ROAD CLOSURES: The letter race officials to Tacoma residents living near the race course.
Road Closures Letter

Race organizer Danette Felt says participants will see several key changes at the Sound to Narrows this year.

- The race will use chip timers for the first time. Runners will strap a microchip to their ankle that will automatically record their time. Walkers will not wear the chips, Felt said.

- Pierce Transit shuttle service to the race, which has been free in the past, will cost $1.50 each way. A new federal regulation prohibits Pierce Transit from letting race sponsor Multicare pay for the shuttle. Multicare paid $6,000 to cover shuttle expenses last year.

- The 5-kilometer course has changed so runners don’t have to spend as much time running on Pearl Street. The change will mean fewer traffic restrictions during the race, Felt said.

- For the first time medals will be awarded for the first 400 finishers in the junior shuffle, Felt said.

- Ignious Rocks, a band that has traditionally played along the course will play at the finish line this year.
“We think having the band at the finish line it will add to the atmosphere,” Felt said. “… We are excited about all the changes. I think its going to be a good year.”