Frequently Asked Questions
(This tab was created to help beginner runners and to answer frequently asked questions. If you have a question, you are welcome to submit your question at the bottom of this page. Please double-check this FAQ before sending a question.)
Q: Is pre-registration necessary?
A: No, however, there are advantages to registering ahead of time. First, it costs less. Registration cost increases after Early Registration. Secondly, early registration guarantees your t-shirt size. If you register of race day, t-shirts are assigned first come-first served. Pre-registering is good for your nerves, too. Why worry about standing in line on race day? Just pre-register online.
Q: What is this Fun Run thing?
A: Since fitness choices often involve families, most races have a short Fun Run before or after the 5k. Most participants in a Fun Run are 14 years old or younger, but there isn't really an age limit. We will use the same start/finish line and do a quick 1/4 mile run down to the Buena Vista corner and back. This will not be a timed event. We intend for every participant to receive a little something at the end. You are welcome to run/walk with your little one. There is no cost to participate in the Fun Run unless you want a t-shirt, which has a $5 cost, while they last. To ensure you receive the appropriate size, we encourage you to pre-register.
Q: When will I receive the t-shirt and race #?
A: If you pre-register, you can pick up your t-shirt and goodie bag the day of the race before registration closes. Check out the "Race Day Info" tab for details.
Q: What is the email distribution list?
A: Everyone who signs up for the race will be placed on the SailView5k Runners Email Distribution List. This list will not be give to anyone, ever, period. All emails are sent using the bcc function to ensure that everyone's email address is kept private. The purpose of this list is: 1) to update runners of SailView5k news, 2) to update runners of other local events, 3) to announce an unlikely extreme situation(lightning, hurricane, snow, earthquake, etc.) that could delay/cancel the race, and 4) to provide notice that race results are posted on the website. If you have a need to send something to everyone, you can make that request to SailView5k@yahoo.com, and we will consider doing so.
Q: What if it is raining race day?
A: We intend to hold this race rain or shine. THERE ARE NO REFUNDS, ESPECIALLY DUE TO WEATHER. If there is strong lightening in the area, we may delay the race briefly. This will be an on-the-fly decision. If it is raining, I encourage you to come down to the start/finish line per the schedule on the "Race Day Schedule" tab. I will utilize the email distribution list(see other FAQ) to communicate as much as possible. The clubhouse will be open for shelter, if needed. If you are a walker and decide to walk with an umbrella, you are responsible for making sure you are safe in all aspects. In summary, rain is not going to stop us unless there is lightning in the area.
Q: When should I arrive at the race?
A: Arriving 45-60 minutes before the race is about right. This gives you plenty of time to register(if needed) or pick up your goodie bag, chit-chat with friends you see, warm up, stretch, enjoy some coffee, use the restroom, etc. Registration will close 30-45 minutes before the race. This will allow the timer to complete the runner entry information and to finalize things at the start line. T-shirt and goodie bag hand out will close 15 minutes before the race; these volunteers need to be re-located for the actual race. Everyone will start moving to the start line 10 minutes before the race. 45-60 minutes early is about right. Remember, 30 minutes early does not allow enough time to register.
Check out the "Race Day Info" tab for additional info details.
Q: What is a race number used for, and how/where do I attach it?
A: When you pick up your goodie bag and t-shirt, you will be given a race number that must be attached to your clothing and clearly visible as you approach and run through the finish line. The timers will connect your time to your #. It is critical to only use your #. If a parent/child pickup their goodie bags together, it is important not to mix up #'s. Wear the number assigned to YOU. Better to double-check at the registration table than for a teenager to win the 35-44 age group due to a mix up.(!) Safety pins will be provided at the goodie bag distribution. The numbers will be on a "bib" and the bibs will have a hole at each corner to pin it to your shirt. Usual spot is over your belly. When in doubt, look at how others are doing it. Racing belts or other means of holding your bib are fine as long as the #'s are clearly visible at the finish line.
Q: What if I have to use the restroom?
A: You will have free access to the restrooms at the clubhouse. There is 1 women's restroom and 1 men's restroom. For the 2011 race, the pool restrooms will NOT be open. Note that a lot of people use the restroom before a race. Plan ahead. Assume there will be a line. Be considerate and move through the restroom quickly. 8:45 may be pushing your luck to get back to the starting line...plan ahead. Knowwhuttamean?
Q: Should I wear the race shirt during the race? What should I wear?
A: You can wear the race shirt if you like, but most people do not. Many people wear "technical" shirts that wick away sweat and keep you cool during the run. It is common in early fall to have a mid-50's low that warms to low/mid 60's by 9am. You may want to wear a sweatshirt or "swishy pants" before the race and toss them to the side just before the start. Hats and gloves would be fine if you are cold. For the actual race, wear whatever you normally wear when you run.
Q: What if it is especially chilly?
