FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FACTSHEET: Firefighters Ten Mile Road Race
GENERAL QUESTIONS
HOW MANY RUNNERS do you expect?
Over 1000 runners participated in the 2010 race. Over recent years, there has been a steady increase in the number of runners registered.
What if my tech SHIRT DOESN’T FIT?
Every effort is made to order enough tech shirts in the sizes that will match the runners in the field. Once shirts of a specific size run out, runners may opt for one of the remaining sizes. No new orders for shirts will be taken and sent out after the race.
Do I get a tech-shirt if I’m unable to participate in the race?
You can pick up your tech-shirt at race kit pickup venues. After race kit pickup has occurred, you can request a tech-shirt from those remaining by e-mailing us at 10mileroadrace%23org|racekits.
What’s the best way to KEEP CURRENT ON RACE DEVELOPMENTS?
Visit the race website at www.10mileroadrace.org and follow the newsletter [to which you can subscribe on the website].
What if I FAIL TO RETURN MY TIMING CHIP?
A disposable souvenir timing chip will be used for the 2011 race. You may keep or dispose of the chip as you choose. The chip is not reusable at future races. Instructions for using the chip will be provided to you at the time you receive your chip.
Is there a LOST & FOUND site where I can recover a lost personal item?
Personal items which are recovered during or following the race can be claimed by e-mailing us at 10mileroadrace%23org|contact.
If you are still at the race site when you discover that an item is missing, please check at the Columbus Hall where found items will be placed in a marked tub. The race organization is not responsible for recovery of lost items. We do, however, make a concerted effort to get found items back to their owners.
Can GUESTS of runners ATTEND the PASTA DINNER?
Pasta dinner tickets are available for the guests of registered runners at a price of $10. Guests are encouraged to purchase their tickets in association with runner registrations, making it easier for race organizers to accurately prepare for the number of people who will attend the pasta feed. Tickets will also be available at the door.
I’m with the media. Can I INTERVIEW the race winners?
Yes. Members of the media should contact us 10mileroadrace%23org|media to secure a media resource kit and ensure that they’re on a circulation list for the latest background, news and developments.
REGISTRATION
Are WALKERS, RACE-WALKERS, PETS and STROLLERS welcome?
Walkers and race-walkers are most welcome provided they are able to finish the course in less than two and a half hours. At the start of the race, walkers are expected to line up behind runners. Race-walkers are expected to position themselves in accordance with their anticipated pace in the race. There is no award category for walkers.
Strollers are permitted but are expected to line up behind the runners at the start of the race. Dogs and other pets are not permitted.
What if I am UNABLE TO COMPLETE THE RACE in the allotted two and a half hours?
The race course will be closed two and a half hours after the scheduled start of the race. If you have yet to finish when the course is closed, race services will no longer be available to you. Should you elect, at that time to complete the course, you may choose to do so. Keep in mind that the race is over and traffic controls are no longer in place.
Is there a MINIMUM AGE to run in the races?
There is no minimum age to register for the race.
Is there a LIMIT ON THE NUMBER OF RUNNERS?
There is no limit on the number of entries. The size of the field has grown significantly over recent years. Should this trend continue, it may be necessary to further split the start times of various events in order to reduce congestion and maximize everyone’s race experience.
How do I get CONFIRMATION that I’m registered?
If you registered on-line, you will receive an e-mail confirming your registration from the race registration website. A list of confirmed on-line registrants will be posted to the website and periodically updated.
If I am unable to run the race, is my REGISTRATION REFUNDABLE?
Is my race entry TRANSFERABLE to someone else should I be unable to run the race?
Is my race entry DEFERABLE to next year’s race in the event I am unable to run the race?
If you are unable to run, please contact us at 10mileroadrace%23org|registration and we’ll see if we can work something out for you.
I have not registered for the race. Can I run the course as an UNOFFICIAL PARTICIPANT?
No. Race support along the course, including medical services, runner refreshments and traffic safety management, is based on the exact number of registered participants. The presence of unregistered runners would compromise the adequacy of these critical services.
THE RACE
Are runners permitted to wear listening devices with HEAD/EAR PHONES?
Head or ear phones are permitted, but not recommended for safety and emergency reasons. If you wear head phones, we recommend that you keep the volume at a level that allows you to hear other runners, race officials, traffic, etc. Be aware of your surroundings. It may be necessary for emergency vehicles to use the race route and delays in their progress could seriously impact the health of another person [including a runner].
