Race Procedures
Welcome to the community of road racing where mutual respect, honesty and consideration of other runners are the mile markers to live by. Whether you are about to toe the start line for the first time or a seasoned roadrunner, here are some tips to make your race day experience a smooth one.
- OBTAIN AN ENTRY FORM. Read the entry form carefully. It will contain important information about the time, location of the race and race route as well as registration rules and deadlines.
- ENTER EARLY. Compete the entry and sign the waiver form. Your entry will not be processed if you do not complete the form or sign the waiver. Registration rules are strictly enforced.
- PAY YOUR ENTRY FEE. Fees are used to offset race expenses and ensure that we can continue the road race program each year.
- PLAN WHAT TO BRING: Wear comfortable clothes and proper fitting shoes. Lay your gear out the night before, so you don't forget anything, especially not your race number. Plan for all kinds of weather. Most runners come dressed to run, but you might want to bring some extra clothes for post-race activities.
- PIN YOUR NUMBER ON THE FRONT: In road races, numbers are worn on the front. Use safety pins to secure your number on all four corners. Do not pin the lower tag, which is removed by race officials at the finish line.
- ARRIVE EARLY: Arrive at least 30-60 minutes before the scheduled race start and avoid feeling rushed. Allow time to pick up your number (if needed), warm up and visit the toilet. (The earlier you arrive, the shorter the lines you'll encounter.) Familiarize yourself with the route. If this is your first race, watch what other runners do, and do the same. When everybody starts moving toward the starting line, that's your cue too. Be warned, we start our races on time.
- BE WELL FUELLED. Eat a light, high carbohydrate meal (no fatty food) 2- 4 hours before the race. Drink fluids 10-15 minutes before the race and at Aid Stations along the route.
- START IN BACK: Don't make the mistake of starting near the front; otherwise you'll spend the first mile watching everybody run past you. Start toward the back. Avoid “rabbit starts” or jostling that may cause falls or injuries.
- KEEP TO THE LEFT. During the race, follow the instructions of race officials and police. Keep to the left and allow faster runners to pass. If you feel any discomfort during the race, go to the nearest Aid Station and ask for assistance.
- FINISH SMART. As you cross the finish line follow the directions of race officials to enter the finish chute. Maintain your place-order inside the chute until your race number tag is removed at the end of the chute. Your finish will not be recorded if your tag is not removed. Plan to stay around after the finish to enjoy the post-race activities and meet other runners.
The annual road race calendar is a voluntary effort of many selfless individuals who support and give back to the sport of road racing by donating their time on race day. If you would like to volunteer please email at info@jamdammers.com.
