FAQ's
You have questions, we have answers!
Are we fundraising this year at the run? Nope, our main fundraiser for the School/PTA is Invest In Your Child. This is a fun family event, we'd love for the entire family to participate.
Where do the proceeds go? The proceeds from this event will first cover our costs, a portion will go to the Amerman PTA, and a portion will go to our Charity Partner.
Where do I park? Please park at Amerman and/or in the adjoining neighborhood. A portion of the back parking lot will be closed off for the event. You may also park at Hillside and take the pedestrian bridge across 8 mile and down the sidewalk to the school.
Where is packet pick up? Early packet pickup - Friday November 8th after school from 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm. Race day packet pickup will be held race day morning starting at 9:00 am.
Can I pick up my family or friend’s packet at packet pick up? Yes. Just tell us their last name during packet pickup, we'll confirm their information with you.
If I pickup my bib # and t-shirt at early packet pickup do I need to check-in again on race day? Great question, NO you do not need to check in again. On race day morning arrive with enough time to park and head down to the start/finish area on the track. Please wear your bib # on the front of your outermost layer. The timing chip is on the back of your bib #, please do not alter, fold, bend your bib # in any way.
What are the T-shirt sizes? T-shirts are an add-on purchase for $10. We are offering youth sizes S-XL, adult sizes S-2XL. Shirts are available to purchase thru Sunday, October 27th.
What race swag do I receive? We have a super cool hot chocolate mug for you! Along with some yummy hot chocolate and fun fixings for it.
Is there an award ceremony? Awards will be available starting around 10:15 at the awards table. We will not have a ceremony, you'll be able to check your results and then come to the table to accept your award. Awards are given to the Top Male and Female Finisher ages 13 and over and ages 12 and under.
Do I need to register my kids? What are the age requirements? We kindly ask that everyone registers for the event. We've kept the entry fee low, enough to cover our costs. You can purchase a t-shirt as an option.
Is the race timed? YES it sure is. The Michigan Running Foundation will be on hand to time the event. You'll have an official time shortly after you cross the finish line.
Are baby joggers and strollers allowed? Yes, we ask that you line up in the back at the start of the event.
What about bikes, scooters, roller skates, skateboards? While we love all of these activities, we are limiting this event to running and walking only. The bike you'll see on the course is a course volunteer.
Are dogs allowed? No. We love our furry friends, however they are not allowed at this event. It's for their safety and the safety of our participants.
Can I wear headphones? Sure, there's nothing like some good tunes while you run. We just ask that you can still hear and are aware of your surroundings.
Are there restrooms? No, the school will not be open during the event, as such we do not have access to the restrooms. Please plan accordingly.
This is my first race what should I expect? I don't really run, can I walk? Congrats and YES, all ages and abilities are welcome. We're excited to have you! We recommend picking up your bib number during early packet pick up if you are able to. Plan on arriving on race day morning about a 1/2 hour prior to the start to park, get your shirt and bib number (if you did not pick it up at early packet pick up), and get warmed up. Wear the bib (your race number) on the outermost layer on your torso, we provide safety pins to pin it to your shirt. Pin in all four corners so the number does not flap when you're running/walking. Prior to the race the announcer will call everyone up to the start line. The speedy racers will line up at the front, everyone else lines up behind them. If you are running with a stroller we ask that you line up at the back. The race will start and off you go! There are plenty of other participants and course support to guide you along the way. Refreshments will be available after the finish. We will text you your results, and also have a QR code for you to scan to pull up your results. Lastly and most importantly HAVE FUN! You will love the energy from the race!
How should I dress? We recommend starting out a little cold, you'll warm up quickly if you are walking or running. If it's chilly a hat and gloves is always a good idea, and an outer layer that you can tie around your waist if you warm up. Lightweight breathable fabrics are best. Avoid 100% cotton as it absorbs moisture and will make you cold quickly. Dress for the weather and remember we need to see your bib # at all times and especially when you cross the finish line.
What if there is bad weather on the day of the event? The event will be held rain or shine, or snow, ;), however if there are storms the morning of the event or forecasted during the event we will monitor and communicate any delays to participants via email. In the event of lightning, the event will be delayed a half hour until from the last lighting strike until we are 30 minutes without a lightning strike. Participants will be asked to remain in their vehicles during this time. We will evaluate on race day if the race needs to be delayed or cancelled due to weather.
Are there refunds? This event will be held rain or shine, there are no refunds for this event. As you can imagine there is a lot of planning that goes into an event and costs associated with the event. T-shirts, awards, refreshments, etc. all have to be ordered ahead of time. If the race is cancelled for any reason, including weather, we will be unable to offer refunds, or if your plans change and you already signed up we are unable to offer refunds.
If your question was not answered above please email Michelle Garr at michelle@runningfoundation.com.