Adaptive Athletes

We’re so excited to welcome adaptive athletes to our race! This guide covers everything you need to know – from registration and divisions to equipment and race day logistics. Questions? Reach out to us at info@beyondmonumental.org.

Eligibility & Registration

  • Register for the race distance you plan to complete (Half Marathon, Marathon, 5K).
  • During registration, indicate your adaptive division (e.g., Pushrim Wheelchair, Handcycle, Duo Team, Ambulatory Adaptive).
  • Guide runners and Duo Team pushers must also register

Adaptive Divisions

We offer the following adaptive divisions, all as Exhibition divisions. Medals are awarded to finishers in each division.

Push-Rim Wheelchair Division

For athletes who self-propel using a racing wheelchair. Day chairs may be used only if fitted with an approved attachment (e.g., FreeWheel).

Requirements

  • Racing wheelchair required (or day chair with approved attachment)
  • Helmet required at all times
  • Self-propelled only — no motors, pedals, or gears
  • Prior performance at half marathon distance or longer required to demonstrate safety and readiness
  • Start time: 5-minute advanced start (7:55 AM)
  • Time limit & age requirement: Same as the general field

Handcycle Division

For athletes who use an arm-powered handcycle. Athletes must have a permanent physical impairment that affects their ability to ambulate. Note: this is not a sanctioned para-cycling event.

Requirements

  • Arm-powered handcycle only — no foot-powered cycles
  • Helmet required; visibility flag recommended
  • Start time: 5-minute advanced start (7:55 AM)
  • Time limit & age requirement: Same as the general field

Duo Teams

A Duo Team consists of one athlete with a permanent disability (the rider) and one or more runners who push the rider in a specialized wheelchair. This division allows athletes who cannot self-locomote to participate fully in the race experience.

Rules

  • Rider must remain secured in the chair at all times
  • Pusher must maintain control of the chair at all times
  • Tether recommended
  • Maximum of two pushers per team; substitutions allowed during the race
  • No additional outside assistance permitted
  • Start time: 5-minute advanced start (7:55 AM)
  • Time limit: Same as the general field
  • Age requirement: Case-specific, please contact us for details regarding pusher age minimums

Ambulatory Adaptive Athletes

For athletes who run or walk but have disabilities such as limb differences, visual impairments, neurological conditions, or intellectual disabilities. These athletes start in the general field.

  • Start in the general field, or request an early/silent start behind the wheelchair division
  • Time limit & age requirement: Same as the general field

Guide Runners

A guide runner assists athletes with visual or other impairments with navigation and safety throughout the race.

  • Must register and run the entire race with their athlete
  • Must wear a guide identifier (bib or vest)
  • Cannot pull or propel the athlete
  • Number of guides allowed: 1 for the Half Marathon or 5K; 2 for the Full Marathon
  • Minimum age: 18 years old for all distances
  • Complimentary non-timed bibs (no medal or shirt included)
  • Discounted rate available for race shirt and/or medal

Equipment & Safety Requirements

  • Helmets: Required for all wheelchair and handcycle participants
  • Wheelchair specifications: Racing wheelchair recommended or required; equipment inspection may occur
  • Visibility: Flags or lights recommended for handcycles and chairs
  • Bib placement: Bib should be worn on the athlete and/or affixed to the wheelchair

Course Safety & Etiquette

  • Wheelchair/AWD participants: yield to the left-hand side of the road as the elite field overtakes the early start
  • Yield to emergency vehicles and official pace vehicles
  • Maintain a safe speed, follow passing etiquette, and comply with race official instructions

Awards & Results

  • Push-Rim Wheelchair, Handcycle, and Duo Team divisions: finisher medal
  • Ambulatory Adaptive Athletes: compete in and are scored with the general field

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a day chair?

A day chair may be used if fitted with an approved attachment (such as a FreeWheel). Helmets must be worn at all times by all wheelchair division participants.

Do guides need to register?

Yes – guide runners must register. They’ll receive a complimentary non-timed bib, with an option to add a shirt or medal at a discounted rate.

Can Duo Teams switch pushers mid-race?

Yes! Substitutions are allowed, with a maximum of two pushers per team, pushers must be registered.

Are service animals allowed?

Please contact us directly at info@beyondmonumental.org to discuss your specific needs and we’ll work with you to make it happen.

 

Questions? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at info@beyondmonumental.org