Have a question? Email us at runrmec@yahoo.com
Q: Can I walk this event?
A: Yes. If you are interested in walking you are welcome to participate in the 5k. This will allow ample time for you to finish the event without the pressure of a cut-off time, and still allow you to experience the beauty of Ford's Colony.
Q: Can I train at Ford's Colony for this event?
A: No. Runners are not allowed on the course with the exception of race day. Please respect the policies of Ford's Colony and do not run on the cart paths.
Q: Where can I pick up my race packet?
A: There are two opportunities to pick up your race packet. 1) Friday at Dental Care Center at 3769 Sunset Ave from noon to 6:30 pm; 2) Saturday morning before the races begin at Ford's Colony Rocky Mount. It is strongly recommended to pick up your packet Friday if possible.
Q: Can I register the morning of the race?
A: This depends. We are expecting another sell out, so registering on race day is a big gamble. Last year there were about a dozen 10k spots still available on race day, and the 5k sold out the week before. If you register at the event your shirt size will not be guaranteed. We anticipate this will be a popular event, so early registration is encouraged.
Q: Do the 5k and 10k start together?
A: Not exactly. The 10k will start at 8:15 a.m. The 5k will line up immediately after, and start exactly five minutes later at 8:20.
Q: Can I run on the grass?
A: No. Runners must remain on the cart paths at all time. Even when you approach a turn in the cart path, do not feel tempted to cut a corner and step on the grass. This shortens the race course, and violates our agreement with Ford's Colony.
Q: Will my GPS work at Ford's Colony?
A: Probably, but for virtually the entire race you run beside trees, and frequently the path takes you through the woods. In addition there are many gentle zig zags, and a GPS may not accurately pick up every detail. We will have mile markers on the course. We recommend leaving the GPS at home.
Q: Will the course be clearly marked?
A: Yes. This will likely be the easiest course to follow that you have ever done. In the few places where the path forks or crosses a road, there will be signs and/or a volunteer directing runners. We will also have mile makers for both races.
Q: What is the terrain like?
A: If you are not familiar with Rocky Mount, we are a very flat town. Ford's Colony actually found a few gentle rolling hills on the land where they laid out the golf course. It is "hilly" for Rocky Mount, but flat by virtually everyone else's standards. Running on a new paved cart path will ensure safe footing the entire race.
Q: Will there be food after the race?
A: Yes. Runners will have drinks and snacks after the finish. All runners will congregate behind the club house and enjoy Chick-fila-A, cookies, chips, and more.
Q: Where do I park?
A: Due to the size of our event, parking is very limited at Ford's Colony. We have a very detailed strategy to park cars, while also leaving space for the golfers later that morning. Volunteers will direct you when you arrive. Please follow their instructions. You are strongly encouraged to arrive early to help with the parking situation.
Q: Is this event chip timed?
A: Yes! Finish Strong LLC from Raleigh will provide chip timing for both races. This will help to ensure a safe start without the need to elbow your way to the front.
Q: Will there be starting corrals?
A: Yes. We will use a "mini wave start" to avoid congestion when entering the paths. We used this same approach in 2008 and it worked very well. It ensures a safe start and because of our chip timing, does not impact the results.
Q: What happens if it rains?
A: We will still run in the rain. If there is lightning we will delay the start. If we do not foresee a large enough time window to execute the race, the race will be canceled. A rain date will be considered, but it is not guaranteed. Rescheduling is very challenging because of several fixed costs that are non refundable.
Q: Will there be awards?
A: Yes. We will have awards for both first-third overall Male and Female, first place Master's winners, and first-third for age groups. In addition, $100 gift cards can be earned for the first runners to obtain time bonuses!
Q: Are their kid's races?
A: Yes. New in 2009, we have added a 1.5 mile Family Fun Run. We need to work out the exact details of the course, but we will run a kid's race before the start of the 10k and 5k.
Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: No. Pets are not allowed at Ford's Colony.