What is the WEATHER usually like on race day?
The average high on race day has been 19.5 degrees C, the average low has been 3.9 degrees C, and the average precipitation has been 1.3 mm.
What time do the RACES START?
Start time for individual runners is 9am.
Start time for relay runners is 9:10am, or 10 minutes after the start for individual runners, should that start be delayed.
Do you have START LINE CORRALS designated for runners at different paces?
There will be no corrals at the start line for runners based on pace. Please position yourself in the starting gate where your race pace will be roughly consistent with those around you.
Is there a CORRAL RESERVED FOR ELITE RUNNERS?
There will not be a corral reserved for elite runners. To avoid injury and ensure that elite runners are not obstructed from running to their potential, please do not toe the start line unless you legitimately expect to average a pace under six minutes per mile for the race.
What SERVICES will be provided at the FINISH LINE?
Services available to runners at the finish line will include fruit, water, beverages, massage and chiropractic services, medical response, portable toilets and limited showers in the Columbus Hall.
Will there be PACERS to help me run for a particular time?
Yes, pacers will be participating in the race in association with Fresh Air Experience. A pacer is a volunteer runner who carries a sign indicating the pace at which he/she will run the race. A pacer leads a group of runners who are interested in running at that pace. Pacers attempt to run at a steady pace, although they will slow down at aid stations to ensure that everyone in the pace group has an opportunity to hydrate.
Can a family member or friend cross the finish line with me?
No. For the safety of all participants, as well as spectators, non-participants are not permitted to enter any portion of the race course or finish line chute.
Can I ride a BIKE, use ROLLERSKATES or IN-LINE SKATES alongside the runners?
No. For safety reasons, and to optimize the race experience of all those involved, the race course is reserved for registered participants and race officials.
RACE COURSE
What is the race course like?
The race follows a flat, out-and-back course along the west shore of Lake Superior. The only small rise on the course is an overpass into Marina Park just as you approach the turnaround point in the race. To see a map of the route, click here.
Why did my GPS record a distance that is different from the official race course DISTANCE?
The race course is measured along the inside of all corners to reflect the shortest possible distance a runner could cover in completing the race without being disqualified. If your GPS recorded a longer distance, it probably includes wide corners, weaving through the field, and diversions to aid and relief stations.
How are the LIMITS OF THE RACE COURSE defined?
The race course is located entirely within the paved portion of the roadways over which it passes. That portion of the paved roadway on which runners are to proceed is identified by race officials and pylons.
COURSE SUPPORT
Is the race course CLOSED TO TRAFFIC?
Generally, the race course is closed to traffic from 8:30AM till 11:30AM, although runners are required to give way to emergency vehicles. Roads along the race course are temporarily closed for the safety and enjoyment of runners, spectators and volunteers. We very much appreciate the cooperation we receive from property owners, businesses and the travelling public with this necessary road closure.
How long is the COURSE OPEN?
Two and a half hours after the scheduled start of the race, the roads along which the race course is located will be reopened. There will be no traffic controls in place for runners after the two and a half hour limit.
Can I check and retrieve my SWEATS [gear bag] at the start/finish line?
The start and finish line are at the same location. Parking will be available close to the start/finish line. Runners can stow their warm-ups in their vehicle shortly before the race, and easily retrieve their sweats from their vehicle shortly after the finish.
Where are the AID STATIONS located? What products and services are available at these statiions?
Water and portable toilets are available at aid stations located every two miles along the course.
Are PORTABLE TOILETS provided, where are they located and who can use them?
Portable bathrooms will be located at every two miles along the course, including the start/finish line. They are available for runners, race officials and spectators. Some portable toilets will be reserved for runners. If you are not a registered runner, please give runners priority in the use of portable bathrooms.
Will there be MUSIC ON THE COURSE?
Stirring and inspirational music will be playing along the race route.
Will MASSAGE SERVICES be available to runners?
Massage services will be available to runners in the recovery area at the finish line.
Are SHOWERS available following the race?
Limited shower facilities are available in the Columbus Centre.
Should changing course and/or weather conditions alter the status of the race, how will this REVISED RACE STATUS be communicated runners during the race?
