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FAQ's

Music Questions
Race Entry, Changes & Withdrawal
Race Information 
Travel & Accommodation
Race Day
General Questions

Music Questions

Will the participants be allowed to run using MP3 players during Run to the Beat?
There are many arguments for and against the use of MP3 players by participants during a mass participation running event and, as organisers, we have considered each argument closely.

Our stance for the event is that MP3 players will be allowed. Music is integral to the whole event experience and therefore to not allow them to use MP3 players would be against the essence of Run to the Beat. The spirit of the event is to inspire runners to take to the sport for the first time or to enjoy their experience more and possible improve on performances – because of the power of music.

However, there are two vital things to consider, which the organisers will go to considerable lengths to communicate.

1. The main purpose of the event is that live music will be played throughout the course, scientifically selected to improve the performance of all participants. Therefore, signage will be in place whenever this music can be heard to “TURN OFF YOUR MP3 AND GET WITH THE BEAT"

2. The various points made as to why participants shouldn’t wear MP3 players in a mass participation running event are hugely valid. 1. It is antisocial and possibly dangerous not to consider other runners on the course.

3. It is vital to pay attention to all event marshals and volunteers for guidance and instructions.

4. Finally, however much the music motivates you, you will miss out if you enter your own world and ignore the unique atmosphere and experience that the spectators and live music acts provide.

Race Entry, Changes & Withdrawal

I’ve applied online. Have I been accepted into the race?
Yes, if you have applied and paid online and received a confirmation email your place is confirmed.

Is there an age limit for the race?
Yes, the minimum age is 18.

I’ve entered but am unable to take part. Can I get a refund or give my place to a friend?
We are unable to give refunds or transfer entries. Never swap your race number with any other runner as this could cause problems for our medical teams and results service. If race organisers become aware of anyone who swaps their race number they will be disqualified and reported to UK Athletics.

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Race Information

What will I receive before the race?
Runners who enter online will receive a confirmation email. We will update you with various information via eNewsletters and you will receive your race pack four weeks prior to the race.

What do I do if I haven’t received my race pack?
If you have not received your race pack two weeks prior to the race, please contact the race hotline on 020 8233 5900.

I am thinking of entering but am worried about completing the race in time?
Please note that this event is a road race designed for fun runners. Due to time constraints the roads will remain closed for a certain period only. If you do not think you’ll complete the 13 miles in under 3.5 hours the race organisers strongly advise you do not enter the event. We also ask that on the day you line up at the rear of the main race and that during the race you keep to the side of the road and allow other runners to pass.

Do I have to raise money for a charity?
No you don’t have to, but we hope that many runners will choose to raise funds for our official charity - Leukaemia Research (www.lrf.org.uk/en/1/barunbeat.html) - or a charity of your choice.

Can I fundraise for my own charity?
Yes, if you have a confirmed entry you can fundraise for whoever you wish.

Where can I find advice on pre-race training?
You can find training advice on this website and through our training partner www.trainsmart.com

What is the course?
You can view a map of the course from this website. A downloadable map will be available shortly.

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Travel and Accommodation

What accommodation is available near the route?
There are numerous hotels close to the venue. Visit www.theo2.co.uk for more information.

How do I find out which roads are closed?
For more information please consult the route map or contact the race office. We will publish a full list of road closures prior to the race.

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Race Day
Where is the start/finish?
The race start and finish is at The O2.

What time does the race start?
The race start time is 09:45am.

Do I need to bring anything with me on race day?
Please bring your luggage tag and race number. Don’t forget to bring safety pins to attach the race number to your front and ensure that you have completed the important information on the reverse of your race number. You may also like to bring some Vaseline or plasters to protect your skin from blisters during the race.

What should I do when I arrive on the day?
You should follow signs to the Runners area and then look for the appropriate time board for your estimated finishing time and enter that starting zone. It is vital that you get into the right starting zone for your predicted finish time and ensure that you are wearing your correct race number.

Will drinks be provided?
Yes, there will be water / sports drink stations at intervals throughout the course.

Can I walk part of the way?
Yes, but you should only enter if you know you can complete the 13.1 mile course in under 3.5 hours. If you are still on the race course when roads are due to reopen to traffic you will need to move on to the pavement and be aware that all course and medical facilities will cease.

What happens if I can’t finish the race?
If you need medical attention or are too tired to complete the course, please alert the nearest steward who will call for assistance. A sweep vehicle will follow the last runner and will collect anybody requiring assistance.

What happens at the finish?
After crossing the finish line please ensure you give your ChampionChip to the chip collectors. You will then pass through a ‘runners only’ area where you can pick up water, a goodie bag, foil wrap and your medal. You will then exit into the O2 arena where bag drop, massage and food concessions will be available along with first aid.

What do I do if I lose or forget to hand in my ChampionChip?
You will need to return it to the race office, or you will be charged £10 for a replacement.

How will I know my finishing time?
Provisional results will be posted on this website by Monday 6th October 2008.

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General questions

What catering services will be available on the day?
The O2 has numerous food outlets catering for all your needs.

Will I receive my certificate?
A certificate will be available for you to download via www.sportcam.net

Are there any changing/ shower facilities available?
There are only very limited changing facilities and no showers. Also please bear in mind that there are often long queues for toilets at the start, so if possible please try to use other toilets before you arrive.

Where do I leave my clothes/ personal belongings?
You will receive a bag drop sticker with your race pack. Please stick this to your bag before handing it in to the bag drop. This service is free to all runners, but all items are left at your own risk, so please do not bring any valuables with you.

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