What to Expect when Running Your First Race
First of all, expect to see a variety of competitors, volunteers, and spectators. Runners come from all walks of life. You will see trim elite runners, overweight runners, very young and very old runners, and even pregnant runners. There will be participants at all levels of training, and no matter how fast or slow you run, you will likely find someone else running at a similar pace.
Most races allow online registration prior to race day. And most allow packet pickup a day or two prior to the race. Take advantage of this so you have one less thing to worry about on race day. Your packet will usually include free literature and coupons, along with your race t-shirt and your bib number. Generally, only first time runners wear the t-shirt on race day, so feel free to wear something more comfortable to run in. And keep in mind that the bib number should be pinned to the front of your shirt, not the back. If it is a chip timed race, your time chip may also be included in your packet. But if it isn’t, don’t panic. Some races have a chip table near the start/finish line. The electronic chip attaches to your shoelace with a plastic tie and is usually removed with scissors by a volunteer at the finish line. The chip is activated when you step on a mat at the start/finish line.
Another benefit to picking up the race packet prior to race day is that you have a chance to scope out the race course if you wish, or get an idea of where you will need to park. Parking close to the start/finish line has its benefits, because you will have access to your vehicle and belongings. If parking is not available in close proximity to the race, there may be shuttles to and from the parking area. Regardless of your parking location, there is always the question of what to do with your car key. Some larger races may have a storage area for your belongings. If this option is not available, the best alternative is to tie your door key to your shoe lace, with it laying flat beneath the laces.
Hopefully you have no issues with port-o-potties. Many runners, especially new runners, find that they need to take multiple trips to the portable toilets prior to the start of the race. Often times, there will be a long line. Sometimes there is not. The good news, the toilets are normally freshly cleaned just prior to being dropped off at an event, so they are not always as disgusting as you might expect.
When the gun sounds and you start running, be aware of your pace. You will be tempted to start off much faster than your normal training runs. The thrill of running with a crowd will push you to run harder and faster. But if you run too fast during the beginning of the race, you’ll burn out before the finish line. If you do find that you need to slow down, or even stop to walk, be sure not to stop right in front of another runner. Be aware of the runners around you.
Even in a 5K race, there will likely be one or two water stations on the route. If you need water, pull to the side and take a cup from the outstretched hands of a volunteer. If you need to stop to drink the water, go ahead. In shorter races many runners just take a sip while running to wet their mouth and then dump the water on their head to cool off. Try to toss the cup to the side of the race route so runners behind you don’t have to run through an obstacle course of crushed cups.
As you begin to approach the finish line, expect some runners to kick it up a notch and use that last bit of energy for a fast finish. There will be a chute that you need to run through in a single file line. Be aware of runners coming up behind you as you get to the chute. While it’s not acceptable to actually push someone out of the way, passing up until the last moment is allowed and can even be expected.
Once you have finished the race, there will be tables of food for competitors to consume. A typical post race offering may be water, bananas, apples, granola bars, bagels. Often larger races even have beer!
Once you’ve had a snack and stretched, make your way back to the finish line to cheer on the slower runners. They will revel in the applause. And stick around for the awards. Often in smaller races, runners may be happily surprised to win an award because there were few in their age group. Awards are usually handed out to the top three runners in each age and gender bracket.
Running is a great source of exercise and a wonderful stress reliever, but it is an individual event. The pulsing atmosphere of a race is not to be missed. If you’ve been holding back from racing, because you think you are too slow, or too old, or too overweight, don’t hold back any longer. Sign up for a race. It will be an experience you’ll never forget.
