FAQ
I want to run, and my kids want to bike. Can we do both?
You bet! The running and biking events will occur at different times with plenty of time in between, so your family can participate in both events.
Will this race be chip-timed?
We’d love to provide that level of accuracy, but our permit with the Park and Rec Board does not allow for chip timing. We will have a clock at the finish line, though there will be a little give and take, based on when you pass the starting line. This is a fun run and is not USATF certified. If you’re timing yourself with a GPS-based phone or watch, there may be slight variability in the final distance.
What’s with the color orange in the logo? Aren’t Avail’s colors blue and yellow?
In the inaugural year of the Challenge 5K, a 3 year old son of members on our planning committee died suddenly a month before the event. Orange is his brother’s favorite color, so orange balloons were hung to honor him and encourage those who love him in the days following his death. Thus, the orange balloon was incorporated in our logo.
What will participants receive with their registration?
All pre-registered participants will receive an official "Avail Academy Challenge" t-shirt with registration. We cannot guarantee that t-shirts will be available for registrations after Wednesday, September 19th, so please register in advance.
That’s a lot of people to have running on one path. What can the runners and walkers do to alleviate the congestion?
So true, and thanks for asking! J Participants will be encouraged to start in corrals, according to their anticipated finish times. This year, we’re starting in the parking lot to avoid congestion on the trail at the start. While you’re running or walking, keep your eyes up to watch for folks you may meet who are not part of the race. And in the spirit of fun and community-building, keep the safety of all on the trail as a top priority!
I want to walk in the 5K, but I also want to watch my kids pass the finish line. How can I do both?
If you’d prefer to be at the finish line, you may delay your starting time for the walk until after the runners are finished. You’ll still register as a walker and receive a shirt, but your time won’t be recorded according to the race clock.
Can I run while pushing my child(ren) in a stroller? And if so, do I need to pay extra?
You certainly can. And there is no additional charge for your additional workout. We recommend that you start near the back of the pack to avoid contact with the ambitious runners at the front, just to be safe.
What is included in the post-race programming?
Awards, food, a bouncy house, games for kids, a 50 yard dash for kiddos, more food, biking around the lake, and loads of fun and community!
May I wear headphones while I run?
Headphones are permitted in the race, but we will be sharing the course with the general public. Please be respectful, since we are the school’s ambassadors. (And we think you’ll have a more enjoyable race listening to the kids running near you!)
Will there be a bag check at registration?
Unfortunately, no.
What about parking?
A pay lot is located northeast of the Bandshell. (The pay lot to the west of the Bandshell will be unavailable.) On-street parking is available all the way around the Lake. An additional pay lot is located on Roseway Road on the East side of the Lake (near the Rose Garden). Note that Lake Harriet Parkway is a one-way street directed counterclockwise around the lake, so plan your driving accordingly.
Any further questions?
Please connect race directors - Lisa and Matt DeKam mldekam@hotmail.com or Angela Byers angelablankespoor@hotmail.com.
