Asheville Chamber Challenge

The race will start promptly at 4:20 PM. Late starts will not be allowed for this event, so please plan to arrive on time at the start line. 

Signing up teams can be confusing, so we're here to help! 

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First off, teams have to be comprised of exactly four members. If you don't have all four members together when you initially sign up, that's alright! But, if you don't have four members when the race starts, you won't appear in the results. 

After entering in your personal info, you'll have to select whether or not you want to "Join or Create a Group/Team". 

• If nobody in your team has signed up yet, it's up to you to create the team! Select "Create a New Group/Team", name your team, and continue on through the registration process. When your teammates register later, they'll be able to select "Join an Existing Group/Team", search for your team name, and join up!
• If one or more of your teammates have already signed up, select "Join an Existing Group/Team", search for your team's name, and join in on the fun!

If you're interested in signing up multiple groups within your company, contact Judi Willard (jwillard@ashevillechamber.org) or the iDaph Support Team (support@idaph.net) for assistance. 

Race packets (shirts, race numbers/chips and important information) can be picked up on Thursday, May 14th, between 12 noon and 3:00 pm in the Chamber Boardroom (36 Montford Ave., second floor).

Complimentary race shirts are included with online registration until April 24th at midnight. After that date, shirts will be available for purchase for $10 (in limited sizes/quantities).

• I need help with registration. Who do I call?
  Register here. For assistance with registration, please contact support@idaph.net.
• Are there volunteer opportunities?
  Yes, we need many hands on deck in order for this event to be a success! Sign up for one (or more!) volunteer spots.
• What if I pre-registered teams for my company?
  If you pre-registered for the Chamber Challenge through our Total Resource Campaign, we will be in contact with you by April 19th for instructions on how to register your pre-paid teams.
• What prizes are given out?
  Prizes will be awarded to the top male, female and co-ed teams. We’ll also hand out prizes to the top team in each of our industry categories: Health/Wellness, Manufacturing, Education, Government & Nonprofit, Finance, Professional Services, Hospitality and Other. Individual Awards will be given to the following groups and categories: Male/Female: Overall Top 3 and Age Groups (1st and 2nd  places only): 9 and under, 10-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80 and over.
• How many participants are on a team?
  The Chamber Challenge teams are comprised of exactly 4 team members. The team types are: All Male, All Female or Co-Ed Teams. In order to be scored in the results as a team, you must have all four team members finish the race.
• Do I get a shirt when I register? What if my shirt doesn’t fit?
  Complimentary race shirts are included with online registration until April 24th at midnight. After April 24th, limited sizes will be available with your entry until supplies run out. We cannot guarantee shirts for any registrations after April 24th or walk-up registrations (if race is not sold out). If the shirt size that you ordered doesn’t fit, the tee may be exchanged AFTER the race has started at the registration area. We cannot guarantee sizes for exchanges.
• Can you register the day of the event?
  If there is still availability on race day, race day registration will take place from 2:00-3:30 pm at the Asheville Chamber. Look for the registration table next to the building. The Chamber Challenge is capped at 1,600 participants; we expect to sell out prior to event day.
• Do I need to bring any money to the race?
  Registrants are given one beer ticket with their bib. Beer tickets will also be available for purchase. You must provide your valid ID to drink or purchase beer. Vendors will showcase their business/products, and some of them may have items for sale.
• Can I switch one of my pre-registered team members to someone else?
  You can make changes to your team via your RunSignup.com account (you will create this when registering), or by emailing support@idaph.net — deadline for team participant changes is April 24th at Midnight EST. After April 24th, there will be a $10 fee for changes in participants.
• Can I pick up my packet prior to race day?
  Yes, please do! Race packets (shirts, race numbers/chips and important information) can be picked up on Thursday, May 14th, between 12 noon and 3:00 pm in the Chamber Boardroom (36 Montford Ave., second floor).
• Can I pick up the packets for my entire team?
  Yes, but you must notify your other team members that you are picking up the packets for them. 
• Where should I park on race day?
  The Chamber strongly encourages carpooling with team members. We encourage participants to use the city parking garages available downtown and walk to the Chamber building. Please plan to arrive early. If you have someone picking you up after the race, please plan to pick up down Montford—away from the course. The Chamber parking lot will be closed. School will also be in session, so neighboring school lots are not available.
• What do I do with my race number or chip?
  Your bib with your race number should be pinned to the front of your shirt. The bibs will have a strip on the back that serves as your timing chip.
• Why is the race on a Friday afternoon?
  Good question! Aren’t we all looking for an excuse to leave work early on Friday? The goal of the 5k is to promote health in the workplace. The time allows employers to make a statement that they are committed to the health of their employees.
• What happens in the event of rain?
  We get wet! The race takes place rain or shine. In the event of extreme weather conditions the race will be delayed until the storm blows over or called off.
• Is water available on the course?
  But of course! There will be two water stations available on the course and one at the finish line. We do recommend that participants bring water to drink prior to starting the course.
• Are strollers allowed?
  To avoid running over other participants, we ask that you stay to the “back of the pack” during the start.
• Can I bring my dog?
  No. While we love pets, we ask that you leave them at home.
   
   

Day of registration will be available from 2:00pm - 3:30pm outside the Asheville Chamber building. Registration and participant changes cannot be processed after this time to ensure a prompt start to the race. 

Clinical dietitians from presenting sponsor Pardee UNC Health Care  offer these nutrition tips to jeep you fueled and healthy…

Ideally, fuel up 2 hours before exercise by hydrating with water and eating healthy carbs (whole-grains, low-fat dairy, fruits and vegetables). Avoid saturated fats and even a lot of protein because they’re harder to digest.
If you are short on time and need energy, eat simple carbs like a piece of fruit because they digest faster and will provide your body with energy sooner.
After a workout, make sure to eat lean protein rich foods like legumes, chicken, and fish, in order to repair muscles used during exercise. Consumption of carbs post workout can help stimulate protein production.
Glucose loading isn’t recommended for athletes who train daily for endurance sports. Complex carbs like whole-grains, legumes, and starchy vegetables, promote glycogen (multiple glucose molecules) storage.
Drink water to be adequately hydrated: drink 2 cups of water 1-2 hours before the event and 1-2 cups of fluids 15 minutes before the event. In addition, eating a lot of protein before endurance exercise can cause dehydration, so try to avoid.
Electrolytes should be replaced after endurance exercise. Sports drinks are fine but remember they have added sugar and may cause an upset stomach if you drink too much. Fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of potassium.