5K Race Production Checklist

For those looking to put on a 5K race for the first time.  Here is a list of items you will need to consider.

1. Course creation / measurement / certification
2. Good parking at event venue
3. Make sure your course does not cross railroad tracks
4. Event logo design
5. T-shirt printing
6. Event Insurance / Sanctioning
7. Awards (usually around 80 awards for overall and age groupers give or take based on doing 3 deep male/female in 5 year age groups.)
8. Finish Line structure / Race Clock
9. Event Permits
10. Power at event site.  It not available then get generators.
11. Volunteers - good number to shoot for based on 500 runners is 30.
12. Tables
13. Cones / Road blockades
14. Police support
15. Portable bathrooms at race site
16. Two way radios for communication to key personnel.
17. Food for race participants - Fruit, Bagels, Water is usually the standard items.
18. On-site EMT. Good to have in case of medical emergencies.
19. Signage - to help with day of participant information.  This could include but not be limited to registration area signs, parking signs, mile markers, etc.
20. Race timing:  Manual or chip timed.  This will affect cost.  Chip timed is more expensive but much more efficient than manual timed events.
21. Finish line entertainment.  Local DJ's can provide good music and fun at your finish line.
22. PA system - used for announcements throughout the event.  Many times the DJ will also serve the purpose of the PA system if the venue allows.

Other items in the planning process may arise.  But this gives you a good snapshot of what to expect.