Q:
I've never done a trail run before. Is this a good place to start?A: It depends. Are you realistic about the distance you are thinking about running, well-prepared to run it and totally self-sufficient? If so, go for it! If in doubt, pick a shorter distance this time so you don't kill yourself, and come back to set the course record next year.
Q: Can I run less than 25K?
A: Absolutely! Some thoughts:
- the trail is basically two loops, so you could do the first loop.(approx. 12 km)
Q: How tough is the course?
A: Tough question to answer! How far are you running? How fast? How well are you trained? If you have ever mountain biked in the Durham Forest, it is considered to be intermediate by BALLS MAPS. The section where we run is considered to be advanced by BALLS MAP. Really all it depends on is your sanity level. I run, ride , and ski in there as much as I can and always seem to follow the same paths, some days it tough, some it's easy. Come out and enjoy.
Q: Do I really need to print off the course instructions and bring them with me
A: Yes. Without the detailed instructions or an intimate familiarity with the course you will get lost.
Q:
This event is free, but for Club Fat Ass members only. How do I get into the club?
A: There is no hazing ceremony like the Hash House Harriers! Runners, walkers, hikers, triathletes, adventure racers, mountain bikers and anyone else interested in having fun in the great outdoors is welcome and can
register online for a nominal fee.
Q: Can I wait until the last minute and join at the start?
A: Yes, but you can't take out an annual membership at the start, only a Single Day, which means that if you want the shirt you'd better sign-up beforehand or you end up paying twice. It also helps us to prepare better and makes our live easier (who likes manual data entry).
Q: It's a free world. What's to stop me from just running the course.
A: Nothing... in fact, we strongly encourage you to run the course often in training! We prefer that you do not 'bandit' the course on event day, however. If you insist, you will not get recognition in the results or be eligible for any draw prizes and you'll have to wear a black patch over one eye at the banquet. Furthermore, you won't be allowed into future events until you come clean with past membership dues.
Q: What if I get lost?
A: You shouldn't get lost if you refer to the course instructions where you are faced with a choice of direction. Maps will be available at the start. If there is any confusion about the course, come out and run before April 21th. I'll take you through it.
Q: Do I get credit for any time I spend off-course?
A: Are you kidding? If you do find an obvious mistake in the course directions, point it out to the Event Host at the finisher banquet for a free beer!
Q: It's a pain in my you-know-what to pause and read instructions. Couldn't you mark the course like just about every other running race I've ever been in?
A: Club Fat Ass events are supposed to be different than every other running race you've ever been in. As an Event Host, I have to commit to not putting chalk/flour on the ground, hanging surveyor tape in the trees, painting rocks with arrows, putting up signs or doing anything that might leave a trace of the event on the environment, as this is the way Mother Nature prefers. Besides, having to read written course directions tends to slow down the faster runners.
Q: What is the 'Rule of the Trail'?
A: If you pack it in, you can pack it out. (That means don't you dare litter!) Leave nothing but your footprints on the course. We strongly encourage you to pick up any trash you find along the trail and to present it to the Event Host at the finisher banquet. There may be a recognition award for the person who packs out more than they packed in.
Q: What if I have to heed the call of nature.
A: There are washrooms at The Olco gas station in Claremont. Turn left at lights at 9th concession (Central St ) proceed to four way stop, gas station is on your right. Also there, The Old Brock Cafe + Pizzeria.
Q: What should I bring on race day?
A: Whatever you figure you will need given the weather, the distance you propose to run, your physical fitness on the day and your plans for after the run. Some thoughts are on the event agenda.
Q:
I am supposed to be self-sufficient because there is no aid provided. Can I get a friend to come out and give me food and drink along the route?A: Absolutely! In fact, it would be nice if your friend were to help everyone. Click on crew tasks and aid station ideas for some thoughts on what some of the options are. Please have your friends and family members contact us and we will do all we can to insure that they have fun, as well.
Q: Can I bring my friends and family to the finisher party even if they didn't run or volunteer?
A: Absolutely! Please be sure to include them on your registration form so there will be room for them.
Q: How accurate is the course marking?
A: The course was measured with mountain bike computer.
Q: When will the 'official' results be available?
A: We hope to have the results up on this website within 24 hours of the finisher party.
