Entry fees
*If you register on or after 3/22/24 we cannot guarantee you will get a medal. They must be special ordered early to include everyone's name on the finisher's ribbon. Also, once we have reached capacity for a distance, your name will not appear on the finisher's ribbon.
Half marathon (10 Loops)
Through 8/31 - $51
9/1 - 12/31 - $61
1/1 - 3/22 - $66
3/23 - 4/19 - $71*
4/20 - 4/26 - $76*
Marathon (20 Loops)
Through 8/31 - $66
9/1 - 12/31 - $76
1/1 - 3/22 - $81
3/23 - 4/19 - $86*
4/20 - 4/26 - $91*
50k Ultra (24 Loops)
Through 8/31 - $76
9/1 - 12/31 - $86
1/1 - 3/22 - $91
3/23 - 4/19 - $96*
4/20 - 4/26 - $101*
Virtual Half, Full or 50K
Through 04/27/24 - $35
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my family member/friend volunteer?
Of course! Volunteers will receive their choice of a race beanie or a pint glass. Volunteer sign up can be found at: runsignup.com/Race/Volunteer/CO/Brighton/RunsWithScissors
May I have my pet accompany me?
Sorry, but due to safety concerns for your pet and our runners, pets are discouraged on the course (although admittedly we can't stop you since it's an open course and others may be walking their dogs on the trail).
May I push my child in a stroller?
Sorry, but the trail is not very conducive to strollers. Although we love children, this is not the best race for strollers.
How about headphones, ear-buds, etc.?
We would prefer you not wear headphones or ear-buds. It is just too dangerous. If you can't hear other runners, you are a danger to them and yourself. I have seen many runner's cut off by people wearing ear-buds, who apparently could not hear them coming up from behind. This is especially true on a loop course. Unless you are the fastest runner out there, you will probably have someone coming up from behind you at some point. Besides, be social and talk to your fellow runners. If you do decide to wear them and other runners complain about being cut-off by you, you will be asked to remove them or risk being pulled from the race.
What about PED's (performance enhancing drugs)?
Unlike the NFL (No Fun League), we encourage you to take every advantage you can to get a good finish time (short of cutting the course). Hey, we may decide to require PED's at some point. I'll send a personal invitation to Lance if that happens. ;)
What if I arrive late? Can I still participate?
You may start late, however, only those who start within 5 minutes of the mass start will be eligible for awards (Top 3 Male & Female in each race).
Is there a time limit?
Yes. Unfortunately, we can't be there forever, so we set a cut-off of 4:00 p.m. for all 3 races. Hopefully that will give everyone enough time. If it looks like you are going to take longer than that, we will certainly try to accommodate you. We realize that things like the weather can slow things in a race (but don't worry, it's going to be great weather). If you consistently take over 9 hours, let us know and we can try to figure something out. If it takes you over 24 hours, you may want to take up fishing instead.
Do I have to count my own laps? I don't know if I can keep track of that many laps after runner's delirium sets in.
No need to worry. Since the races are chip timed, our wonderful timers will be keeping track of your laps. But if you truly want the practice, you're welcome to count your laps as well as the laps of others around you. By the way, our timers provide bibs with chips already attached, so you don’t need to return them.
Is there a cap on the number of runners?
Yes. In order to minimize congestion on the course and so we can try to get to know you by name, we are capping the number of runners in each event (Half-Marathon, Marathon, & 50K). The reason for this is that since the finisher's ribbons for each race will have the names of all of the runners from that specific race on them, if we have too many in any one event we would need to supply a magnifying glass to see your name.
What if I need to cancel? Can I get a refund?
We're sorry, but we cannot offer any refunds; however you may transfer your entry to another runner at no cost (but why would you want to?). Any transfer must be completed by the close of registration. Please send an email to [email protected] to make those arrangements, so that we can get our records updated. Be aware that if we have already reached our cap or if it a month or less from race day, the order for the ribbons will likely have been placed and the individual to whom you are transferring your entry will not have their name on the ribbon (unless you transfer your entry to someone who has the same name as you). We can do a one-time carryover to the next year as long as that is arranged for by the close of registration. You may also change your registration to the virtual race and still get a beanie and medal.
