Additional Information
Not only will you be participating in a fun run/walk along a scenic riverside course in DC on the 4th of July weekend, you will be helping to make a difference in many lives. Although we would like to think that the government can provide everything for wounded servicemen and women returning from war, many rely on the Semper Fi Fund in order to have family members nearby while they recuperate in the hospital, as well as to help them get back on their feet financially when they return home.
$18 registration fee + $25 donation to the Semper Fi Fund
Who: All runners and walkers are welcome
What: 5K run/walk to benefit the Semper Fi Fund
When: Saturday, July 2, 2011 - 8:00 am (rain or shine)
Where: Anacostia Park, Washington D.C.
Why: To raise money and awareness for the Semper Fi Fund, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides crucial medical and financial assistance to wounded U.S. servicemen and women returning from Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as to their families.
Packet Pick-Up: We are offering packet pick-up on Friday, July 1 at the Pacers Running Store in Arlington. This means you won't have to arrive as early (more zzz's) and helps us ensure we can start promptly.
Start Time: Race day packet pick-up will begin on Saturday at 6:15 am. Please note that road closures will begin at 7:30 am for our race (which will prevent you from driving to the start/finish area). The 5K will begin promptly at 8:00 am. Unfortunately, National Park Service regulations prohibit registration on race day.
T-Shirts are available for an additional $5 during online registration.
Directions: Please visit Google Maps for driving directions to Anacostia Drive, Washington D.C. The start/finish area will be at the northern end of the park adjacent to the Skating Pavilion.
FREE Parking is plentiful at Anacostia Park. Please park your vehicle at the northern end of the park near the Skating Pavilion; please note that you must arrive before 7:30 am. The closest Metro Station (Navy Yard) is about a 45 minute walk from the start/finish area.
Weather: We are planning on clear skies and sunny weather for race day. As it will likely be warm and slightly humid (even at 8:00 am in the morning), remember to hydrate and bring sunscreen.
Timing: Based on feedback from 2010, our event will be professionally timed this year by raceDC Timing using the ChronoTrack system (D-tag). These are disposable tags that attach to your shoes and automatically record your time as you cross the finish. No more need for tear off bibs…hello 21st Century!
Strollers & Children are welcome to participate! Our event will take place on a closed course (thanks to the U.S. Park Police). If you would like to run with a stroller, we have a few requirements: you must start in the back, you may not weave through packs of runners, and you must always yield the right of way to other runners. As long as you drive responsibly you shouldn’t have a problem bringing junior along for the ride. Note: Children in strollers do not need to register. In addition, do not have your child wear a timing tag if he/she is catching a ride. That tag will read that your two-year old ran your speedy time and can lead to tears from young children who rightfully won their age group.
Bag Drop: We will have a bag drop available, which will be monitored by volunteers. Unfortunately we cannot be responsible for any valuables that are lost or stolen. Leave items at your own risk. Items not picked up by designated time will be taken to the Pacers store in Arlington and may be retrieved there. Items left after seven days will be tossed or donated to charity.
Dogs: We are in dialogue with the National Park Service to see if leashed dogs may participate. Stay tuned…
Bathrooms: Restrooms will be open and available near the start/finish area.
Water Stop: We will have a water stop at the 1/2 way mark that will be manned by volunteers.
Headphones: Our RRCA insurance policy dictates that we cannot sanction headphone use during our event. Runners who choose to run while wearing headphones must assume full responsibility for their use. They must be able to hear all instructions and directions given by race course personnel and be aware of their surroundings at all time.We understand that many runners feel that running with their music helps them stay focused and motivated - the course will be closed to vehicular traffic, so it's ultimately your decision.
Post-Race Festivities: We will have music playing before, during, and after the race. Water, Gatorade, fruit, and other light snacks will be available at the finish line. There will be an awards presentation at approximately 8:45 am.
Volunteers: Our 5K's success rests squarely with our volunteers. If you would like to help out on July 2, click hereto sign up! Every volunteer will receive a Semper Fi 5K t-shirt!
OK, that's a lot of information to digest. Hopefully we've answered all of your questions. If not, please feel free to email us: info@semperfi5k.com
See you on July 2nd!!