FAQ

How can I register?  The Wine Country Half provides simple & secure online registration. Visa & MasterCard are accepted. A mail-in registration form is also available on the website in pdf format. Checks can be sent if using the mail-in form. Make checks out to Destination Races.

Why does my credit card statement have a charge from "Active.com"?  Active.com is providing event registration and credit card processing for Destination Races.

What is my entry fee used for?  You are receiving the finest in race technology, event operations and industry support. Many permits are required and fees must be paid to seven different state, city and county government agencies that provide facilities and services for the event. Your fee also includes finisher medals, shirts, wine and other awards, entertainment, food and beverage. In addition, a percentage of your entry fee is directed to our wonderful volunteers and non-profit beneficiaries.

If I can’t make the race can I get a refund?  Entry fees are typically non-refundable and entries are non-transferable. However, Destination Races does offer a refund if applied for prior to March 31, 2009. A $15 processing fee will be charged.  If you have a hardship and are unable to compete, Destination Races will allow you a credit of 50% of your entry fee to another future race. We will email you an application form but it must be applied for while registration is still open. Or, we will be happy to mail you a shirt from the race. Please email a request with your cancellation and include your name, street address, phone number and T-shirt size. Email us at raceinfo@destinationraces.com

Who can participate?  The Wine Country Half Marathon is open to runners and racewalkers that can complete the course in 3 hours 30 minutes or less, keeping a maximum 15:00 minute mile pace. Casual walkers are not permitted due to traffic and safety concerns.

How can I set up a Team?  Have a captain register your team name and password online here (link to registration for team) and pass it on to team members to receive $5 off per entry. Teams are comprised of at least 6 members and a maximum of 15 per team. You may enter multiple teams.  Have your teams ready to sign up early.

Can I add team members?  Yes, once your team is established, you're team members need to register individually with the exact team name.

Can I run the race course if I am not registered?  No, registration fees include numerous permits and insurance policies designed to protect registered runners on the race course.

Does the race have a registrant cut-off?  Yes, when the race sells out. =

How do I receive my Race Packet?  All runners should pick-up their race packets at the Expo. You may also authorize a fellow runner or friend to pick up your packet at the Expo. If you are unable to pick up your packet at the Expo you must pre-arrange and pay for a pickup on Sunday morning at the race start area by emailing us. $15 is the cost.

Is there a place to check clothing on race morning?  Yes. A bag check in is provided at the start. You must write your name and bib number on the bag and it will be transported to the finish area at bag pickup. Race organizers are not responsible for any lost items so do not include any items of value.

Are there restrooms on the course?  Yes.  There will be porta-potties at Sonoma Valley High School (transportation area), the start area, the 7.5 mile mark (Homewood at Hwy 121) and at the finish area in the Plaza.  Additional porta-potties will be added by CCFA Team Challenge at various points along the course, usually at each aid station.

How can my business, race or organization get exposure at the event?  There are numerous opportunities for corporate team competition, product sampling and event sponsorship opportunities. Please contact our Matt Dockstader (matt@destinationraces.com) or click on the Active Network corporate challenge link on the home page.

Should I bring my friends and family?  Absolutely. Destination Races are created with the intent to entertain your guests, as well participants. There are many things to do and see in Napa and Sonoma. The most obvious is wine tasting and tours but many other activities and things to see are listed on the official visitor websites provided in the travel and lodging section.

Are guests welcome to the event activities?  Yes, we encourage you to bring your family and friends to all event activities such as the Expo, race dinner, and Wine & Music Festival. An extra wine glasses may be purchased for your guest at the time of registration or at the event.  The dinner requires reservations which can be purchased online or by sending a check to Destination Races at 1905 Sperring Ave. Sonoma, CA 95476.

I am coming from out of town, where should I stay?  Many host hotels are offering discounts to event participants and out listed on our travel and lodging page. You should make your reservations early, as these hotels will sell out. You can also find other hotel and B&B properties by clicking on the links provided. Less expensive rooms may be found in neighboring cities, such as Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Novato, Vallejo and Fairfield.

What airports do I fly into?  Three airports are within 90 minutes of Napa and Sonoma.  San Francisco, Oakland and Sacramento.  You may also fly direct into Santa Rosa on Horizon via Los Angeles or Seattle. For details on travel, click here.

How do I get to the start line? See our Transportation section under Race Info

Will there be photos taken?  A professional photography team will take your photo during the race, and at the finish line and will be available for post-race candid photographs with your family, friends and/or athletic supporters. Be sure to wear your bib number where it's visible and smile when you see the photographers. These photos will be posted on brightroom.com three days after the event, visit brightroom.com to be notified immediately when the photos are live.