Coloured flags will be used to communicate course and weather conditions. Flags will be located at the start line and each of the aid stations. Runners are responsible for responding to the following signals and recommendations:
BLACK - Event cancelled. Extreme and dangerous conditions. Follow instructions of race officials.
RED - Potentially dangerous conditions. Timing of event is stopped and no awards will be given. Follow instructions of race officials.
YELLOW - Less than ideal conditions. Slow down and keep hydrated.
GREEN - Good conditions. Enjoy the event and stay alert for changes in conditions.
What if I NEED TO DROP OUT of the race?
If you suspect that you will not be able to finish, or your doctor has advised you against participating in this event, we suggest that you do not toe the starting line. It is the responsibility of entrants to ascertain whether they are fit and able to complete the race. It is also the responsibility of entrants to run the race in a manner that will not adversely affect their health.
If you want to drop out of the race and would like medical attention, communicate your need to the nearest race official and they will guide you to medical support.
Where will MEDICAL SUPPORT services be positioned during the race?
Emergency medical support will be located in the finish line area. Emergency vehicles will be poised should they be needed.
Will PHOTOGRAPHS of runners and the race be available?
Anyone photographing the race is invited to submit their digital photographs to race officials for distribution to runners and posting to the race website. Exemplary photos will be chosen for race promotion.
If you’d like to make your photos of the race available to runners and the race organization, we can be contacted at 10mileroadrace%23org|webmaster.
If you’re wondering if photos of you are available, please browse the photo gallery on the website at www.10mileroadrace.org.
RESULTS & AWARDS
How much of my entry supports the CASH PRIZES awarded to the top finishing elite athletes?
None. Cash prizes would not be possible if it weren't for the generous sponsorship of Half-Way Motors NISSAN.
Are prizes based on GUN TIME OR CHIP TIME?
All individual runners will receive both a gun time and a chip time for their race.
Awards for the top three overall males and the top three overall females are based on gun time. Gun time begins when the starting gun is fired and concludes when you cross the timing mat at the finish line with your timing chip.
Age-class awards will be based on chip time. Chip time begins when you cross the timing mat at the start line with your timing chip, and concludes when you cross the timing mat at the finish line with your timing chip.
Relay teams
How can I review the RESULTS OF THE RACE?
Race results will be posted at the awards venue, they will be published on the race website at www.10mileroadrace.org within 24 hours of race completion, and they will appear in their entirety in the Thunder Bay Chronicle Journal on the day following the race. Your individual result will be e-mailed to you immediately following the race.
What if my posted RACE RESULT IS INCORRECT?
Please approach any race official at the awards venue with your concern. Following the awards ceremony, please raise your concern by e-mailing us at 10mileroadrace%23org|awards.
What AWARDS are given FOR INDIVIDUAL RUNNERS?
The first three women to finish the race and the first three men who finish the race will receive the following cash prizes: First $1,000, Second $600, and Third $400.
The top male and female finisher from Northwest Ontario will each receive $250.
Age group awards will be given to the top three male and female finishers in each of the following age groups: 19 and under, 20-24. 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-79 and 80+.
The top professional firefighter receives an award, as does the top firefighter-in-training.
What AWARDS are given FOR TEAM RELAY RUNNERS?
Medals will be awarded to members of the first place team in each of five youth categories: Elementary Male, Elementary Female, Elementary Mixed, High School Mixed and Youth Open.
When and where is the AWARDS CEREMONY?
The awards ceremony is scheduled to begin at 12:00noon in the Columbus Centre located at 301 South May Street.
I was unable to attend the awards ceremony, and consequently, DID NOT RECEIVE MY AWARD. What should I do to secure my award?
E-mail us at 10mileroadrace%23org|awards and we’ll work out the best way to get your award to you.
RACE KIT PICK-UP
WHEN AND WHERE can I pick up my race kit?
Race kits for the 2012 race can be picked up at the following times and locations:
Thursday, May 17th, 5-8pm @ Halfway Motors, 940 Memorial Avenue
Sunday, May 20th, 4-7pm @ the Columbus Hall, 301 South May Street
No Race Day Kit Pickup
Can someone else pick up my race kit on my behalf?
Someone else can pick up your race kit for you. That person will be required to provide photo ID, a signature, and assume responsibility for the kit.
Can I have my race kit MAILED to me?
We are unable to mail race kits ahead of time. All race kits must be picked up at the assigned locations and times.
