across New Mexico.

RunFit is designed to help the youth of all sizes, fitness, and ability levels utilize the discipline of running to improve health, build character and uplift the spirit. After-school programs such as RunFit play a vital role in the lives of our communities by keeping kids’ safe, creating healthy habits, and helping working families.

RunFit is a fun, free, and intensive program that motivates and trains elementary school students to run one mile to 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) without stopping through active participation on an after-school (or before school) running team. Participants learn to set and achieve challenging personal goals and are awarded with incentives for attendance and improvement and culminating in local running events.

 
VOLUNTEER INFORMATION:

Over 75 volunteers are needed to make the Half Marathon run smoothly. Volunteers are still needed to help! Please contact RunFit at (505) 217-4774 to volunteer for race day or email: [email protected].

The Chips and Salsa Half Marathon is fortunate to have some of the friendliest and hardest-working volunteers around. More than 75 volunteers help us on race morning to ensure you feel welcomed, are fully informed, have a safe, successful, and positive running experience, and more! When you have a chance, give a hearty…. fun-loving thanks!

RACE QUESTIONS AND INFORMATION:

RunFit: Chips and Salsa Half Marathon Headquarters
12104 Palm Springs Ave. NE
Albuquerque, NM 87111
(505) 217-4774

Email: [email protected]