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My first race day! What do I do??! well, besides show up and run, anyway...
so, i have my first race on sun. and it's a 10k. I have read a couple articles on runner'sworld.com about what to do, but i am still kindof nervous. Any advice out there for a race newb? how many aid stations are there usually? can i use my ipod? if i need to stop and walk, do i stay to the side, out of the way? how early should i show up? Is 1 hour and 15 min a really sucky time, cause that's what i think i'll end up running?
i'm really exited but i have pre-race jitters! HELP!
I've got my first race next Sunday, the 13th, and I'm a little nervous too, so I know how you're feeling. I'd imagine things like number of aid stations will vary from course to course, so I'd recommend checking out the event's website. There should be an FAQ that will answer most of your questions. If not, there should at least be an email address or phone number for a contact person you could ask.
Especially for your first race, I wouldn't worry too much about your time. Set out to finish the race and that's already an accomplishment in itself. Have you timed any 10k training sessions? That should give you an idea of what to expect, though I'd also think you'd be a little bit quicker on race day on account of the excitement and adrenaline.
Good luck and have fun!
i have been running races since i was 10 years old and i still get nervous before races. I ususally go with someone I know, like a family member or friend. Most of the time they are running with me. Depending on the size of the race, I like to get there maybe 45-60 minutes before the start. Enough time to park, pick up your number and to a very light warm up jog, maybe a real easy mile. Most people train in the evening and arn't used to waking up early and running. So just get the blood flowing and release some of the energy in your warm up. As for water stations, do you usually drink water when you run 6 miles at home? I don't. I don't pick up water on a 10k or less because that's not how I train at home. I like to keep everything consistant, even if the time running isnt. If you hydrate before your race starts, you probably don't need any water. If you need to slow down or stop and walk, just check behind you to make sure no one is on your heals. GOOD LUCK! 
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