Have a question? Email us at runrmec@yahoo.com
Q: Is this the same race as the Ford's Colony 5k and 10k?
A: Yes. This is the same event that was run in 2008 and 2009. The golf course property has transferred ownership, and is now operating under the new name, The Golf Club at Rocky Mount. You can still expect to see one of the most beautiful and well kept golf courses in the southeast.
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 The Golf Club at Rocky Mount.
Q: What is the Pack/Troop Challenge about?
A: This year's race will benefit Scouting in Nash and Edgecombe counties. Each Pack and Troop (Unit) in the area are trying to encourage people to register for the race. The Units who get the most people to register will win a cash contribution for their group. Learn more on Beneficiary Page.
Q: Do the 5k and 10k start together?
A: No. 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 train at The Golf Course at Rocky Mount?
A: No. Runners are not allowed on the course with the exception of race day. Please respect the policies of The Golf Club at Rocky Mount 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 location TBD; 2) Saturday morning before the races begin at The Golf Club at Rocky Mount. It is strongly recommended to pick up your packet Friday if possible.
Q: Can I register the morning of the race?
A: Very doubtful! Because of the nature of the race course, we need to cap the race. We are expecting another sell out, so registering on race day is not likely.
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 The Golf Club at Rocky Mount.
Q: Will my GPS work at at the Golf Club of Rocky Mount?
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. The Golf Club at Rocky Mount 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. (Note: 0.2 miles of the 5k is on gravel.)
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-fil-A, cookies, chips, and more.
Q: Where do I park?
A: Due to the size of our event, parking is very limited at The Golf Club at Rocky Mount. We have a strategy to park cars that has worked well in the past. 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! FS Series 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 our first two years 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. Rescheduling is not possible 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 from Raleigh Running Outfitters can be earned for course records!
Q: Are there kids' races?
A: Yes. We will have a 1.5 mile Family Fun Run beginning at 7:45 am. All finishers under the age of 13 will receive a special award for completing the race.
Q: Can I run with my dog?
A: No. Dogs are not allowed on the golf course.
Q: Can I run with my cat?
A: Sure! We would love to see you try. Just keep them out of the sand traps!
