Helpful Race Day Hints~

CHOOSE CLOTHES WISELY~
Never wear brand new clothes - you never know if there's a hidden seam that may rub you the wrong way!

IMPORTANCE OF YOUR RACE PACKET~
The Race Packet includes your bib number, pins, and final race instructions. Race Instructions include parking, directions and last minute reminders. Your experience will be easier if you know what to expect ahead of time.

GET TO THE START LINE EARLY~
Be sure to allow plenty of time for parking and visiting the restroom. If the race start is 7:30 am, arrive at the site by 6:30am. Time flies and you don't want to miss the race start. Line up at the start according to your running pace. Five minute milers at the front and walkers in the back.

RACE DAY PACKET PICK UP~
If you did not pick up your race packet during the packet pickup hours, you will need to pick up your race number and/or Chip at the corresponding tables on race morning at the race site. Signage and race staff to will be there to direct you.

Race numbers should always go on the front using the safety pins supplied in your race packet.

CHIP SCORING~
If the race is Chip scored, attach the Chip to your shoe string using the supplied plastic tie. Volunteers will help you remove the borrowed Chip once you cross the finish line. If you forget to remove your chip a fee of $30 will be assessed post race.

EATING BEFORE A RACE~
If you are accustomed to eating before exercise, eat light approximately 2 hours before the race.

WHAT TO DRINK BEFORE, DURING and AFTER~
Start hydrating before the race, i.e. 8 to 12 ounces per hour and continue during and after the race. Take water at the water stop. It’s normal to walk and drink and then resume a running/jogging pace. After the race, drink sport drinks that can be used to replace the loss of electrolytes and carbohydrates.

RUNNING AND WALKING IN A RACE~
All fitness levels are welcomed. You may run, walk or do a run/walk combination.

It’s important not to try anything new on race day that you haven’t tried as part your regular exercise regime.

POST-RACE TIPS KEEP MOVING~
Cross the finish line and keep moving! Don’t just stop and stand there. Walk through the finish chute, have your chip removed from your shoe, and keep walking.

DRINK WATER~
Walk to the water table. Take some water and DRINK it!!! Continue walking as part of your cool-down for at least 15 minutes. Movement keeps your muscles contracting and assists blood circulation and will reduce post-race muscle soreness.

STRETCH~
After you have adequately cooled-down by walking, remember to stretch. Your legs will thank you!

REGISTER FOR ANOTHER RACE~
Even after a successful race, it is common for runners to feel a bit down upon completion. Some runners feel lost after completing a goal. The best way to avoid this phenomenon is to set another goal. Register for another race, or try a race of a different distance, or a destination race. There is a lot of variety available to keep you interested for a VERY long time!

Information obtained from the Track Shack, Orlando, Florida, "Runner 101".