Can I change races?
Race changes can be made up to the close of registration. There is no fee to change races; however, if you are switching to a longer race, you will need to pay the difference. Please contact [email protected] and we will discuss the process. Race day changes are limited and based on late cancellations and race day no shows. These considerations are based on the fact that we order the exact number of medals and ribbons that are needed on race day in order to keep costs and the entry fees down. Also, you should be aware that if you change races after the ribbon order is placed, your name will appear only on the ribbon for the race that you originally entered.
When you say "close of registration" do you mean when you reach the cap or the last scheduled day of registration?
It's probably closer to when we reach our cap. The reason is, shortly after we reach the cap, medals/ribbons are ordered in the exact number needed for the individual events.
Can I start early?
You're certainly welcome to start early - we just won't start counting your laps until the official start time.
Is this a certified course (Boston Qualifier)?
Ha! You gotta be kidding me. The only that this course qualifies you for is fatigue and black toenails.
When is packet pick-up?
Packet pick-up will be at Something Brewery, 117 N. Main St., Brighton, CO (outside on the back patio if the weather is nice, in the back room if it's not) from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm the night before the race.
Can I pick up my packet on race morning?
Certainly. But be aware that race day packet pick up may only include the bib and pint glass, and not the swag bag. Any leftover swag bags from packet pickup will be given on a first-come first-served basis. Race day pickup begins at 6:15 a.m.
What about swag and a medal?
Runners love stuff, so I'm working to get lots of swag (we usually have tons of stuff - not literally, obviously). A race specific wicking beanie as well as a custom "scissors shaped" medal will be given to all finishers with the runners' names on the ribbon (a medal is only guaranteed if you register before 3/22/24). A custom 16 oz. pub-style glass will be given to all registered participants. A random drawing for bonus swag will be held on race day. Check for your bib number at the prize table when you finish.
There will be special awards for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place male and female finisher for each distance, based on chip time.
Any other free stuff?
Sure. I promise that all of the air on the course is free. We won't charge you a dime for it. Just be sure to bring your spare dollars for stuff at the aid station. (just kidding)
Speaking of aid stations, what liquids and foods will be at the race?
We will be providing Gatorade, water, and food (cookies, pretzels, trail mix and stuff like that). There will be gluten free options as well. In order to minimize litter, please consider bringing a bottle to carry that can be refilled at the aid station. Also, do you have GU, PowerGel, PowerBars, or other similar items stashed away in the back of a drawer that you will probably never use because you decided you don't like the flavor (or whatever other reason)? Please consider bringing them to share with others. Remember, we're all in this together.
Is there a place where I can drop stuff near the Start/Finish/Aid Station?
Absolutely! That's one of the beauties of a loop race! There is plenty of space to leave items. The only thing we ask is that you ensure that you don't miss the timing mat OR cross it twice. I'd suggest leaving items well ahead of, or well after the timing mat.
Where do I park?
How about less than 150 yards from the finish line. Is that close enough for you? Too close? You can park farther away if you think you will need the exercise. Don't worry, there is ample convenient parking. You shouldn't have to walk an extra mile after running your race! (Unless you REALLY want to - but that's up to you.) There is a large parking lot just west of the race, on the other side of the road that you drive in on.
Much of the course is on a scree covered trail, should I wear gators to keep pebbles out of my shoes?
If you're the type of person that, if there is only one rock on the road, it will end up in your shoe it's not a bad idea. The pebbles you should be most concerned with are the Cocoa (or Fruity) Pebbles. When they get in your shoes, it can be a real mess.
How about trail shoes and gators?
I run this trail often and never wear trail shoes, so I would say that you won't need them. Gators are another matter. There have been times when I ran 6 or 7 laps without getting pebbles in my shoes, neither Fruity nor Cocoa Pebbles. And there have been occasions where I would get pebbles in on the first lap.
