FAQS
Q: What might be different in 2021 compared to previous years?
We are offering BOTH a LIVE/IN-PERSON and VIRTUAL event. The LIVE/IN-PERSON participant limit is 650. Once this cap has been reached, no additional registrations will be accepted. The VIRTUAL event participant limit has been set at 100, and registration will remain open until 10/15 [subject to change].
If COVID-19 conditions call for the LIVE/IN-PERSON event to be cancelled, all those who registered for the LIVE/IN-PERSON event will automatically be converted to the VIRTUAL event and will receive revised instructions for completing the event. Neither event will qualify for a refund or deferment.
Distribution of race packets, finishers’ items, and/or refreshments will be modified to protect the health and safety of our participants, public safety members, and volunteers. This is our top priority! We will remain in constant communication with the State of North Carolina and Dare County, and we will adhere to all COVID-19 recommendations. Participants will receive communication prior to the event that reflects our planned safety protocols, which could change as they are dependent upon local and state guidelines.
Q: How do I register?
Online registration for the 25th Running of the Annual ADVICE 5K Turkey Trot will open on Tuesday, September 7th (6 am EDT) via RunSignup.
Q: What happens if the 2021 LIVE/IN-PERSON event has to be cancelled after I’ve registered – will I be able to obtain a refund?
Registrations are NOT refundable. As we launch registration, we begin placing orders and making purchases for the event. If the LIVE/IN-PERSON event is cancelled, those registered will automatically be converted to the VIRTUAL EVENT and will receive revised instructions for completing the event.
Q: What is a VIRTUAL EVENT?
If you choose to participate VIRTUALLY, choose your own place and run your own race! This Thanksgiving, run or walk your 5K in your own place -- wobble around your neighborhood, trot at your local park or if you like, take those kicks for a spin on your treadmill – it’s up to you! Check out the details about the VIRTUAL EVENT here and on our registration page on RunSignup. Virtual registrations are limited to 100 and are non-refundable.
Q: How will I know if I’m registered?
A confirmation email will be sent to the email address used for registration. Unfortunately, we know that spam filters often erase or block the email confirmation that will be sent to you. To avoid this, please make sure that we're on your "allowed senders" list so that your spam filter will not block essential information about the event. Our email is: advice5kturkeytrot@gmail.com
Q: When and where do I pick up my race packet?
Packet Pick Up for the LIVE/IN-PERSON event is Wednesday, November 24th, 1 PM to 5 PM during our Community Concert on the Town of Duck Green. There is NO RACE DAY PICKUP.
Q: Can someone else pick up my packet?
We have always encouraged family & friend groups and FLOCKS with 5 or more members, to request pre-assembly of packets. In 2021, appointing one individual per group/family may be needed if we must reduce the total number of people present at Packet Pick-Up.
Q: If I am participating in the virtual event, how do I get my packet?
Your packet will be mailed to you in early November! When you register for the VIRTUAL event, you must provide a USPS-recognized domestic shipping address. The cost of registration includes a single attempt at shipping your packet. For our Trotters living in Canada, please contact our Race Director to make special arrangements!
Q: I’m not registered! Can I sign up the at packet pickup?
Sorry...Once the race fills to capacity there will be no “last minute” or “race day” registrations.
Q: I’m registered…now what?
We’re out there on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and You Tube – so join the conversations! Watch for our hashtags so everyone can enjoy the pics and posts! Participant information, instructions, and status updates will be sent via email.
Q: What time does the in-person race start?
The ADVICE 5K will begin at 9 AM SHARP! Important race announcements, introductions, and the playing of our National Anthem will begin at 8:30 AM. Arrive at the staging area located at the Scarborough Lane Shoppes no later than 8:30 AM, with the “CALL TO THE POST” at 8:45 AM. Staging will happen in the parking area – do not congregate on Scarborough Lane!
Q: Does the ADVICE 5K use starting corrals?
In 2021 we are expanding START staging to allow for adequate social distancing and to move safely and smoothly to Scarborough Lane. At registration you will be asked to identify as a “HARE” (fast runner), followed by “TORTOISE” (9 slow runner), “WOBBLER” (walker), and then at the rear, “WHEELS & WAGS” (kiddos and doggos in tow). You will line up accordingly.
Q: Is the Annual ADVICE 5K Turkey Trot chip timed?
