You're a runner. You've crossed countless finish lines and you think it would be cool to put on your own 5k race. But how do you begin to organize a 5K? There are a million things a race director must keep in mind when planning and organizing a road race. But three rules stick out above the rest.
Rule No. 1: Safety First
Rule No. 2: Don't Lose Money
Rule No. 3: Have Fun
With that said, let this be your step-by-step guide to calling yourself a race director. This will direct you throw everything you need to know about organizing a 5K. We'll go through the details on how to follow the three golden rules above, as well as discuss the process from inception to finish line and beyond.
Choose Your Event, Location and Date
Before you start planning your first event, you need to decide what type of race you can manage, where, and when it should take place. Follow these tips to make sure you've taken all measures into consideration. Read More...
Set Goals, Get Permission, Plan the Logistics
The most important things to think about when organizing a race is setting realistic goals, putting safety first, and getting permission to host your event. Read More...
Build a Budget, Find Sponsors, Promote Your Race
Rule No. 2: Don't lose money at your race. Make sure your budget is in place and you know how to get sponsors and participants with this guide to race budgeting, sponsorship and promotions. Read More...
Day of Your Race
It's the big day. You're the race director, and you're nervous. How can you make sure the day goes smoothly? Follow these tips from long-time race director Dave McGillivray. Read More...
After the Event To-Do List
The race might be over for the participants, but you still have some work cut out for you. Follow this advice to make sure you have everything covered once the athletes have gone home. Read More...
Race Directors: Your Race-Day Checklist
Make sure you're organized at your event with this race-day checklist for first-time race directors. Read More...
Smooth Registration Equals Good Results
Follow these few simple suggestions to run an organized registration and avoid the pitfalls of inaccurate results. Read More...
Choose Your Event, Location, Date
Before you start planning your first event, you need to decide what type of race you can manage, where, and when it should take place. Follow these tips to make sure you've taken all measures into consideration. Read More...
Get ACTIVE on the Go
Couch to 5K®
The best way to get new runners off the couch and across the finish line of their first 5K.
Available for iOS | Android
Discuss This Article