5K advice from California?

Drop_it_Like_Its_Hawt

I've done my first 5K event at last, and hungry for more - but as I search online for my next big event, I'm learning that these 5K's get pretty expensive (especially if I'm looking to get family to do it with me). I live in the Santa Cruz area, and am ridiculously poor right now. Do any local CA folks know of annual 5K run/walks, that are very low cost (or dare I hope, free?) My goal is to keep building endurance/speed until I work myself up to a 10K by next year. Anywhere relatively nearby (San Fran, San Jose, Monterey, etc.) would be great.

CarsonRuns

Not sure about your area, but here the local running club puts on a race series and the cost is usually $2 for members ($25 per year for membership) or $6 for non-members. So, maybe search for running clubs in your area. Here is a list of clubs in California that are Road Runners Club of America members.

http://www.rrca.org/forms/Clubs/search?Company_MainAddress_state=7&action=Search

CatShelton

Most of what is available near me, and granted, I am in NY is all charity runs, so they charge 20+ for the race so that the make enough for everyone to get t-shirts, medals, and for there to be a good amount going to the charity. That's just my experience.

srcardinal10

http://www.roadracerunner.com/races/runningcalendar.aspx?state=ca

Runs4Wine

I'm in the East Bay, and most 5Ks are roughly around $20-30 each, which is why I limit the number of races I do every year. You can occasionally find various small races for around $5 in the City and they are advertised on Active.com. The key is finding races where you don't get the goodies - shirt, medal, post race food.

Many communities do running fundraisers for education, but there again they are between $20-30 each registration fee.

The cost goes for the timing/race official companies, road closures, shirts & food/water afterward.

petstorekitty

you don't actully have to pay to participate.
You don't get a badge or fancy electronic tracker but you can just show up and run with everyone else.

If you don't fancy that, you can check into Amazon local. I get offers for dicount tickets to 5K all the time.
all the time.

I'm on a super strict budget so paying for a 5K is out of the question, but I still join my friends on occassion just for the experience.
I *really * wanted to do the Long Beach Red Ribbon run in June but I was broke when I got the Amazon Local offer. It's just more $$ than I have atm. T_T

Oh you can guess, I'm in CA too :)

ImtheOnethatsCool

you don't actully have to pay to participate.
You don't get a badge or fancy electronic tracker but you can just show up and run with everyone else.

No. Don't do this. You take resources away from the people who actually PAID for the race. They hire security and medics for these races, and they hire the amount required to cover the people who actually paid.

CarsonRuns

you don't actully have to pay to participate.
You don't get a badge or fancy electronic tracker but you can just show up and run with everyone else.

Banditing a race is really not cool. It's stealing. Everyone else has paid for all the resources there. If you can't afford to race, stay off the course.

ThickMcRunFast

you don't actully have to pay to participate.
You don't get a badge or fancy electronic tracker but you can just show up and run with everyone else.

No. Don't do this. You take resources away from the people who actually PAID for the race. They hire security and medics for these races, and they hire the amount required to cover the people who actually paid.

Agreed, don't bandit the race. Race directors plan their resources based on how many people register. You can find good local deals, and living social or groupon always has 10 or 15$ off deals for 5ks. I'm in Socal, but my running store has free fun runs every week, so you can look into local running clubs and see what they have to offer.

Runs4Wine

you don't actully have to pay to participate.
You don't get a badge or fancy electronic tracker but you can just show up and run with everyone else.

No. Don't do this. You take resources away from the people who actually PAID for the race. They hire security and medics for these races, and they hire the amount required to cover the people who actually paid.

I agree, don't do this. In some races if you're not wearing a bib, they'll kick you off the course.

I was traveling for work and inadvertently came upon a race that was scheduled - I was just out for a regular run. I was kindly asked to alter my route.

LoraF83

you don't actully have to pay to participate.
You don't get a badge or fancy electronic tracker but you can just show up and run with everyone else.

If you don't fancy that, you can check into Amazon local. I get offers for dicount tickets to 5K all the time.
all the time.