A: I am not(!) a fashionista(not even sure I can spell it), but I do know a thing or two about keeping warm before races. If I were running the SV5k on a day in the upper 40's or low 50's, I would warm up in running pants with shorts underneath and a long sleeve shirt. I would bring a sweatshirt, hat, and running gloves, and I would probably wear them all during pre-race jogging and stretching. About 5 or 10 minutes before the race, I would go to the start line and remove all the extra clothing(running pants last). In my experience, warm leg muscles that are properly stretched are less prone to injury and perform better.
It is very common this time of year to see some piles of clothes placed in the grass near the start line. Runners are very honorable, and your clothes will almost certainly be exactly where you left them. That has been my experience, anyways.
Required disclaimer: The SailView 5k and all related entities are not responsible for any items left at the start line. Any items left at the finish line will be kept through the weekend. Call The Sally's YMCA if you accidentally left something; they MAY have picked it up but there is no guarantee. Unclaimed items will be donated to a local charity of my choice the Monday following the race.
Q: Where should I park the day of the race?
A: The SailView clubhouse has plenty of parking. Drive to the end of Silver Jade to the clubhouse. The parking area right next to the clubhouse will be blocked off with cones for the start/finish line, for sponsor tents, and for mulling around. The other two large parking areas should accommodate the event just fine. If you are driving from Lincolnton or from the surrounding Denver area, it may make sense to carpool with someone to save gas and to limit parking concerns. Also, you could meet at the CVS at 16 and Webb's. If the parking lots fill up, please do not park on Silver Jade since that is part of the course. If you must, you may consider one of the side streets off Silver Jade, although we really prefer you use the parking lots.
Q: Can I run with a stroller, bicycle, scooter, or other wheeled item?
A: Due to the inherent risks involved with runners/walkers/wheels in the same confined area, we really can not have any wheeled vehicles or assisting devices on the road. The SailView 5k is a hilly course, which will create different speeds for wheels going up/down hills verses people walking/running. For this reason, we must not allow wheels to participate simultaneous to the organized race. We know that this may be frustrating, but please understand these risks and do not bring wheeled vehicles or assisting devices on the course during the race.
Should someone decide to sneak on a wheeled item during the race, certainly that person would be ineligible for awards and certainly, the person would be responsible for any harm or injury as a result of riding/pushing/holding/driving/etc. the wheeled item.
Q: Can we bring dogs/pets?
A: Please note that Lincoln County Event Request forms clearly dictate that pets/animals of any kind are not permitted to be at the event. This includes bringing pets of any kind to the race start/finish area, the starting line, along the course, or with you on the course. Some races cater to dog runner divisions; this is not one of them. This is a human running event. No matter how trained or well-behaved pets are, accidents happen, and it makes sense to limit the potential risks when crowds are involved. I am a dog-lover, but a race is not the place for dogs.
Q: Are there any 'rules of the road' to know about the starting line?
A: These unwritten rules are all based out of common sense. Those at the very front of the starting line will likely be under 20 and/or some of the faster folks that will be aiming for a Top Overall time. If you run slower than a 7 minute mile, you probably should not be in the front row. Slower than an 8 minute mile, probably not in the first few rows. Everyone will kinda line up about 5 or 10 minutes before the start. It is very common to politely say, 'hello,' and to ask what time they are shooting for or something similar. If you are not sure where to start, err on the side of further back. It is safer when you are generally in an area with people that run about the same speed as you, especially at the beginning. Things will thin out in the first 1/4 mile. If you have to choose between speed or safety, always choose safety for those around you and for yourself.
Q: Are there any 'rules of the road' to know about passing people?
A: The start of any race can be a little squirrelly as everyone slots into place. Being safe is paramount. Maintain a straight line as much as possible. Leave space between you and the person in front of you. Do not drastically change speeds. If you have to stop for an injury or to tie your shoe, look around and move to the side of the road before slowing and stopping. If you need to pass someone, take a glance next to you and slowly drift over and then pass. You may even politely say, "on your left," or, "on your right." If you have the choice of 1) slowing down temporarily to let someone pass or 2) speeding up quickly to scoot around someone, I encourage slowing down as the safer choice. Use common sense, and err on the side of safety. Tripping someone on accident or falling will mess up the day. Be safe. Be courteous. Remember, people will be a little out of sorts when running at high physical stress levels. Do not assume they will see you slowing down; it is your job to get out of the people behind you before slowing down.
[modified 4-Nov-13]
Q: I don't think I can remember the exact course. How will I know where to go?
A: First of all, only the front runners need to really know the course route. Everyone else will be following them more than anything. The road is marked from year's past; we will add chalk arrows the morning of the race. If it helps you mentally, think of the course as T shaped; starting at the bottom of the T at the clubhouse, running "up the T" to Crepe Ridge and turning right, turn around at the cone in the road, them running "across the top of the T" past Silver Jade to the end of Rustling Woods Dr., turning around at the cone, then returning to Silver Jade and back to the clubhouse. Click here for MapMyRun Course link
Q: Will the roads be closed to vehicle traffic during the race?
A: No, the roads will not officially be closed. We will have signs at SailView entrances for the week prior to the race reminding SailView residents that there will be a race Saturday. Traffic on Saturday should be very light. Always be aware of vehicle traffic or other dangers.
