
The Dos and Don'ts of Race Etiquette
Wondering what to do and not to do on race day? Avoid a race day faux pas with our guide to the dos and don'ts of race etiquette.
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1. Do be realistic about your predicted time. Be honest about your expected finish time on the entry form and make sure to start in the right pen. Faster runners get annoyed at being trapped behind and having to weave around runners racing at a slower pace. Yes, it's tempting to start near the front, especially at bigger races such as the Great North Run, but play fair and start further back if you're not super fast. This gives everyone a chance to get their PB.
2. Don't use another runner's race number in sold out races. This not only skews the results, but also means that if you have a medical emergency, race officials won't have your details.
3. Do move to the side if you need to slow down, walk or stop. There's no shame in taking a walk break, but be mindful of other runners. Don't suddenly slow down or stop with another runner directly behind you. If you're planning on run/walking an event, always stay at the side of the course or as directed by race officials.
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People who suddenly drop down to walking pace in the middle of the road/lane/course. Pull over to the side first! – Andrew via Facebook
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4. Don't run three or four abreast with your friends. Racing with a group of friends can be great fun and good motivation, but if you're running more than 2 abreast, you're blocking the course for other runners.
5. Don't automatically go to the first table at a water stop. Keep on running to the least crowded one to avoid congestion, take your water and keep on moving. If you can't discard your cup/bottle in one of the rubbish bins, then it's ok to discard it on the road, but try to toss it where it won't trip up another runner, or hit a spectator for that matter. If you really need to stop at a water station, make sure there isn't another runner behind you.
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People you overtake because they’re just that bit slower than you who then speed up to pass you and it starts all over again – Christine via Facebook
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6. Do thank race marshalls. Standing around in the rain handing out water, pointing runners in the right direction and collecting timing chips for hours is probably not all that much fun, but these guys give up their Sunday mornings to make sure you have a great race experience. Say a polite thank you to show your gratitude.
7. Do acknowledge supporters too. They don't know you, but they're rooting for you. Crowd support is often one of the best parts of the race. Always acknowledge cheering spectators with a smile or a thumbs up. They'll appreciate it.
8. Don't wear headphones. This one is up for debate. Many people see nothing wrong with this, others argue this makes runners less aware of their surroundings, cutting up and knocking in to other runners, and unable to hear race instructions. We'll leave this one to you, but always check the race rules first.
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People who insist on running slowly, three abreast, wearing Bernie Clifton ostrich costumes and the like and who wish to start at the head of the field. Have your fun run, but please do it behind everyone else – Dave via Facebook
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9. Don't spit where you might hit another runner. This seems to be a major race gripe for many runners. Sometimes spitting is unavoidable, so if you must, move to a part of the course where you can aim away from other runners and spectators.
10. Don't block the finish tunnel. You're not expected to keep on running when you finish, but do keep on walking to avoid congestion until you reach the chip collection point.
11. Don't use the course for a cool down. This is massively demoralising for other runners who are just finishing their race. Cheer finishers on from the sidelines by all means, but be respectful of their race and stay off the course.
12. Do be proud. You've just run your heart out and earned your medal. Wear it with pride.
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