A 5K is short race that's 3.1 miles long. Because of the short distance, 5K races are popular with beginner runners and people racing for the first time. It's important for all runners to understand the etiquette and rules before embarking on a 5K race. This helps ensure runners and volunteers stay safe, and that no one is at a disadvantage.
Before Line-up
Most races are comprised of volunteers. To make their jobs easier, it's best to register for your 5K race ahead of time, usually online. Registering on the day of the race puts an extra strain on the volunteers, who are busy checking runners in, handing out race numbers and answering questions. Anything you can do ahead of time will make their jobs easier. Display your race number properly; pin it to the front of your shorts or shirt. This helps race officials easily identify you.
At the Start
At a 5K, racers line up according to running ability. Strong runners start in the front while walkers and slower runners line up behind them. Not all racers begin at the same time. Don't push or try to squeeze to the front of the line -- this is dangerous and discourteous to others.
During the Race
If you drop something near the start, don't stop and pick it up. Don't throw litter on the course. One of the most important rules to remember is to keep moving. Stopping suddenly or slowing down to a walk without notifying the runners around you may make others stop without warning or swerve around you. Run no more than two abreast and pass other runners on the left. If you want to take water at an aid station, grab it and keep running. If you stop, this can prevent other participants from getting to the aid station.
Considerations
After you finish your race, don't stop suddenly. Keep running until you're away from the finish line. Always yield to emergency vehicles. Notify race officials if a fellow runner needs help. Don't run down the middle of the road. Always alert people that you're passing them. And it's always good etiquette to cheer on your fellow runners.
CLICK TO REGISTER: https://www.raceentry.com/races/na-5k/2015/register
*highlights from http://www.livestrong.com/article/445570-5k-race-etiquette/
Before Line-up
Most races are comprised of volunteers. To make their jobs easier, it's best to register for your 5K race ahead of time, usually online. Registering on the day of the race puts an extra strain on the volunteers, who are busy checking runners in, handing out race numbers and answering questions. Anything you can do ahead of time will make their jobs easier. Display your race number properly; pin it to the front of your shorts or shirt. This helps race officials easily identify you.
At the Start
At a 5K, racers line up according to running ability. Strong runners start in the front while walkers and slower runners line up behind them. Not all racers begin at the same time. Don't push or try to squeeze to the front of the line -- this is dangerous and discourteous to others.
During the Race
If you drop something near the start, don't stop and pick it up. Don't throw litter on the course. One of the most important rules to remember is to keep moving. Stopping suddenly or slowing down to a walk without notifying the runners around you may make others stop without warning or swerve around you. Run no more than two abreast and pass other runners on the left. If you want to take water at an aid station, grab it and keep running. If you stop, this can prevent other participants from getting to the aid station.
Considerations
After you finish your race, don't stop suddenly. Keep running until you're away from the finish line. Always yield to emergency vehicles. Notify race officials if a fellow runner needs help. Don't run down the middle of the road. Always alert people that you're passing them. And it's always good etiquette to cheer on your fellow runners.
CLICK TO REGISTER: https://www.raceentry.com/races/na-5k/2015/register
*highlights from http://www.livestrong.com/article/445570-5k-race-etiquette/