• Early return of the race entry form or online registration will result in an advantageous position in the run to bike and bike to canoe changeover zones.
• New! Canoes are only allowed in the Canoe categories and kayaks are only allowed in the Kayak categories.
• Run and bike splits will be timed with the ChampionChip electronic timing system. Racers will wear small electronic chips which will mark your finish times. These must be returned to race volunteers after finishing or a $30 replacement charge will be assessed. Full details
• There are no age group categories in the Family and Corporate categories.
• All teams must enter in one of the team categories. However, the top teams in each race will place in the Open Division (see below), regardless of category.
• The average of all team members' ages on race day determines the age group.
• Canoeists: No double ended paddles allowed. Life Jackets must be located in the boat. The race committee reserves the right to require canoeists to wear their life jackets.
• Canoeists: All canoes must meet U.S. Canoe Association competition specifications for either Competition Cruisers (4x32) or Pro Boats (3x27).
• Canoeists: Canoes without two life jackets will be disqualified.
• Kayaks: Double ended paddles required. Life Jacket must be located in the boat. The race committee reserves the right to require paddlers to wear their life jackets.
• Kayaks: No surf skis will be allowed. No other restrictions.
• Kayaks: Kayaks without life jackets will be disqualified.
• Note to runners and cyclists: Walking is not a cause for disqualification.
• Cyclists: Approved bike helmets are required for all cyclists. Cyclists without helmets will be disqualified.
• Tandem racers: Each participant must either run or bike and both must canoe.
• All racers and especially tandem racers: Each participant is responsible for his or her own equipment
• Rules for team changes.
• Tandem teams take notice! Not a new rule, but the rule requiring tandem bikers to rack their bikes in the changeover zone will be strictly enforced. Details.
• All racers must show proof of age to redeem beverage tickets for beer. Bring your ID!
• Specific team instructions for race day are avaliable here

These special memorial awards will be presented on Great Race Day to honor athletes in the race and supporters of the race:

• The Jule Verdi Award, presented to the first 4 person (canoe) team to finish the traditional course.
• The Bill Michaels Award , presented to the first female and first male runner to finish the 10 kilometer portion of the traditional race.
• The Brian Hanley Memorial Award, presented to the first all female 4 person (canoe) team to finish the traditional course.
• The Harriet Tubman Award, presented to the first all female 4 person (canoe) team to finish the short course. About Harriet Tubman
• The Paul Ringwood Senior Memorial Award, presented to the first place finisher in the Family Category in the short race.
• The Newman Award, presented to the oldest (average age) 4 person team to finish either race.
• The Bonnie Foster Dello Stritto Award, presented to the youngest team to finish the race (either the short or traditional course).
• The "Big John" Connors Award, presented to an outstanding Great Race volunteer or group of volunteers.
• The Frank Ruggiero Memorial Scholarship awarded to a deserving college bound 2008 Great Race athlete or volunteer.