First 5k- A Few Logistics Questions

cannie55

I just finished the Couch to 5k program tonight (yay!) and am signed up for my first 5k race next weekend.

I've already sent in my sign up sheet for it. The info for the race says registration is at 8 and the race starts at 9. What time do I need to be there? I'm going by myself and don't know anyone else running in it, so I don't want to be there too early, I'll feel awkward standing around by myself. Should I take a water bottle or anything with me (wallet, id?)? Or is it better to leave that kind of thing in the car? I usually just run in a pair of yoga pants and a t-shirt with my university's logo, is that okay?

It's weird but I'm actually feeling semi-confidant about the running part, it's the logistics beforehand that are making me nervous! Sorry for the dumb questions

CindyRx

If registration starts at 8am, I'd plan on getting there close to that time. Leave everything in your car, including your water. There will be water stations and most likely they will hand out water bottles at the finish line. Don't feel self conscious about being alone, use that time to walk around and get warmed up and comfortable with your surroundings. Observe other people, the whole experience will just get you pumped and excited for your next race. Good luck and congrats!

catweazle12

Since I don't know how big the race is, it's hard to say, If it were me I'd be there by 8. I always like to get there early though.

You'll no doubt be nervous/excited and want to get to the porta potty, there's usually long line ups at these!

For a 5K you probably won't need water, unless it's really hot, there may be water stations, again depending on how big the race is. Just make sure you hydrate well in the days leading up to your race.

Always good to have some ID. Some bib #s have space on the back for allergies and who to contact if there's an emergency.

Don't try anything new on race day. For example, eat your normal breakfast. An hour before race time is not a good time to try out a new energy bar or whatever, wear your regular running clothes and shoes.

The beauty of a 5K is that you'll see every type of runner/walker, young/old, fast/slow, fat/skinny and everything in between.

Have fun and good luck

Cheval13

Ahh! So exciting. First of all, just have fun... enjoy being out there as a runner with all the other cool runners! Also, I am assuming that you've got the racing packet already? If not, I would be at the race at 8. Parking, picking up the packet (usually with some form of ID) and bringing stuff back to the car all need to be planned (especially since the staring line is usually not near the parking space). How you dress is personal preference, so wear what you always wear since you know it won't chafe, feel uncomfortable, etc. Plus, you may get a conversation staring with your uni logo!
As for water, they probably have water stations, and they definitely have bottles after the race (remember to try to recycle! Bring them home with you if there's no recycling at the race). All you need at the starting line is a way to get into your car after the race (and if you've got support, they can take care of holding the keys so you don't have to run with them!).
If you've got your packet already, pin your tag number on your shirt the night before, prepare the timing chip (if you've got one) and generally pretend like it was a first day of school like when you were in grade school. Set two alarms, probably at least by 7 AM, and DON'T PANIC about anything. I hope you have fun!

sherrillg

Please always carry some type of ID with you when you are running/walking. Agree with PP you won't need anything else. If you are preregistered, then you don't NEED to be there at 8 but it will give you some time to acclimate to the area and weather/temp. Most of all, just enjoy!

cannie55

Thanks so much for the help! It looks like the weather will be in the 50s and rainy, so heat shouldn't be an issue. So far I've been running in the evening on the indoor track at the gym. On Sunday I think I'll wake up, have breakfast and go for my run to see how running in the morning goes and to make sure my breakfast will be okay.

I don't have the pre-race packet yet. I just mailed my registration paper off a couple days ago so I'll plan on getting there around 8 to make sure I have time to pick everything up.

Thanks again for the advice- I'm getting excited!

jessradtke

Oh, how exciting! I wish I could go back and feel that first race excitement again. They're all exciting of course, but that first is special. I don't always know ahead of time what the parking situation will be, how far I will need to walk to the check in or starting line (sometime you may even have to wait for a shuttle), how long the lines will be at the porta potties/bathrooms (I always have to go at least twice before I run), etc., so I prefer to be there early even if I've already picked up my packet. Wear whatever you are used to running in, and use some of that nervous energy while you're waiting by walking, stretching a little, warming up, meeting other runners, and maybe getting an idea of where you will be in the starting pack. I prefer not to take anything I don't absolutely need, so I try to leave everything except my car key in the car. Every race I've been to here has water stations and snacks afterward, but you might want to pack drinks and snacks in your car just in case the ones they provide suck. lol Enjoy!!

cannie55

Every race I've been to here has water stations and snacks afterward, but you might want to pack drinks and snacks in your car just in case the ones they provide suck. lol Enjoy!!

The race I'm doing is sponsored by a local bread company and bakery- I'm certain the snacks will be delicious

What about my ipod- are those allowed in races?