Course: Double out-and-back between the 9 and 11 mile markers on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath, start and finish at Carderock Recreation Area, Maryland.

Fees: $5 for non-club-members, free to club members.  Pre-registration is strongly encouraged since we are prohibited from accepting race fees on National Park Service property.

NPS Race Rules:  This race takes place in the National Park Service's jurisdiction.  Please familiarize yourself and comply with our NPS Race Rules.

Special instructions: This race uses an unusual age-handicapped format, in which older runners start early and younger runners start late.  There are approximately 20 separate start times, which are based on age-group records for men and women.  Winners of the race have ranged from teens to 50-somethings, both men and women.  All runners receive prizes since all participants are encouraged to contribute unique used items to the prize pool.  Past prizes have included 1970s baseball cards, a Simpsons dart board, a New Guinean sheath.  More conventional prizes also are awarded, including cherry, apple, and blueberry pies in commemoration of the nation's birthday. 

Volunteers:  Yes, please volunteer!  We always need volunteers, including friends and family who accompany runners to the race.  Volunteering to serve during the race (thereby not competing) fulfills the requirement for getting a Bunion Derby award. To volunteer, contact race director Ian Clements, ianclem@yahoo.com.

Location address: Carderock Recreation Area, Maryland.  No street address available since it’s in a National Park.  To access Google directions, click here or use the following address:  Carderock Recreation Area, Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historic Park, Potomac, Maryland 20854.

Directions: Capitol Beltway (I-495), Exit 41 (Clara Barton Parkway).  Follow signs that say: Maryland and/or Carderock/Glen Echo.  Drive about a mile and exit Right at the Carderock sign.  Follow additional signs to the parking lots.