What is the virtual option?
You may run or walk wherever you want; however no mechanical means of transportation (bicycle, scooter, roller blades, etc.) are permitted. You must complete the event on or before race day, but no more than one week prior. Upon completion of your event, you must submit your finish in Run Signup no later than Midnight (Mountain Time) on the Wednesday immediately following race day.
Participants who complete a virtual event and submit their finish times by the Wednesday immediately following race day will receive a scissors shaped finisher's medal and wicking beanie by mail. You will not be eligible for place awards.
Can I be a vendor at the race?
If you are interested in being a vendor, please send an email to [email protected] with a description of your business and whether or not you intend to sell anything on site. The vendor fee is $55.
What's this whole "Runs With Scissors" thing, anyway?
Besides being a somewhat catchy name, race founder Bill Morton figured that a lot of us runners were misbehaving children and our Report Cards reflected that fact. Here's a poem that he wrote that explains it.
He Runs With Scissors
When I was a little kid, I colored outside the lines.
My teacher didn't like it, she didn't think that it was fine.
She knew I'd come to no good, she said that I was bad.
So when they met the first time she told my mom and dad,
“He runs with scissors, he eats paste and chalk,
And when I try to teach the class, all he does is talk, talk, talk,
He plays with his food, but doesn't play well with others,
And if you're not careful he might grow up to be a long distance runner.”
As I grew it just got worse, I picked fights almost weekly,
I drove too fast and drank too much, I didn't live my life meekly.
I stayed out late, I ran around, and made trouble with my brother.
It's no big shock, there was a talk between my teacher, dad, and mother,
“He runs with scissors, he eats paste and chalk,
And when I try to teach the class, all he does is talk and talk,
He plays with his food, but doesn't play well with others,
And if you're not careful he might grow up to be a long distance runner.”
I run with scissors, I write bad checks,
And when I do things I don't consider what might just happen next,
I love a food fight and skinny dipping in summer,
And teacher was right, I grew up to be a long distance runner.
*If you register on or after 3/22/24 we cannot guarantee you will get a medal. They must be special ordered early to include everyone's name on the finisher's ribbon. Also, once we have reached capacity for a distance, your name will not appear on the finisher's ribbon.
Half marathon (10 Loops)
Through 8/31 - $51
9/1 - 12/31 - $61
1/1 - 3/22 - $66
3/23 - 4/19 - $71*
4/20 - 4/26 - $76*
Marathon (20 Loops)
Through 8/31 - $66
9/1 - 12/31 - $76
1/1 - 3/22 - $81
3/23 - 4/19 - $86*
4/20 - 4/26 - $91*
50k Ultra (24 Loops)
Through 8/31 - $76
9/1 - 12/31 - $86
1/1 - 3/22 - $91
3/23 - 4/19 - $96*
4/20 - 4/26 - $101*
Virtual Half, Full or 50K
Through 04/27/24 - $35
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my family member/friend volunteer?
Of course! Volunteers will receive their choice of a race beanie or a pint glass. Volunteer sign up can be found at: runsignup.com/Race/Volunteer/CO/Brighton/RunsWithScissors
May I have my pet accompany me?
Sorry, but due to safety concerns for your pet and our runners, pets are discouraged on the course (although admittedly we can't stop you since it's an open course and others may be walking their dogs on the trail).
May I push my child in a stroller?
Sorry, but the trail is not very conducive to strollers. Although we love children, this is not the best race for strollers.
How about headphones, ear-buds, etc.?
We would prefer you not wear headphones or ear-buds. It is just too dangerous. If you can't hear other runners, you are a danger to them and yourself. I have seen many runner's cut off by people wearing ear-buds, who apparently could not hear them coming up from behind. This is especially true on a loop course. Unless you are the fastest runner out there, you will probably have someone coming up from behind you at some point. Besides, be social and talk to your fellow runners. If you do decide to wear them and other runners complain about being cut-off by you, you will be asked to remove them or risk being pulled from the race.
