FAQ's
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need to pre-register?
Yes! We do not allow day-of- race registration for the 5K. Pre-registration is required – and must be done before 11:59 pm on June 14, 2024. The 5K race is limited to 1,500 participants. If it fills up prior to June 14th, registration will close. Your best bet is to register early!
Is there a limit to the number of participants?
The 5K is limited to 1,500 participants. We expect the race to sell out and encourage early registration.
I can’t remember if I registered. Can you check for me?
Please take advantage of RunSignUp’s services to confirm that you’re registered here. If you spot an error in your entry, please contact us at run4als@gmail.com.
How do I get to the race?
The race is held at Hopkinton High School, 90 Hayden Rowe Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748. Race volunteers will direct you to parking areas.
Is parking available?
Yes. However, due to the size of the event, we expect parking to be limited. We encourage carpooling and advise you to arrive early. We have satellite parking lots, which could involve walking as much as ½ mile to the starting line. Make sure to allow enough time to park, register, and warm up, if you are planning to run the race. If you would like to ride your bike to the event, please note that we have a secure bicycle parking area available.
Will I get a t-shirt?
Race shirts are guaranteed to all 5K participants who register by May 29th and will be provided to runners who register after that date only if available. All Kids’ Fun Color Run participants receive white t-shirts, sunglasses, and a bandana. Please note that while we will do our best to accommodate all participants, we cannot guarantee that you will get the size t-shirt you request.
How do I pick up my race bib?
There are 3 options for picking up your race bib:
Locations will be available soon.
Can I pre-register my child for the Kids’ Color Run?
Yes. The maximum number of participants is 140. We encourage you to register early! We will allow race day registration if the maximum number of 140 has not been reached. Please note that the registration fee is $25 and increases to $30 on May 29, 2024.
Will the race provide me my net time?
Yes, we will be using a starting mat, which ensures net timing. In addition, we are using the B-Tag system to expedite the timing and results process. The B-Tag is affixed to your race bib and does not need to be returned.
Can I attend the Family Fun Day if I’m not running in the race?
The Family Fun Day is open to all. While we do not charge a set fee to attend the Family Fun Day events, we encourage and appreciate donations to The Angel Fund.
Can I push a baby jogger in the race?
Our official answer is no due to safety concerns. Because the race is a USATF-NE sanctioned event, baby joggers, bicycles, inline skates, etc. are not permitted. That said, we are a family-friendly event and want to be welcoming to participants pushing baby joggers. For safety reasons, we require people with baby joggers to start at the back of the pack and be extremely cautious throughout the race.
Are dogs allowed at the event?
While we love dogs, they are not permitted at our event. The Hopkinton Public Schools, like many school districts, do not allow dogs on school property for health reasons. In addition, due to the size of our race, dogs pose a potential safety hazard to runners and walkers on the course.
Can I walk in the race?
Yes, walkers are welcome to participate.
What happens if there is inclement weather?
The race is held rain or shine. The Family Fun Day, the awards ceremony, and all post race activities will be held indoors if necessary.
What if I register and cannot attend?
There are no refunds. In addition, t-shirts cannot be held for registered runners/walkers who are unable to participate. Bib numbers are also non-transferable, so please don’t sell or give your number to someone as it may interfere with age group results.
Can I volunteer for the race?
Yes! Many hands are needed to pull off this event. Different volunteer opportunities are available starting days before the race or during the event. There are many opportunities to volunteer. Please visit our Volunteer page and submit your information on the contact form there.
I volunteered for the race. When will I receive my volunteer assignment?
Volunteer assignments will be sent via email on the Tuesday and Wednesday preceding race day. If you do not receive your volunteer assignment by Wednesday, June 12th, please email us at run4als@gmail.com.
How can I donate or raise money?
We have created a fun and easy way to raise money or donate. Anyone can set up a fundraising page here. All donations go directly to The Angel Fund, whose mission is to support research and scientific investigations at UMass Chan Medical School, internationally recognized for its ground-breaking work in the fight against this devastating illness. Visit our fundraising page for more details.
How do I train for my first 5K?
Many 5K training plans for beginners can be found online. Hal Higdon, a respected running expert and coach, has a training plan on his website. Or visit Runner’s World for their training plans.