Q: Should I run on the left side of the road? the right side of the road? the sidewalk?
A: Almost everyone will run on the road. The course distance was determined on the road; using the inside of every turn when it made sense. Traditional traffic laws encourage walkers/runners to stay on the left side of the road so you can seen oncoming traffic. However, if the road is curving or turning to the right, it is reasonable to want to cut the corner to save time. Just use common sense to look for vehicles before changing your position on the road. Always keep your eyes and ears alert for traffic and be prepared to move to the edge of the road. If you and a friend are chatting along, running side-by-side, think SAFETY FIRST, and stay alert.
Q: Is there a water station? How does that work?
A: Yes, there will be a water station on course. You will pass it approximately half way through the course; on Rustling Woods Dr., just after you cross over Silver Jade. The water station will be at the left side of the road during the first pass. There will be some volunteers offering you pre-poured cups of water. They will stagger how they stand and present the cup in a way that allows you to pick it up while running. If there are several volunteers, you may consider grabbing a cup from the last one so that people behind you grab water from the earlier volunteers. You can drink while on the run, or pull off to the side to drink. Drinking on the run can be a little tricky and create a coughing/choking scenario, so be careful. Do whatever is comfortable and safe for you. You can practice drinking on the run at home with a half-filled 6 ounce paper cup. Be alert to people running in front of you; they may unexpectedly slow down or swerve when grabbing their cup or drinking their water. If running through the water station isn't your style, no problem. You are welcome to slow down or walk through the water station. If you slow down to walk through, be aware that a runner may be behind you and sudden stops may create a hazard. After you drink your water, please "squeeze" the cup and throw it to the side of the road. (Un-squeezed cups can not be thrown as far and can roll back onto the course.) There will be trash containers placed after the water station, and it is encourage to try throwing the cup in/near the trash containers. No need to stop, but try to get it close. You are welcome to carry used cups to the race finish also. By the way, you will pass this same water station again towards the end of the race as you run back on Rustling Woods Dr toward the finish line. The water station is mostly intended for use during the first pass, although you are welcome to get another cup; just be courteous of people obtaining their first cup. You may just want to wait another 3/8 of a mile; there is water and sports drink at the finish line for all participants.
In summary, the water station just requires some common sense and a general idea of being aware of those around you. If everyone is reasonable, there are no problems.
Q: What does "turn around at the cone" mean?
A: There are two places on the course where you will have to "turn around the cone"; meaning that the race course is about to do a 180 degree turn and back track. Which way you go around the cone probably does not seem like a big deal, and it really isn't. The cones are far enough into the race that everyone will be spread out. However, for newbies, here is our suggestion. At the end of Crepe Ridge, you will probably be on the right side of the road around the curve; go counter clockwise around the cone. At the end of Rustling Woods Drive, you will probably be on the left side of the road around the curve; go clockwise around the cone. As long as you go around the cone, it really does not matter. Some people do a tight circle. Some people do a little bit wider to maintain speed. It's your call. If you are running behind someone, you may want to go the same way as them. Once you make the turn, please give those approaching the cone some space, meaning you shouldn't cut through a group or run in front of someone just to get to the inside of the curve. When in doubt, stay to the left of the road, but common sense and safety should always prevail.
Q: What should I do as I approach the finish line?
A: Some people approach the finish line at the same speed as they have been running. Some people speed up to maximize their time. The last couple hundred yards are a little bit of a downhill, so you will likely speed up a little bit naturally. Plus, as you see the finish, an unexpected boost of adrenaline or excitement may add a little boost too. Do what you like. Maybe try to catch that next person in front of you. Why not? Be aware of your surroundings, as always.
Q: What happens at the finish line?
A: Happiness, smiles, and usually a fair bit of sweating. Run through the finish line; slowing down and continue walking through "the chute" in the order that you crossed the finish line. Stay in order, This is important for the timing aspect of the race. Without getting into all the details and examples, please just stay in line in the order you finished. Do not jump out of the chute...it could mess things up. Once you leave the chute, there will be coolers of water and sports drink. We are planning on a water + a sports drink for each runner. Celebration, high fives, sweaty hugs, "how'd you do?", heavy breathing....all things you can expect to see.
Q: What happens after everyone finishes? Door Prizes?
A: We have added professional timers to the 2011 edition of the SailView 5k. After the last walker has passed the finish line(9:50-ish), Big Kahuna Timing will only need a couple minutes to start printing out and posting everyones times. During those few minutes, we will run the Fun Run(see FAQ above), which should only take 5 or 10 minutes. After the Fun Run(10-ish), we will announce the Overall and Age Group winners, and then, we will raffle off numerous door prizes. As we are gathering sponsors for the race, some local businesses provide free items to give away. Most items are under $20 (gift certificates, free hair cuts, free one-week membership, etc.), but there were plenty of items with a value of $40 or more last year. Our big prize was a gift certificate for a free pair of UGG footwear.
For 2011, expect more door prizes and a faster distribution process.