Frequently Asked Questions

 

What is Safe Routes to School?

The Takoma Safe Routes to School program aims to encourage students to walk to school regularly and safely. In addition to providing built in exercise for the students, this will reduce traffic congestion and emissions around schools.

Safe Routes also finances infrastructure projects in the City of Takoma Park such as improving sidewalks and intersections..

More information here: http://www.takomaparkmd.gov/safe_routes

Why is the race being held?

The race is being held to promote Safe Routes to School, to spend a great day with the community enjoying a family friendly, healthy activity and to raise funds for the Parent Teacher Associations at four area elementary schools: Takoma Park ES, Piney Branch ES, Rolling Terrace ES, East Silver Spring ES and Takoma Park Middle School.  The funds are used for programs that focus on walking for health and bike/pedestrian safety. 

 

What time does the race start?

The race date is Sunday, May 6, 2012

The 5K run/walk starts at 8:00am.

The 1 mile run starts at 9:00am.

The ¼ mile youth run starts at 9:15am.

 Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the race. 

Where is the race?

The race starts in front of the Takoma Park Community Center - 7500 Maple Avenue, Takoma Park, MD.  Here is a map of the course.

Are there any road closures on race day?

Race closures on race day include Maple Avenue between Philadelphia Avenue and Sligo Creek Parkway from 7:50 am until 10:15 am.  Sligo Creek Parkway will close at 8:00 am instead of 9:00 am

Who can participate?

All runners and walkers are welcome! 

Is the course certified?

The course is a USAFT certified 5K. 

Is the race timed?

The 5K run is timed using chip timing worn on shoes.  All other races (5K walk, mile run, and ¼ mile run) are untimed.  Chip timers will be given out on race day starting at 7:00 am.  Arrive at least 30 minutes early for chip timer distribution.

Can I run with my child in a stroller?

Unfortunately, this is not allowed.  MCRRC (Montgomery County Road Runners) does not permit strollers, baby joggers, skates, bikes or pets in the race.

Who is MCRRC?

MCRRC , Montgomery County Road Runners Club, provides race management services including registration and timing.

How do I register for the race?

You can register here. Online registration closes on Thursday, May 3, at 7:00 am. Mail registration forms by April 23, 2012.

How much does it cost to participate in the race?

Early Bird registration before April 23:

  •    5K Adults                                              $20
  •    5K 18 and under                                   $15
  •    1M Fun Run (any age)                          $10
  •    ¼ mile Youth Run (8 and under)           $5

 

After April 23:

  •    5K Adults                                             $25
  •    5K 18 and under                                  $20
  •    1M Fun Run (any age)                         $12
  •    ¼ mile Youth Run (8 and under)         $7

 

Do I get a t-shirt?

Yes! Every participant in the race will receive a 5K t-shirt when they pick up their packet.  Sizes for t-shirts are guaranteed with early bird registration, before April 23.  Choose from youth sizes Small and Medium and adult sizes Small, Medium, Large and X Large. 

Where do I pick up my packet?

Packet pick-up is on Saturday, May 5th from 2:00 to 6:00 pm at City Sports in Silver Spring.  The address for City Sports is 8510 Fenton St., Silver Spring, MD.  Packet pick-up on race day is at the Takoma Park Community Center beginning at 7:00 am. 

Please pick up on Saturday if possible.  Transponders (chip timers) will be available starting at 7:00 am on race day!

What prizes will be awarded?

Medals will be awarded before 10:00 am in the following categories:

  •   Top Male and Top Female overall
  •   Top boy and girl ages 11-14
  •   Top boy and girl ages 10 and under

Will the be food?

After the race, refreshments will be provided thanks to generous donations from local grocery stores and restaurants. 

How do I volunteer?

You can contact our volunteer coordinator, Kristie Rupper, at (301) 461-6504 or send an email to krupper (at) me.com.

What are the volunteer opportunities?

  • Registration – Volunteers will register new runners and organize packets for new runners.  Packets include t-shirts, promotional materials and race bibs.  Accurate record keeping is required.  NEW REGISTRANTS
  • Packet Pick-up – Volunteers organize packets for pick up by runners.  Packets include t -shirts, promotional materials and race bibs.  Accurate record keeping is required.  PRE- REGISTERED RUNNERS.
  • Refreshments: Volunteers set up the refreshments for post race activities and maintain order during post race.
  • Start/Finish: Volunteers assist the Montgomery County Road Runners with the operation of the start and finish line. On site training provided.
  • Course Marshals: Course Marshals will be stationed on the course to direct runners and report issues.
  • Fun Run/Youth Run: Volunteers will assist Fun Run/Youth Run Director with corralling participants, starting and finishing the races and handing out prizes.
  •  Clean Up: Volunteers will make sure the Community Center and environs are left in good condition