Middle Finger 5K

We are happy and excited to offer an in-person event for 2024! 

1.  What is the Middle Finger 5K?

A fun, family-friendly run/walk event created to bring awareness to Thrive To Survive a local non-profit that supports adults with cancer in Ontario, Seneca, Yates, & Wayne counties.  Check out www.thrivetosurvive.org for more information or to get more involved. 

2. Can I dress up?

Absolutely! I ENCOURAGE you to get CREATIVE; many participants dress in fun costumes or matching team t-shirts. You can upload photos on this site and we welcome you to post them on our Facebook/Instagram page. Use #MF5K

3. You ask about survivorship. What do survivors receive?

All cancer survivors who select ‘yes’ to “I wish to be recognized as a survivor” during registration will receive some kind gesture, perhaps a specially designed bib or a small offering. Typically, local community businesses donate tokens of appreciation for our survivors. Additionally, survivors and their families and friends will be touched by the support other survivors in our community offer.

4. Do I need to be a speedy runner for this race?

My goodness, no!  Although there will be some speedy athletes, this event is open to all fitness levels and you can register as a runner or walker.  You have this day!! 

5.  What is included in my registration?

Each registered participant will receive this year's commemorative Middle Finger 5K t-shirt and the great feeling of giving back to a local organization. You are also invited to the Check-in party the night before to taste local beers and wines while collecting your MF5K swag. A grab-and-go breakfast will be provided after the MF5K as a special way to finish the race.

Participants aged 21 years and over are invited for a free draft beer at 8:00 am at Kelly's Irish Pub for our "after" party! Tuck some cash in your socks and download the Uber app to enjoy additional libations! You know what they say, you can't drink all day if you don't start in the morning! 

All participants (who accurately input your email address) will receive information and updates regarding the MF5K, Thrive To Survive, and any other pertinent information.

6.  Team Membership Discount:

Team members will receive a team member discount once the 4th team member registers for your team. The team discount is received at checkout once the 4th Team Member is registered. Team Members 1 - 3 will receive a $5 credit to the credit card used at the time of payment. Teams of 15 or more participants registered by March 1 will have their team name printed on the back of the shirts.

7.  Can I change from an individual to a team?

If you want to be added to a team, log back into RunSignUp using your User ID and password. From there, you can change from Individual to Team. Team changes must be made before April 1 to be factored into the shirt printing. You will still be allowed to join a team after that, but we may not be able to add your team to the shirts. If you have additional questions or need assistance, please email jen@thrivetosurvive.com and include your name and the name of the team you would like to join. I am happy to help!

8. Is the Middle Finger 5K a charity run? Where does the money go?

Yes!!  The MF5K is the biggest fundraiser Thrive To Survive has.  Your participation directly helps adults in our area and their families THRIVE through a difficult cancer diagnosis.   100% of donations and proceeds go directly to individuals in treatment for cancer and programming to support them in their journey. Want to run for free?  Fundraise $200 and we will refund your registration! 

9. Does the run really start at 6:00 am?  It can't, can it?

Yes, the event really starts at 6:00 am!  Metaphorically, we realize cancer has no clock, so while we GET to run at 6:00 am, many people will be heading for treatment or taking care of other needs within their diagnosis.  The other reason is that the sun is expected to rise at precisely 5:49 am...just in time for us to SEIZE THE DAY! 

10.  How will I get my coveted Middle Finger shirt?  

The Check-In Party will be held on Friday, May 10th, from 4 pm -8 pm at the Finger Lakes Welcome Center, 35 Lake Front Drive, Geneva, NY 14456. For 2024, we will offer tastings* from local wineries and breweries. Stay tuned to see who will join us in 2024! There will be some vendors, music, and an all-around great time!   We highly recommend the Check-in Party! *must be 21 with proof of age for tastings. 

We strongly encourage picking up your swag at the Check-In Party. 

However, if you can't make it the night before, you can pick up your shirt the morning of the event from 5:00 am - 5:45 am in the Community Room of the Welcome Center. 

11. Are the Middle Finger events timed?

Yes. You must wear your bib on your torso for the timing chip to work properly. 

12. Are there refunds?

We cannot issue refunds. The logistics of setting up and planning the event make it impossible.  If you cannot attend or participate, know that your contribution will have an immediate positive impact on Thrive To Survive and the people we serve. We still encourage you to stop by the Check-In Party the night before to grab your swag!

13. Can I transfer my registration to another person?

I understand life happens, and plans change.  You can transfer your registration to another person as long as it is done before April 1. The shirt size will not be able to be changed.

14. What if it rains (or snows, I mean we are in Upstate, NY)?

While beautiful weather is ideal, a little precipitation won't stop the MF5K.  I know the weather doesn't stop cancer or treatments, so it can't stop us, either!! Dress for the conditions, and know that participating in a little rain (or snow) just makes you a little more badass.

15. Can I register on the day of the race?

In years past, we have sold out of registrations as early as three weeks before the event. I may have day-of registrations, but I can't guarantee shirts or breakfasts to day-of registrations.  It is strongly suggested you register early to secure your spot and swag.

16. Where can I park on the day of the race?
On the "Race Info" tab, scroll to the bottom to see the downtown Geneva parking lots map. There is plenty of parking within a short walking distance to the race start and finish areas.  I strongly suggest using the tunnel to walk to the start area. It is indicated on the map and 0.5 miles to the start/finish area.

17. Can I run with a dog or cat or pet lizard?

I love animals. However, for the safety of our participants and for the animals, I can not allow animals unless they are service animals. Animals can often be anxious around large groups of people, and people can often be anxious around animals. I do not want to stress out the animals or the people! Thank you for respecting this. 

18. Can someone else pick up my MF5K packet?

Absolutely, but why would you want to miss the Check-In Party? If you insist, I ask that your friend signs for you so there are no questions later.

19. What if I have to go to the bathroom?

There will be four portable bathrooms near the start/ finish line. The State Park also has a portable bathroom near the Water Station right before mile 2. We will also have access to the bathrooms at the Community Center of the Geneva Welcome Center on the morning of the race.

17. What if I have a question that isn't addressed here?  

For any additional questions or information, please email me, Jen. jen@thrivetosurvive.org    If I don't have the answer, I will make something up confidently.