I'm on a super strict budget so paying for a 5K is out of the question, but I still join my friends on occassion just for the experience.
I *really * wanted to do the Long Beach Red Ribbon run in June but I was broke when I got the Amazon Local offer. It's just more $$ than I have atm. T_T

Oh you can guess, I'm in CA too :)

Don't run in a race you aren't registered for. That's not cool.

You can find deals through Groupon, Living Social, etc. Races in small towns will be cheaper than races in big cities. For example, I'm in Indiana. I'm running the 5K at the Mini Marathon tomorrow. I paid $40 to run in it. For that, I get a tech shirt, hat, timing (with splits and live updates to my facebook page), and a medal. To contrast, the county I live in has 6 local festivals every summer, 5 of which have 5ks. They are only about $15-$20 to run. That usually includes a cotton tshirt and timing. You don't get as much, but it's more affordable. Look at the small towns surrounding where you live. Also look for races that support schools, hospitals, etc. Those are usually cheaper than the big city, well-known races.

Also check out your local running stores. They offer fun runs frequently. Running clubs will also put together training runs, which can be a great way to get to know other runners.

petstorekitty

you don't actully have to pay to participate.
You don't get a badge or fancy electronic tracker but you can just show up and run with everyone else.

If you don't fancy that, you can check into Amazon local. I get offers for dicount tickets to 5K all the time.
all the time.

I'm on a super strict budget so paying for a 5K is out of the question, but I still join my friends on occassion just for the experience.
I *really * wanted to do the Long Beach Red Ribbon run in June but I was broke when I got the Amazon Local offer. It's just more $$ than I have atm. T_T

Oh you can guess, I'm in CA too :)

Don't run in a race you aren't registered for. That's not cool.

You can find deals through Groupon, Living Social, etc. Races in small towns will be cheaper than races in big cities. For example, I'm in Indiana. I'm running the 5K at the Mini Marathon tomorrow. I paid $40 to run in it. For that, I get a tech shirt, hat, timing (with splits and live updates to my facebook page), and a medal. To contrast, the county I live in has 6 local festivals every summer, 5 of which have 5ks. They are only about $15-$20 to run. That usually includes a cotton tshirt and timing. You don't get as much, but it's more affordable. Look at the small towns surrounding where you live. Also look for races that support schools, hospitals, etc. Those are usually cheaper than the big city, well-known races.

Also check out your local running stores. They offer fun runs frequently. Running clubs will also put together training runs, which can be a great way to get to know other runners.

how is it "not cool" it's not like I'm stealing money from charity if I'm on the sidewalk.
I just went anyway b/c my friend invited me to run with her. No one shook me down for being there. I don't want t-shirts and I'm already awkward enough about the fact that my money is limited. Thanks.

petstorekitty

you don't actully have to pay to participate.
You don't get a badge or fancy electronic tracker but you can just show up and run with everyone else.

Banditing a race is really not cool. It's stealing. Everyone else has paid for all the resources there. If you can't afford to race, stay off the course.

what resources? All I did was run next to my friend then went home.
I guess Since I never got or took anything from the race I felt it was fine.


Oh wait, I forgot, most people only do stuff if they get rewards. /:

LoraF83

you don't actully have to pay to participate.
You don't get a badge or fancy electronic tracker but you can just show up and run with everyone else.

If you don't fancy that, you can check into Amazon local. I get offers for dicount tickets to 5K all the time.
all the time.

I'm on a super strict budget so paying for a 5K is out of the question, but I still join my friends on occassion just for the experience.
I *really * wanted to do the Long Beach Red Ribbon run in June but I was broke when I got the Amazon Local offer. It's just more $$ than I have atm. T_T

Oh you can guess, I'm in CA too :)

Don't run in a race you aren't registered for. That's not cool.