NO -- chip timing is not used for our event -- in fact, we don’t even score the race! If you are a competitive runner, please be aware that this is a non-sanctioned event. As we’ve said for over 2 decades, “if you want to know your time, look at your watch!”
Q: Getting to the Race…and where to park?
Take Highway 12 (Duck Road) to Duck. ALL participants MUST stage in the rear of the Scarborough Lane Shoppes, located at 1171 Duck Road. Please note that there is NO PARKING (street or lot) at the staging location. We encourage participants to bike or walk to the race if possible. Carpool if need be; some (not all) shopping areas may have available parking on Thanksgiving Morning. Plan to arrive no later than 8:30 AM; expect restricted and/or no vehicular access to Scarborough Lane as early as 7:30 AM.
Q: Can I walk in the Annual ADVICE 5K Turkey Trot?
Of course, we have lots of walkers!! All participants should be physically able to finish and be off the course within 60 minutes (that’s a 20-minute mile or faster).
Q: May I bring my dog?
YES -- but controlled and on a short leash and at the back of the pack in the “WHEELS AND WAGS” corral. These guidelines are to assure everyone's safety -- dogs pose a threat on a tight course and some runners are fearful. We prefer dogs NOT ENTER the finish chute because it is tight, so, if possible, plan on handing it off to a family member when signaled.
Q: Are baby strollers allowed?
Given the constraints of the course, if you have a young one in a jogging stroller you MUST line up at the back of the pack in the “WHEELS AND WAGS” corral. Please stay alert as the roads are not closed to all vehicular traffic.
Q: Is skating or cycling allowed?
NO -- for the safety of others, rollerblades, skateboards, roller skates, scooters, and bicycles are not allowed in the Annual ADVICE 5K Turkey Trot.
Q: What if it rains or snows?
“There’s no such thing as bad weather…only bad clothing.” Only severe weather conditions will warrant delaying or canceling the event. Our paramount concern is the safety of our participants.
Q: Is there water on the course?
NOT THIS YEAR -- runners and walkers will need to carry their own hydration (water, Gatorade) as current plans include eliminating the water station along the course.
Q: Are there restrooms?
YES -- we will have portable toilet facilities located at the staging area, in the rear of the Scarborough Lane Shops. These will be easily accessed for the START, FINISH, and Post Race Event.
Q: This is my first 5K -- what’s a BIB?
Your “BIB” is your race number – which you pin to the FRONT of your outer most layer of clothing. Our Course Volunteers must be able to see it, or you could be asked to leave the course and prevented from approaching the FINISH. DO NOT REMOVE ANY PORTION of your BIB -- it has a ROAD ID coupon, and you will need to be wearing it at the FINISH for the post-race event. Your BIB number is also for our prize giveaways -- and you must BE THERE to win!
Q: Why is there a limit to the number of runners and walkers?
Our 2021 registration cap has been set at 650 and is subject to change (downward) should public health guidelines dictate. It is set to assure a safe and fun event for all participants and event volunteers. We ask for everyone's cooperation to not "bandit," compromising the health and safety of all those involved. Violating capacity ruins the goodwill we have worked hard to establish with our community and partners for over twenty-five years!
Q: Are there refreshments available at the post-race event?
We are relying on the expertise of our state and local health partners to help us modify our post-event planning. We are hopeful that our success and experience organizing the Turkey Trot will help us create a fun, modified plan ahead of Annual ADVICE 5K Turkey Trot this Thanksgiving! We will post all of the info about refreshments, beer, and prizes right here!
When beer is available at the Post Race Event, only registrants over the age of 21 will be provided with one identifying wristband ID in their packet. If you would like to enjoy a beer at the Post Race Party, YOU MUST be wearing it. ABSOLUTELY NO EXCEPTIONS!
Q: What happens to the proceeds from the Annual ADVICE 5K Turkey Trot?
Net proceeds from the Annual ADVICE 5K Turkey Trot benefit our permanent charitable endowment -- the Annual ADVICE 5K Turkey Trot Fund -- managed by the Outer Banks Community Foundation. Its purpose is to award non-profit grants for projects that improve and support the health and wellness of all people of the Outer Banks of North Carolina.
Q: Can I make a direct donation to the Annual ADVICE 5K Turkey Trot Fund?
Yes! You can support our charitable endowment all year long by making a secure online donation directly to the Outer Banks Community Foundation or from our online registration site (before, during or after registration).