What about PED's (performance enhancing drugs)?
Unlike the NFL (No Fun League), we encourage you to take every advantage you can to get a good finish time (short of cutting the course). Hey, we may decide to require PED's at some point. I'll send a personal invitation to Lance if that happens. ;)
What if I arrive late? Can I still participate?
You may start late, however, only those who start within 5 minutes of the mass start will be eligible for awards (Top 3 Male & Female in each race).
Is there a time limit?
Yes. Unfortunately, we can't be there forever, so we set a cut-off of 4:00 p.m. for all 3 races. Hopefully that will give everyone enough time. If it looks like you are going to take longer than that, we will certainly try to accommodate you. We realize that things like the weather can slow things in a race (but don't worry, it's going to be great weather). If you consistently take over 9 hours, let us know and we can try to figure something out. If it takes you over 24 hours, you may want to take up fishing instead.
Do I have to count my own laps? I don't know if I can keep track of that many laps after runner's delirium sets in.
No need to worry. Since the races are chip timed, our wonderful timers will be keeping track of your laps. But if you truly want the practice, you're welcome to count your laps as well as the laps of others around you. By the way, our timers provide bibs with chips already attached, so you don’t need to return them.
Is there a cap on the number of runners?
Yes. In order to minimize congestion on the course and so we can try to get to know you by name, we are capping the number of runners in each event (Half-Marathon, Marathon, & 50K). The reason for this is that since the finisher's ribbons for each race will have the names of all of the runners from that specific race on them, if we have too many in any one event we would need to supply a magnifying glass to see your name.
What if I need to cancel? Can I get a refund?
We're sorry, but we cannot offer any refunds; however you may transfer your entry to another runner at no cost (but why would you want to?). Any transfer must be completed by the close of registration. Please send an email to [email protected] to make those arrangements, so that we can get our records updated. Be aware that if we have already reached our cap or if it a month or less from race day, the order for the ribbons will likely have been placed and the individual to whom you are transferring your entry will not have their name on the ribbon (unless you transfer your entry to someone who has the same name as you). We can do a one-time carryover to the next year as long as that is arranged for by the close of registration. You may also change your registration to the virtual race and still get a beanie and medal.
Can I change races?
Race changes can be made up to the close of registration. There is no fee to change races; however, if you are switching to a longer race, you will need to pay the difference. Please contact [email protected] and we will discuss the process. Race day changes are limited and based on late cancellations and race day no shows. These considerations are based on the fact that we order the exact number of medals and ribbons that are needed on race day in order to keep costs and the entry fees down. Also, you should be aware that if you change races after the ribbon order is placed, your name will appear only on the ribbon for the race that you originally entered.
When you say "close of registration" do you mean when you reach the cap or the last scheduled day of registration?
It's probably closer to when we reach our cap. The reason is, shortly after we reach the cap, medals/ribbons are ordered in the exact number needed for the individual events.
Can I start early?
You're certainly welcome to start early - we just won't start counting your laps until the official start time.
Is this a certified course (Boston Qualifier)?
Ha! You gotta be kidding me. The only that this course qualifies you for is fatigue and black toenails.
When is packet pick-up?
Packet pick-up will be at Something Brewery, 117 N. Main St., Brighton, CO (outside on the back patio if the weather is nice, in the back room if it's not) from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm the night before the race.
Can I pick up my packet on race morning?
Certainly. But be aware that race day packet pick up may only include the bib and pint glass, and not the swag bag. Any leftover swag bags from packet pickup will be given on a first-come first-served basis. Race day pickup begins at 6:15 a.m.
What about swag and a medal?
Runners love stuff, so I'm working to get lots of swag (we usually have tons of stuff - not literally, obviously). A race specific wicking beanie as well as a custom "scissors shaped" medal will be given to all finishers with the runners' names on the ribbon (a medal is only guaranteed if you register before 3/22/24). A custom 16 oz. pub-style glass will be given to all registered participants. A random drawing for bonus swag will be held on race day. Check for your bib number at the prize table when you finish.
