FAQ’s
How long is the race?
The Hamilton Thanksgiving 5k is 3.1 miles.
What time does the race start?
The Thanksgiving 5k race begins at 9am. This year all runners will look for a sign for their expected finish time and line up in their chute area. Everyone will be released at the same, but your time doesn’t officially start until you cross the starting line.
How do I register?
You can register online by visiting our website. Click the “Register Here” button and follow the directions. Online registration for the Hamilton Thanksgiving 5k will end at 8:00 am on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023. We will have a paper form registration option
May walkers participate in the 5k?
Yes, we welcome walkers and strollers, but they must be able to keep a 40 minute per mile pace. Roads will reopen at this pace and course services are not guaranteed to be available past this time. We ask that all walkers and strollers start in the last wave of the race.
Where is the Start and Finish Line?
The location for the 5k start and finish line will be near the corner of Dayton and Second Street between Marcum Park Apartments and Marcum Park.
Is there an option to participate in a virtual race this year?
Yes! In addition to our live race on Thanksgiving morning, for 2023 we will again be offering a virtual option. You can run your 5k anytime between Wed. Nov. 22nd-Sun. Nov. 26th and submit your results online. Each virtual participant will receive a tshirt. Virtual packet pick up: Pick up your packet during normal packet pick up times. Although our virtual option will not have prizes or an after party, it’s a great way to still support a local cause if you are out of town.
Is there another option to register besides the internet?
Yes! We will also have paper registration available at our packet pick up at The Benison: Events and Coworking on Nov. 20 and 21 (430-730PM) and the morning of race day. Note: Paper registration tshirts will be first come and not guaranteed.
Where and when do I get my race packet?
Packet pick up for those participating in the 5k will take place on Nov. 20 and 21 (430-730PM) at The Benison: Events and Coworking (100 S. Third St, Hamilton, OH 45011). There will also be an option to retrieve your race packet the morning of race day from 7:30-8:30am.
How can I check if I am registered for this race?
Check your email after you complete your registration for your confirmation information.
Where should I park?
You will find plenty of on-site parking with two main parking garages located within one mile of the start line. Addresses for parking garages are located on our Course Description Page. All parking is free.
Do I receive a medal?
All registered 5k participants will receive a medal. Your race bib must be displayed at the finish line.
What will I receive for participating?
Participants in the Thanksgiving 5k will receive a race bag (filled with items from race sponsors) and a race tshirt. To guaranteed tshirt size, register by Oct. 14th.
How do I get a race tshirt?
In order to be guaranteed a race tshirt, you must register by Nov. 11th. After Nov. 11th, tshirts will be first come and not guaranteed. In addition, tshirts will NOT be mailed.
Is bib-swapping permitted?
For the safety of our race participants, and in case of a medical emergency, it is imperative that the registration data associated with the race bib belongs to the person wearing the big.
Can I defer my registration?
All race registrations are final. Sorry, there are NO refunds for cancellations.
Can I change my registration from live to virtual closer to the day of the race if I change my mind?
Unfortunately the virtual and live entry materials are not interchangeable. Therefore, you will only be able to participate how you registered.
When is the last day to register?
The last day to register online for the Thanksgiving 5k is the morning of the race, Thurs., Nov. 23rd by 8:00am. However, we cannot guarantee race bags or sweatshirts will be available for day of registration.
Are there any COVID safety protocols in place for this event?
Before you come to the race, please take a moment to self-assess for any potential COVID-19 symptoms. If you are experiencing symptoms or if you or anyone in your group has been exposed to or experienced any symptoms of COVID-19 within the past 10 days, we ask that you please stay home.
Is this a closed course?
Parts of the course are closed to traffic. Please be mindful and pay attention to signs and course volunteers to stay on the correct side of the cones for everyone’s safety.
Can I walk/run with a dog or stroller?
Strollers are allowed, but unfortunately as the size of this event has grown dogs will not be allowed in the race for the safety of our participants.
When and what is the Kids Fun Run?
It is a FREE, mini race before the Thanksgiving 5k with three age groups: 3 and under, 4-6, and 7-10. The first age group will begin at 8:30 and the following two age groups shortly afterwards. You can register online by visiting our website. Click the “Register Here” button and follow the directions. Kids’ tshirts can be purchased for $10 when registering online. The top male and female of each age group will receive a prize.
What are the awards for the age group winners?
The top overall winners will be awarded based on the first male and female to cross the finish line. In order to qualify for these overall top runners awards, make sure you are in the first wave to be eligible for the overall prize. It will be based on Gun Time and not Chip Time. The top three male and top three female in each age group will receive a prize. Age groups are as follows: 12 and under, 13-15, 16-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70 and up. Only registered participants are eligible to receive any awards. You must be present to receive your award after the race.
Where do the proceeds from the race go?
All profits raised through the Thanksgiving 5k supports our local mentoring program for teen moms, YoungLives, in Hamilton and surrounding communities by providing for their monthly gathering, summer camp trip, and yearly resources. Click here to learn more about YoungLives.