frequently asked questions
Help! It's my turn to host a run. Do you have any tips?
I'm glad you asked!
Two weeks before the date, measure a route identifying water stops every 2 miles. Our weekly runs are usually Saturday 10-milers (less if very hilly). During training programs the mileage and route need to accommodate those in training. Any doubt, please check with the Jamdammer in charge of scheduling the weekly runs. Once the route is set, email the details, including the location and start time, to same said person who will distribute to all Jamdammers. The goal is to distribute the run email by Tuesday of each week. If you plan to host an out-of-town run (we love those!) give at least 3 weeks notice.
Get your crew on board. You will need water angels (minimum two) plus a sweeper. Call the injured, the family, the friends. Assign the water stops (WS) taking into consideration the time between the leaders of the pack (7 min pace) and the stragglers (15 min pace). Ensure that your crew is familiar with the route and assign the sweeper role to the most experienced person. Plan your post-run lime based on feedback on the number of people expected. The menu can be simple, elaborate or a mini potluck. Do not feel intimidated or the need to compete; ask for help if you need it. Whatever you do, don't forget the freshly brewed Blue Mountain coffee!
Before the day of the run, get a large cooler for each water vehicle (loaner coolers are available from the club), have copies of the route to hand out to each driver and extra for the runners. On run morning, give a wake-up call to your crew.
Get to the run location 30 mins before the start time. Use the opportunity to brief drivers on the WS locations and how they need to move around the route. Exchange cell numbers. Give instructions to call when the first and last runner comes through each WS so that the next WS will know approximately when runners will get to their location. The sweeper is to pay special attention to stragglers, lone females and anyone else out of sync with the group. Prepare the coolers with ice & emergency bottled water.
Before the start time, review the route and water stops with the runners. If anyone plans to walk or do more or less mileage, you need to know. It is also a good time to introduce any new people to the group. Collect car keys. Do a head count as the runners head off.
Expect the leaders to finish at a 7 min pace. Ensure that car keys are available, bathrooms accessible and light refreshments (water, juice, coffee, fruit) are in place. If you want to run, assign one person on your team who will be responsible for ensuring all goes to plan.
After the run, return borrowed coolers in a clean condition.
Can I invite a friend(s) to a weekly run?
Sure nuff! Advise your host that you will bring a friend(s). Ensure that they bring their own hydration fluids (2 bottles). Be a good host -- introduce them around, ensure that they have running partners or stay with them yourself.
What is a Jamcrasher?
Name given to a frequent and familiar runner at club runs who hasn't completed a Jamdammer membership application. History shows that Jamcrashers make the best Jamdammers.
I've enjoyed the vibe at the weekly runs. How do I become a Jamdammer?
Read the Guidelines for membership and complete the membership application. Your application must be proposed and be seconded by two existing members who have been Jamdammers for at least two years. After a review by the Membership Committee, the application is circulated to the wider membership who may raise a written objection within two (2) weeks of its circulation. With no objection - you're in.
When are membership fees due?
For new members, fees are due upon submission of the membership application. After that, annual membership fees are due on the first meeting of each year. Failing to pay fees by January 31 means you will be delisted from the club emails and your membership suspended.
Does membership have its privileges?
Among the many, your Jamdammer membership card entitles you to discounts. See Membership Discounts
