FAQs
Q How many people are on the team?
A Over the past few years, on average, we are about 55 runners strong per season. There is no cap for the number of runners we are accepting, so join with a friend or two.
Q How often do you run as a team?
A Team MAD group runs will be held on Saturday or Sunday mornings. The location and times are announced at the start of each season.
Q Will additional locations be added?
A Team MAD would love to add additional training locations. If we can get enough runners to support additional areas we will add them.
Q Is there a registration fee?
A Yes. A small registration fee is applied to every runners application to cover your cost to enter the ING Hartford Marathon, Half Marathon or relay, a Team MAD running shirt, various team events, and a pre-race pasta dinner. When you register with Team MAD your overall race costs will be discounted until the end of August 30th. After this date our registration will be closed to allow us time to submit our paperwork to the Hartford Marathon Foundation.
Q Do I have to make the group runs?
A No, but you will want to. These runs tend to be motivational, educational, and just plain fun.
Q Do you have a training schedule?
A We do. This is offered to our runners when they register.
Q Do I need special running clothes?
A Yes. "Wicking" socks, shirts, and underwear will greatly help you come race day. Our "Happy Feet Clinic" at Fleet Feet is a great place to learn about and buy some running clothes.
Q What marathon does the Team MAD run?
A We run the ING Hartford (Half) Marathon in October.
Q Is Hartford the only marathon I can run to raise money?
A No. We do allow our runners who are committed to run a different race to train with us, but strongly encourage them to register for the Hartford Marathon and run with the team. We only have one training season at this time, but plan to expand our events in the coming years.
Q Can I bring a friend?
A You sure can...We are a friendly group and will even share our water stops with them.
Q Do they have to join Team MAD?
A No, they are welcome to run with us without joining, but we will not let them stop running until they join us...
Q If Team MAD has already started, is it too late to join?
A The training season is designed to gradually train your body and avoid injuries. Depending on how late in the season we might be able to provide you with the tools necessary to reach your goals. Contact us to learn more.
Q How long has Team MAD been around?
A We began as a running group in 2006, and formally became a charity in 2008. In the years since this time we have helped hundred of runners cross the finish for their first time!
Q When is the ING Hartford Marathon?
A The Hartford Marathon is typically held on the second Saturday in October. To learn more go to the official website for the ING Hartford Marathon.
Q What charity does Team MAD raise money for?
A In the past we have raised money for many different types of Connecticut based charities.
Q Are the donations tax free?
A Yes! We are a 501c3 charitable organization, and your donations are tax deductible up to the maximum amount allowed by law.
Q What if I have never run a mile in my life, how can I finish a full or half marathon?
A Many of our runners are new to running. Our training is designed to train you physically and mentally to accomplish your distance. We train you to be able to complete your distance...not win the race... Make sure you consult your physician to make sure you are in good health to train for and run a full or half marathon.
Q Is water provided at the team runs?
A Group runs will have water and Gatoraid every 3-4 miles...and sometimes a treat of GU or candy...
Q Is there a certain amount I'm required to raise?
A Yes. Our minimum required fundraising goal for each runner is $250. When compared to fundraising goals of most of the other charity endurance sport teams this is very small. We will give you support throughout the season to help you with your individual goals.
Q Who can sponsor me?
A Anyone who has money! Friends/Family/Co-workers.
Q What if I join and have to quit?
A Then we encourage you to join us the next year. Your registration fee can be applied to the following year.
Q What happens to the donations I've raised if I quit?
A They are donated to the benefactor just as the donator intended.
Q For real, can Team M.A.D. train ME to run 13.1 or 26.2 miles?
A It will not be easy but - We Can!!! If it was easy, why would you bother trying? We will challenge your body, your mind and your commitment to Making A Difference. There will be days you will doubt us...There will be days you don't think you can run another step...But slowly you will realize it is possible for you to run 13.1 or 26.2 miles. Make sure you consult your physician to make sure you are in good health to train for and run a full or half marathon.
|
