Passing people in a 5k+

I have been told that you should pass on the left and to let the person know that you need to pass them by saying "on your left".

I have heard this also.

A good idea would be to gauge at the starting line the different paces (sometimes they are even labeled). If you feel you fall in the middle of the pack in terms of your pace, make your way to the middle of the waiting for the starting line, etc. Maybe you have been starting your races too far back if it is such an issue?

I don't think it's ever rude to pass someone in a RACE! Lol Good for you for being faster than others!

People show up to a 5K knowing that there are runners who are better than them and worse than them. It's not offensive to anyone! I did a couple 5Ks (and I sucked hardcore at them), but I was never, ever offended to be passed up. I was motivated actually! But really, it never offended me. I always tried to politely move out of their way so as not to be rude. I love that you're concerned and that you're so considerate though. That's wonderful.

I agree - I've run lots of races, and if it's crowded, it can become a free-for-all. The most important thing is to make sure you pass safely. I try to stay to the right and not block the trail so someone can pass me if they want, but in big races with a bunch of "Sunday runners", unfortunately people seem to just do their own thing, stop right in front of you, take up the whole trail with their buddies, etc... and you just have to weave around them the best you can.

The advice to guage where you should start in the pack where you expect to race is fine in theory, but I have yet to see a race where people lined up like that in reality - they're usually most concerned with the fastest runners (those with a chance at ebing in contention for awards) starting at the front. It would be nice if people did line up based on their pace, but there are too many people who don't pay any attention to those instructions when they are given...