You can find deals through Groupon, Living Social, etc. Races in small towns will be cheaper than races in big cities. For example, I'm in Indiana. I'm running the 5K at the Mini Marathon tomorrow. I paid $40 to run in it. For that, I get a tech shirt, hat, timing (with splits and live updates to my facebook page), and a medal. To contrast, the county I live in has 6 local festivals every summer, 5 of which have 5ks. They are only about $15-$20 to run. That usually includes a cotton tshirt and timing. You don't get as much, but it's more affordable. Look at the small towns surrounding where you live. Also look for races that support schools, hospitals, etc. Those are usually cheaper than the big city, well-known races.

Also check out your local running stores. They offer fun runs frequently. Running clubs will also put together training runs, which can be a great way to get to know other runners.

how is it "not cool" it's not like I'm stealing money from charity if I'm on the sidewalk.
I just went anyway b/c my friend invited me to run with her. No one shook me down for being there. I don't want t-shirts and I'm already awkward enough about the fact that my money is limited. Thanks.

I'm sorry your funds are tight. Been there, done that.

However, race organizers work hard to set up a course, put together packets, organize timing, etc. It's so participants can enjoy the benefits of the race. By just jumping in and running anyway, you're saying you disrespect their work and the rules which (usually) say that no one is allowed on the course that hasn't paid.

Good luck to you and I hope your financial situation turns around.

CarsonRuns

you don't actully have to pay to participate.
You don't get a badge or fancy electronic tracker but you can just show up and run with everyone else.

If you don't fancy that, you can check into Amazon local. I get offers for dicount tickets to 5K all the time.
all the time.

I'm on a super strict budget so paying for a 5K is out of the question, but I still join my friends on occassion just for the experience.
I *really * wanted to do the Long Beach Red Ribbon run in June but I was broke when I got the Amazon Local offer. It's just more $$ than I have atm. T_T

Oh you can guess, I'm in CA too :)

Don't run in a race you aren't registered for. That's not cool.

You can find deals through Groupon, Living Social, etc. Races in small towns will be cheaper than races in big cities. For example, I'm in Indiana. I'm running the 5K at the Mini Marathon tomorrow. I paid $40 to run in it. For that, I get a tech shirt, hat, timing (with splits and live updates to my facebook page), and a medal. To contrast, the county I live in has 6 local festivals every summer, 5 of which have 5ks. They are only about $15-$20 to run. That usually includes a cotton tshirt and timing. You don't get as much, but it's more affordable. Look at the small towns surrounding where you live. Also look for races that support schools, hospitals, etc. Those are usually cheaper than the big city, well-known races.

Also check out your local running stores. They offer fun runs frequently. Running clubs will also put together training runs, which can be a great way to get to know other runners.

how is it "not cool" it's not like I'm stealing money from charity if I'm on the sidewalk.
I just went anyway b/c my friend invited me to run with her. No one shook me down for being there. I don't want t-shirts and I'm already awkward enough about the fact that my money is limited. Thanks.

I'm sorry your funds are tight. Been there, done that.

However, race organizers work hard to set up a course, put together packets, organize timing, etc. It's so participants can enjoy the benefits of the race. By just jumping in and running anyway, you're saying you disrespect their work and the rules which (usually) say that no one is allowed on the course that hasn't paid.

Good luck to you and I hope your financial situation turns around.

And also from a liability perspective. You haven't signed the waiver that usually accompanies the entry absolving them of responsibility in the event that you get hurt through your own actions. I'm sure this doesn't matter to you, but it sure as heck matters to the race director.

petstorekitty

you don't actully have to pay to participate.
You don't get a badge or fancy electronic tracker but you can just show up and run with everyone else.

If you don't fancy that, you can check into Amazon local. I get offers for dicount tickets to 5K all the time.
all the time.

I'm on a super strict budget so paying for a 5K is out of the question, but I still join my friends on occassion just for the experience.
I *really * wanted to do the Long Beach Red Ribbon run in June but I was broke when I got the Amazon Local offer. It's just more $$ than I have atm. T_T

Oh you can guess, I'm in CA too :)

Don't run in a race you aren't registered for. That's not cool.

