Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) by Girls on the Run 5K Race Participants:

How do I register?

Our website, www.gotrcentralillinois.org has a participant registration link. You can also register by visiting https://secure.getmeregistered.com/get_information.php?event_id=5891

Where when is packet pick up?

Friday, May 18th from 4-6pm at Girls on the Run of Central Illinois’s Office (907 Clocktower Drive, Springfield, IL; 217-726-9808).

Also available on site the day of the race: Saturday, May 19th from 8:30am – 9:30am at Washington Park.

What is the course location/route/finish line:  Is there a map available?

The race is an out-and-back course which starts on the south side of the park near the pavilion and follows the road to the east.  A map identifying the course and other race-related activities is available for download from our website.

Where is event parking?

Parking within the park will be very limited and car access will be shutdown at approximately 8am.  Participants should park throughout the neighborhoods on the south side of the park.

Will the race be timed?  Will prizes be awarded?  Will race results be posted?

This Girls on the Run 5K is a non-competitive event.  The focus of the race is for our program participants, their families and our community runners to successfully complete the 5K distance with a smile on their faces. For runners interested in estimating their 5K time, a race clock will be available at the finish line.  No prizes will be awarded or race results posted.  However, every finisher will receive a Girls on the Run 5K finisher’s medal.

How many races will be held?  Will there be a staggered start?

All runners/walkers will participate in the same 5K event.  Faster runners should position themselves close to the start line, but be cognizant that the race includes many inexperienced young runners who may not be fully aware of race etiquette.  Please remember…this event is not intended to be a competitive road race.

My daughter is a spring 2012 Girls on the Run program participant.  Does she need to register?  Should she pickup her race bag at packet pickup?  If I want to run with her, do I need to register?

Program participants are automatically registered for the 5K event.  Her coach will provide her with instructions regarding the event.  Program participants will be given their race bag the morning of the event and don’t need to attend Friday’s packet pickup.

Family or community members who want to run in the 5K must register for the race and pay the applicable race fee.  Only runners with race bibs will be allowed to run.

Can I register the day of the race?

Yes.  The cost is $35 (cash or check payments only).  A t-shirt is not guaranteed for participants who register after May 4th.

I am a spring 2012 Girls on the Run program coach or running buddy, do I need to register and pickup my packet?

No. Coaches/Running Buddies are automatically registered for the 5K event.  Your race bib and bag will be available the morning of the event at your school site meeting place.

Is there a check-in time?

The 5K Race starts at 10am.  Race events such as face painting, hair painting, etc. begin at 8:30am.  Warm up is scheduled for 9:30am.

What other activities will be a part of this race event?

The race festival area will include the following activities free of charge:

  • Happy Hair Station
  • Face Painting Station
  • Photo Op Area
  • Pre-Race Warm-up
  • Post-Race Dance Party

The Race Festival area will include the following activities that will charge additional fees:

  • Craft/Activity Tent
  • Merchandising tent with GOTR clothing and other items available for purchase

Will there be water stations on the race course?

Yes.  The course will have two water stations.

Can I run with a baby jogger (stroller), dog or headphones?

No.  For the safety of all participants strollers and dogs are not allowed on the race course.  Please leave pets and headphones at home.

If I am not running, where can I cheer the participants?

Cheering is encouraged anywhere along the side of the race course.

Will refreshments be available?

Post-race snacks will be available for race/walk participants. No refreshments will be available for purchase.

Are there changing rooms or other on-site amenities?

Washington Park is your typical older public park environment.  A small restroom facility is on-site.  Port-a-Potties will also be on-site.

What is the weather policy for the event?

The event will be held as scheduled except in the case of severe weather (lightening or dangerous thunderstorms).