DoomBuggy Runner

In following up on yesterday’s post for running etiquette, today let’s discuss race day etiquette.  Here are some of the key elements to remember on race day to make your race and others a much better experience.

• Arrive early to the race!  Especially if you have to pick up your race bid.
• This should be obvious, but it happens.  Do not run in a race if you are not officially registered.
• Don’t run with a bib that is not for you or you did not purchase!
• PIN YOUR RACE BIB ON THE FRONT OF YOUR SHIRT OR SHORTS.  Putting it on your back is useless & disrespectful to the event!
• Abide by the rules of the race given to you either beforehand, at the expo, or on the event’s website.
• Don’t bring strollers, dogs, kids if the events recommends they are not permitted.
• Line up in the proper corral, and once in the corral, line up where you think your pace falls.  If you are in a chute for 8:00-9:00 paces and you have never ran close to an 8:00 mile, get at the back of the corral.  You will not have an amazing upgrade in speed by standing at the front.  You will just aggravate those around you when the race starts.  Walkers should always line up in the back.
• In following up with the above corral positioning, it doesn’t much matter in most races, because they are chip timed and will only start when you cross the start line.
• If you have music make sure you don’t start it too early in the corrals.  You may miss pre-race announcements that may be important during the race.
• Also, if you are wearing headphones, make sure the volume is at a level where you can listen to race officials on the course.
• When the race starts don’t push people in front of you to go, you will get there!  Don’t be rude!
• Reiterating from yesterday, only run two abreast.  Do not block to road so that runners behind you cannot easily get around.
• Don’t slow up or abruptly stop in the middle of the running area.  Slow and move to the side of the road.
• Be cognizant of other runners if you have to spit.  This also applies at water stops, just don’t throw your half full cup of water to the side or behind you and splash other runners!
• Do not stop suddenly at water tables or if you drop something or if your shoe comes untied. Move to the side slowly and make sure you do not cut off another runner. It’s OK to walk while you drink your water. Just stay to the side and carefully merge back with the other runners when you are ready.
• Throw trash in garbage cans or to the side of the course near the aid station.
• Don’t let your family (kids) run out to celebrate with you on the last portion of the race at the finish line.  Have them wait at the finisher chute so as to not inconvenience other runners.
• Don’t stop as soon as you cross the finish line!  There are others finishing behind you, and you could create a log jam or accident.
• Thank volunteers!
• Repeat – Thank the volunteers!  Without them there might not have been a race for you to run.
• Take the appropriate amount of food in the finishing area. This is not an all you can eat buffet for you and your family members.
• BE NICE AND POLITE!

I am sure there are more, but these are the main thoughts that come to mind at the moment.  If you have others, share them in the comments.  Thanks