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Race Etiquette

Due to the size of the event we ask that you be mindful of your fellow runners so all participants have a great experience!

Seeding

SEED YOURSELF APPROPRIATELY. What does seeding mean? Basically we ask that you know how fast you run a mile so you can “seed” yourself accordingly at the start, which will ensure you are running with women of similar pace. For example, if you run on average a 9 minute mile pace, look for the 9 minute mile sign at the starting line. Also, listen to the announcer. They will be calling out the paces at the start.

PLEASE NOTE: If you are walking, or run slower than a 12 minute mile pace, go to the back of the starting group. If you are running with a baby stroller, please seed yourself in the stroller corral on the corner of Beacon Street and Charles Street. We are so excited that you are joining us for the event and we want to make this experience great for all! It is dangerous for runners to navigate around strollers.

The Boston 10K for Women loves that so many of you are running with friends or family! When you are running on the course, please run no more than 2 abreast to ensure that others will be able to pass you without difficulty.

Stopping

IF YOU NEED TO STOP FOR ANY REASON, move to the side of the road or off the course. If you are in need of assistance, please ask any of our volunteers on the course and they can get you the help you need. There will be medical assistance on the course as well as uniformed officers in the event you need help.

Water Stations

We all get thirsty, and those water stations sure do get messy. Most water stations have water on both sides of the road, so here are a few tips:

  • If you are not thirsty, stay in the middle of the road, this is the clearest path.
  • If you are thirsty, please look to the left and right of you before merging to the water tables. Chances are there are people surrounding you on both sides; make sure you are not cutting a fellow runner off.
  • Stopping to take a drink – running and drinking at the same time is difficult. If you need to slow down or stop to take a drink, proceed to the end of the tables, move to the side and slow down before stopping.
  • Discarding your cup – do not toss your cup in the air. Either drop your cup at your feet or below waist level and to the side.

Be Mindful

BE AWARE OF THOSE AROUND YOU. If you see someone who looks like they need help, tell a race worker or volunteer and take note of which mile marker they were closest to.

Finish Line

ONCE YOU HAVE CROSSED THE FINISH LINE, keep moving! If you need assistance, check in with the doctors and they will get you the help you need. Please do not wait for other runners in this area; we need to keep the space open for the masses coming in.

These guideline are to provide a safe and enjoyable running experience for all runners. We appreciate your compliance and will see you at the finish line!