You can find deals through Groupon, Living Social, etc. Races in small towns will be cheaper than races in big cities. For example, I'm in Indiana. I'm running the 5K at the Mini Marathon tomorrow. I paid $40 to run in it. For that, I get a tech shirt, hat, timing (with splits and live updates to my facebook page), and a medal. To contrast, the county I live in has 6 local festivals every summer, 5 of which have 5ks. They are only about $15-$20 to run. That usually includes a cotton tshirt and timing. You don't get as much, but it's more affordable. Look at the small towns surrounding where you live. Also look for races that support schools, hospitals, etc. Those are usually cheaper than the big city, well-known races.

Also check out your local running stores. They offer fun runs frequently. Running clubs will also put together training runs, which can be a great way to get to know other runners.

how is it "not cool" it's not like I'm stealing money from charity if I'm on the sidewalk.
I just went anyway b/c my friend invited me to run with her. No one shook me down for being there. I don't want t-shirts and I'm already awkward enough about the fact that my money is limited. Thanks.

I'm sorry your funds are tight. Been there, done that.

However, race organizers work hard to set up a course, put together packets, organize timing, etc. It's so participants can enjoy the benefits of the race. By just jumping in and running anyway, you're saying you disrespect their work and the rules which (usually) say that no one is allowed on the course that hasn't paid.

Good luck to you and I hope your financial situation turns around.

And also from a liability perspective. You haven't signed the waiver that usually accompanies the entry absolving them of responsibility in the event that you get hurt through your own actions. I'm sure this doesn't matter to you, but it sure as heck matters to the race director.

Good point. My friend is actually orgnizing a 5k. I shall ask her about this stuff. :)

LoraF83

To bring up another option, a lot of races will let you run for free if you volunteer. Maybe you fill the participant bags a few days before? Or you help with clean up afterwards? Most races (especially the big ones) are always scrambling for help, so I'm sure you can find a way to trade your entry for a few hours of work.

ffhsanfran

How does $3 to $5 per race sound to you?

http://www.dserunners.com/

They have races almost every week around San Francisco. Come on down to SF Marina Green on the mother's day.

Sun May 12 Mother’s Day Marina Green 5K S/F at Yacht Rd. parking lot 1 block north of Marina Blvd. (Little Marina Green) KIDS RUN 9:45AM

Very casual. but you will get a finishers ribbon and snacks at the end. Great great group of all ages. run a very low key very lean volunteer based organization. Some races are open to kids (shorter distances).

Drop_it_Like_Its_Hawt

How does $3 to $5 per race sound to you?

http://www.dserunners.com/

They have races almost every week around San Francisco. Come on down to SF Marina Green on the mother's day.

Sun May 12 Mother’s Day Marina Green 5K S/F at Yacht Rd. parking lot 1 block north of Marina Blvd. (Little Marina Green) KIDS RUN 9:45AM

Very casual. but you will get a finishers ribbon and snacks at the end. Great great group of all ages. run a very low key very lean volunteer based organization. Some races are open to kids (shorter distances).

Thanks! This was just the kind of thing I was looking for! I guess I was shying away from runners clubs at first, because I'm really out of shape so far (I've lost 40+ lbs, but have 160 to go still, and can so far only manage to walk fast, rather than actually running the courses). I got self-conscious about it, you know? But if I'm going to make this a regular thing and really make a lifestyle change of it, I'll just need to get over that. I'll definitely try active.com as well.

As for the argument about paying/not paying, I have no intention of showing up unpaid to races, especially if the cost is for a charity. If there's a charity race, I want to be able to support that charity and not force the coordinators to have to hire extra medic crews/security/etc. for people that don't pay. I know it seems like a small deal to a single runner doing that, and yeah if it stayed as JUST one or two people doing it, it wouldn't kill their profit line - but I see it like littering. One person litters, it doesn't kill the environment. But that one person convincing a bunch MORE people over time that it's ok to do that, and you end up with a giant pile of trash. So, no.