FAQ's

Q:

How long is the race?

A:

The Hamilton Thanksgiving 5k is 3.1 miles.

Q:

What time does the race start?

A:

The Thanksgiving 5k race begins at 9am. This year we will continue implementing a staggered start, with corrals based on expected mile times.

Q:

How do I register?

A:

You can register online by visiting our website. Click the “Register Now” tab and follow the directions. Online registration for the Hamilton Thanksgiving 5k will end at 8:00 am on Thursday, Nov. 25, 2021. We will have a paper form registration option

Q:

May walkers participate in the 5k?

A:

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.

Q:

Where is the Start and Finish Line?

A:

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.

Q:

Is there an option to participate in a virtual race this year?

A:

Yes! In addition to our live race on Thanksgiving morning, for 2021 we will again be offering a virtual option. You can run your 5k anytime between Wed. Nov. 24th-Sun. Nov. 28th and submit your results online. Each virtual participant will receive a shirt and finisher medal. Options for virtual packet pick up: $25 registration if you pick up your packet during normal packet pick up times below or $35 registration to have your virtual race materials shipped directly to you. Information about the virtual race will be emailed out a few weeks before with the link for the virtual race. 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.

Q:

Is there another option to register besides the internet?

A:

Yes! We will also have paper online registration available at our packet pick up at the Marriott on Fri., Nov. 19th (5-8PM) and Sat. Nov. 20th (10AM-12PM) and the morning of race day. Note: Paper registration t-shirts will be first come and not guaranteed.

Q:

Where and when do I get my race packet?

A:

Packet pick up for those participating in the 5k will take place on Fri., Nov. 19 (5-8PM) and Sat., Nov. 21 (10AM-12PM) from in person at the Courtyard Marriott (1 Riverfront Plaza, Hamilton, OH 45011). There will also be an option to retrieve your race packet the morning of race day from 7:30-8:30am.

Q:

How can I check if I am registered for this race?

A:

Check your email after you complete your registration for your confirmation information.

Q:

Where should I park?

A:

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 interactive virtual map. All parking is free.

Q:

Do I receive a medal?

A:

All registered 5k participants will receive a medal. Your race bib must be displayed at the finish line.

Q:

What will I receive for participating?

A:

Participants in the Thanksgiving 5k will receive a race bag (filled with items from race sponsors). To be guaranteed a race t-shirt, register by Nov. 11th.

Q:

How do I get a race t-shirt?

A:

In order to be guaranteed a race t-shirt, you must register by Nov. 11th. After Nov. 11th, t-shirts will be first come and not guaranteed. In addition, t-shirts will NOT be mailed.

Q:

Is bib-swapping permitted?

A:

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.

Q:

Can I defer my registration?

A:

All race registrations are final. Sorry, there are NO refunds for cancellations.

Q:

Can I change my registration from live to virtual closer to the day of the race if I change my mind?

A:

Unfortunately the virtual and live entry materials are not interchangeable. Therefore, you will only be able to participate how you registered.

Q:

When is the last day to register?

A:

The last day to register online for the Thanksgiving 5k is the morning of the race, Thurs., Nov. 25th by 8:00am. However, we cannot guarantee race bags or t-shirts will be available for day of registration.

Q:

Is this a closed course?

A:

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.

Q:

Can I walk/run with a dog or stroller?

A:

We ask that all dogs and strollers start in the last wave of the race. Please be mindful of other race participants. We ask out of courtesy for those on and along the race that all pet owners pick up after their animals.

Q:

When and what is the Kids Fun Run?

A:

It is a FREE, mini race before the Thanksgiving 5k with three age groups: Under 5, 5-7, and 8-10. 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 Now” tab and follow the directions. Kids’ t-shirts can be purchased for $10 when registering online. The top male and female of each age group will receive a prize.

Q:

What are the awards for the age group winners?

A:

The top overall male and female will receive a special prize. In order to qualify for these overall top runners awards, individuals must be registered and run in the first corral and be the first to cross the finish line within Corral A. The top three male and top three female in each age group will receive a prize. Age groups are as follows: 0-12, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70 and over. Only registered participants are eligible to receive any awards. You must be present to receive your award after the race.

Q:

Where do the proceeds from the race go?

A:

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.

Hamilton Thanksgiving Day 5K for YoungLives