FAQ
The race is almost here -- register by April 27 to guarantee a race t-shirt.
When and where is the Big O Half Marathon / 10k / 5k?
- Race date: Sunday, May 7, 2023 (8:00 a.m. to noon)
- Race location: Liberty High School 1400 Dubuque St North Liberty, Iowa 52317
- Race time:
- Half marathon starts at 8:00 a.m.
- 10K starts at 8:10 a.m.
- 5k starts at 8:20 a.m.
- The 10k and 5k times could vary slightly based on number of runners in those events.
- The race ends at noon--please see the time cap explanation in the next question.
Is there a time cap for the race?
- Yes, all races and support for runners on the course will end at noon. This means that for the half marathon you should average at least a 16 minute per mile pace or faster. All 10k and 5k participants also need to be done at noon. If you continue the course beyond noon, that is outside of the official race time, so please be safe, run on sidewalks not streets, and use caution when crossing streets.
Is there a cap on the number of participants?
- Yes, there will be a cap on the number of participants this year. Make sure to sign up as soon as possible to lock in your spot.
Where and when is Packet Pick Up located?
- Versa Fitness, 2201 E Grantview Dr STE 102 Coralville, IA 52241 US
- May 6, 2022 8:00am CDT - May 6, 2022 12:00pm CDT
- Same day pick up at the race from 6:30:7:30.
- Virtual packets will be mailed and the registration costs include the packaging and mailing fees. Please send in your virtual registration before April 21 if you'd like the packet before the May 7 race day.
Are there aid stations on the routes?
Yes, please see the route maps for more details on the aid stations and times they are open.
Where is race parking?
Parking is available at Liberty High. Parking is also available on side streets in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Are animals allowed in the race or can I bring a pet to the event?
No, we're sorry. We love our pets too. However, to ensure the safety of all runners, volunteers, and visitors this is a pet free event. Also the Liberty High School stadium (the hub for the race and spectator seating) is also a pet-free zone.
Does the event offer registration cancellation insurance?
- No, we do not offer registration cancellation insurance.
What if the event is canceled due to unforeseen circumstances?
- If the event gets canceled for an unforeseen circumstance, such as a pandemic, or another situation, such as emergency weather conditions, entry fees will still be non-refundable. The Big O Half Marathon / 10k / 5k, per management executives, city officials, and local law enforcement, has the authority to cancel any of the events for emergency purposes such as, but not limited to, inclement weather or threat of terrorism. If such emergency conditions force cancellation, the Big O Half Marathon / 10k / 5k cannot provide refunds since funds will have been spent preparing for race day. No partial or full refunds will be offered for the event – no exceptions.
Weather and emergencies
- For all emergencies during the event, please dial 911.
- There will also be an ambulance stationed at our event and police/city officials are at key intersections.
- Our race team will monitor weather and emergencies that could impact the race. We will notify you via RunSignup text messaging. So, please opt in for text messages for this race. To do that, go to “Manage Registration” and then “Questions.” %EDIT_REGISTRATION_LINK% Then select the opt in for text messages.
- We recommend all runners carry a phone with them.
- Emergency contacts -- Please make sure you have emergency contact information set up in your profile at RunSignup.com
What are registration fees for 2023 and when do prices go up?
- Click here to view registration fees and increases associated with the Big O Half Marathon / 10k / 5k race in 2023.
How do I register for Big O Half Marathon / 10k / 5k races?
- It’s easy; click on the “Race Info” link at the top to bring you to the page. From there select the event distance category of your choice to sign up. Coming May 7th, 2023.
What is the course elevation?
- Half Marathon; Max Elevation: 795 feet. Min Elevation: 725 feet. Elevation Gain: 410 feet. Elevation Loss: 410 feet.
- 10K; Max Elevation: 791 feet. Min Elevation: 726 feet. Elevation Gain: 229 feet. Elevation Loss: 229 feet.
- 5K; Max Elevation: 791 feet. Min Elevation: 759 feet. Elevation Gain: 97 feet. Elevation Loss: 97 feet.
Are these races time chipped?
- Yes, all three distances will be timed chipped so runners know their time. However, this isn't an official, competitive race.
Can someone hop on the course to run with me for a few miles?
- No. The only people allowed on the course are registered athletes, with a corresponding athlete race number/bib entered in the race for that purpose.
Can I run in the actual race if I sign up for the virtual race?
- No, unfortunately we are capping the number of in-person runners due to the size allowed for this event to ensure there is enough space for the runners on the course. So, only runners who sign up for the in-person race are allowed to participate.
Can I run or walk with a stroller? How about with a dog on a leash?
- No. Baby strollers or dogs on leashes are not allowed on the course, primarily for the other athletes’ safety purposes. The only people allowed on the course are registered athletes who entered the race for participation.
Can someone ride the course on a bike, roller blades, skateboard, etc. with me?
- No. Wheels are not allowed on the course primarily for the other athletes’ safety on the course. The only people allowed on the course are registered athletes entered in the race to participate in the race.
What is offered on the course at Aid Stations?
- We will plan to offer Gatorade, Water, and Gus.
Can I run or walk with headphones?
Yes, however, the use of personal music devices is discouraged for safety reasons. Please be mindful of other participants.
How can I find race results?
Click here to find your race results. Please allow up to 48 hours to view results post race.
Where are the portable toilets located on the course?
Yes we will have portable toilets available on the course at each aid station. There are also toilets in the football stadium where the race is being held.
Will I get a race packet and, if so, what's in it?
Yes--all runners will get a packet with an official Keep Moving Forward race bid and a t-shirt. Plus, at the race end you'll get a Keep Moving Forward medal! Virtual runners will receive their medal in the mailed packet. Please note that we can only guarantee t-shirt sizes will all be available for registrations completed prior to April 25, so register early!
Where/when can the virtual race be done?
Virtual races can be done anywhere during May 1 - May 7. There will be the ability to log your race time on the results page.
How will the virtual race be timed and tracked?
- The virtual race is self-timed; however, feel free to download the RunSignup app to help with this.
- You can add your time to the run results page on the RunSignup app.
Why is the virtual cost the same (or close to) the in-person cost?
- The virtual cost stays the same throughout the entire registration period, whereas the other race prices do go up in Feb and March. The virtual price also includes packaging and mailing costs.
Are there training guides or programs that can help me get started
- Yes we have a great selection for you to choose from as well as a warm up guide from our Corporate Sponsor Team Iowa.
I've come to the end and I don't see my question listed. Help!
No problem. Please don’t hesitate to contact the race director with your question at nicholas.burrell@versafitnesstraining.com.