There will be special awards for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place male and female finisher for each distance, based on chip time.
Any other free stuff?
Sure. I promise that all of the air on the course is free. We won't charge you a dime for it. Just be sure to bring your spare dollars for stuff at the aid station. (just kidding)
Speaking of aid stations, what liquids and foods will be at the race?
We will be providing Gatorade, water, and food (cookies, pretzels, trail mix and stuff like that). There will be gluten free options as well. In order to minimize litter, please consider bringing a bottle to carry that can be refilled at the aid station. Also, do you have GU, PowerGel, PowerBars, or other similar items stashed away in the back of a drawer that you will probably never use because you decided you don't like the flavor (or whatever other reason)? Please consider bringing them to share with others. Remember, we're all in this together.
Is there a place where I can drop stuff near the Start/Finish/Aid Station?
Absolutely! That's one of the beauties of a loop race! There is plenty of space to leave items. The only thing we ask is that you ensure that you don't miss the timing mat OR cross it twice. I'd suggest leaving items well ahead of, or well after the timing mat.
Where do I park?
How about less than 150 yards from the finish line. Is that close enough for you? Too close? You can park farther away if you think you will need the exercise. Don't worry, there is ample convenient parking. You shouldn't have to walk an extra mile after running your race! (Unless you REALLY want to - but that's up to you.) There is a large parking lot just west of the race, on the other side of the road that you drive in on.
Much of the course is on a scree covered trail, should I wear gators to keep pebbles out of my shoes?
If you're the type of person that, if there is only one rock on the road, it will end up in your shoe it's not a bad idea. The pebbles you should be most concerned with are the Cocoa (or Fruity) Pebbles. When they get in your shoes, it can be a real mess.
How about trail shoes and gators?
I run this trail often and never wear trail shoes, so I would say that you won't need them. Gators are another matter. There have been times when I ran 6 or 7 laps without getting pebbles in my shoes, neither Fruity nor Cocoa Pebbles. And there have been occasions where I would get pebbles in on the first lap.
What is the virtual option?
You may run or walk wherever you want; however no mechanical means of transportation (bicycle, scooter, roller blades, etc.) are permitted. You must complete the event on or before race day, but no more than one week prior. Upon completion of your event, you must submit your finish in Run Signup no later than Midnight (Mountain Time) on the Wednesday immediately following race day.
Participants who complete a virtual event and submit their finish times by the Wednesday immediately following race day will receive a scissors shaped finisher's medal and wicking beanie by mail. You will not be eligible for place awards.
Can I be a vendor at the race?
If you are interested in being a vendor, please send an email to [email protected] with a description of your business and whether or not you intend to sell anything on site. The vendor fee is $55.
What's this whole "Runs With Scissors" thing, anyway?
Besides being a somewhat catchy name, race founder Bill Morton figured that a lot of us runners were misbehaving children and our Report Cards reflected that fact. Here's a poem that he wrote that explains it.
He Runs With Scissors
When I was a little kid, I colored outside the lines.
My teacher didn't like it, she didn't think that it was fine.
She knew I'd come to no good, she said that I was bad.
So when they met the first time she told my mom and dad,
“He runs with scissors, he eats paste and chalk,
And when I try to teach the class, all he does is talk, talk, talk,
He plays with his food, but doesn't play well with others,
And if you're not careful he might grow up to be a long distance runner.”
As I grew it just got worse, I picked fights almost weekly,
I drove too fast and drank too much, I didn't live my life meekly.
I stayed out late, I ran around, and made trouble with my brother.
It's no big shock, there was a talk between my teacher, dad, and mother,
“He runs with scissors, he eats paste and chalk,
And when I try to teach the class, all he does is talk and talk,
He plays with his food, but doesn't play well with others,
And if you're not careful he might grow up to be a long distance runner.”
I run with scissors, I write bad checks,
And when I do things I don't consider what might just happen next,
I love a food fight and skinny dipping in summer,
And teacher was right, I grew up to be a long distance runner.