a guide for novices and regulars

You have taken the big step and entered your first Somersault Run, or you are coming back for another one. Regardless of whether this is your first or your twentieth event, knowing what happens on event day and preparing properly will make it more fun.

anyone who is healthy can do it
We are not saying it is easy, but if you are reasonably fit and healthy you can do it. Just take your time and don't try to do too much and set achievable goals. Your goal in the first one should be to finish and to enjoy the race experience. If it has been sometime since you were physically active, or you have any health doubts about your ability to participate, please consult your family physician.

training for the event
Somersault doesn't provide coaching or training programs. However, there are many others who are specialists at helping you prepare for the event. You can prepare for the event by visiting popular training web sites, or you can hook up with a local trainer, club, or training group. Click on the "Clubs and Coaches", to find some of these good people.

be prepared
The venerable Boy Scout motto says it all - prepare well. Don't leave anything to do on event morning that can be done earlier. For example, things like getting directions to the site, picking up a friend, packing the car, and getting gassed up, can be done the day before.

get there early
The second very important lesson is to be at the race site early - as soon as Race Kit Pick Up opens is a good idea, or at least 1 hour before the start time. Pick up your Race Kit before race day if at all possible. Only leave it to race day, as a last resort. You don't need the hassle on race morning - and neither do we.

rules and procedures
We won't repeat all the Somersault rules, regulations, and procedures here. Visit the Somersault "Rules", "General Info", and the individual event pages. Read everything carefully. This will go a long way to reducing your anxiety on the day.

ipods, mp3s, walkmans, and headphones
We do not encourage the wearing of Ipods, MP3s, Walkmans or Headphones, etc, during the run portion of Somersault events. These devices may prevent you from hearing instructions from marshals, other participants, or vehicles, and they may put you at risk.

We know however that many of you wish to wear these devices during running events, so we do allow you to wear them during the run, but we do advise you that you do so at your own risk.In addition, we only allow you to use one ear phone, leaving the other ear free to hear officials directions, or even an oncoming vehicle.

equipment and apparel
Equipment and apparel needs are modest but important. They are broken into three groups - the "need to haves", the "optional stuff", and the "provided stuff".

need to haves

• Racing Shirt - it is against the rules to race without a shirt , and the competitor's bib you must wear on the front has to be pinned to something
• Running Shoes - quality shoes designed for running
• Shorts - and of course shorts!
  
  

optional stuff

• Safety Pins - you might want to have some extras in case your race kit is short of them.
• Sun Glasses - early mornings may have you running into the sun
• Sun Hat - especially if it is a hot sunny day
• Rain Jacket - it's not always warm and dry

provided

• Competitor's bib and pins 
• Souvenir T-shirt - if you entered on time
• Neat Stuff - extra goodies often provided by sponsors
• ChampionChip Bracelet - a device that ensures that we can record your performance

pre-race procedures and flow
Read the timetable provided on the event entry information form. Arrive at the Start of the Race Kit Pick Up time period.

1. Go directly to Race Kit Pick Up, if you haven't picked your kit up prior to race day.
2. Head for the Timing Tent (near the finish line) to pick up your ChampionChip timing bracelet for the race. Everyone must wear one. Don't lose the chip, because it will cost you a chunk!
3. Review the event site, particularly on the start location . You have to get there for the start of the race.
4. Take a look at the first part of the run course, so there aren't any surprises.  
5. This should leave you lots of time for that pre race pee, conversation with others, a warm up, and the pre race announcements over the P. A. for information updates.
6. Be at the race start 10 minutes before start time. This will ensure that there are no miscues.

Some things to think about during the race:

1. Competitors number must be worn on the front during the run.
2. Follow the cone line - don't take short cuts, it's not allowed.
3. Don't cross the centre line of the roadway unless the cones let you.
4. Obey and treat the officials with respect during the race.
5. Be sure your competitor's bib is on the front of your shirt when you cross the finish line.
6. Return your ChampionChip bracelet after crossing the finish line.
7. Enjoy the post race refreshments.

results, award ceremony and food
Results will be posted shortly after you finish, in a conspicuous location on site. Look for your name and time. If there are any problems with your time, visit the Sportstats Timing Tent, and explain your problem.

Participants receive refreshments at the Finish Line after the race. The awards are presented as soon as possible after the last finisher has crossed the finish line.

Check to see if your name is on the Draw Prize list that will be posted near the results.  If it is, head for the awards table to claim your prize.

when you get home
You can visit our Web site at http://www.somersault.ca/results.htm to view or even print out the results of the race, as well as your performance certificate which will be up and running by Wednesday after the race. Hopefully it was a fun day and you will want to try it again soon!

See you at the races...