In-Person Race
Frequently Asked Questions
Registration Questions
1. Do you have day of race registration?
It is suggested that you sign up online or mail in early for races. We do, however, allow day of race registration (unless otherwise noted). We do not accept credit cards on day of race registration. Mail ins must be received by the date stated on the registration form.
2. When and where do I pick up my packet?
Packet pickup is the day of race at the location listed on the entry form specific to the race on runmichigancheap.com. The time is listed there, also.
3. Can I transfer or switch my bib/registration to another person?
No.
4. I am entered in the race but recently incurred an injury and will be unable to compete. Can I defer my participation to another race or get a refund? Can I transfer my bib to someone else?
You may transfer to a different event (within the current race season/year) at least a week before your original race for $10. If you switch to an event that is more expensive you will need to pay the differences as well as the $10 transfer fee. We do not offer refunds. No refund for shorter event. We do not allow bibs to transfer from person to person.
Transfers from the In-Person Race option to the Virtual Race option must be made at least a week before your original race.
5. I recently incurred an injury and still want to compete, but not at the current distance. Can I drop down to a shorter distance?
Yes. Please, email us your name, event name, your current race distance and the distance you would like to switch to.
6. If I can no longer participate, can I get a refund?
As with any sports or entertainment event, we do not offer refunds. We require you to accept our refund policy in order to complete the registration process for all of our events and you are given 15 minutes on RunSignUp to clear your registration should you choose to cancel.
7. If the race is canceled can I get a refund?
All race entry fees are non-refundable. That means that once we receive and accept your entry, you will not receive a refund. Run Michigan Cheap, in accordance with management executives, government officials, and local law enforcement has the authority to cancel any of the events for emergency purposes, such as, but not limited to, weather, virus or pandemic, threat of terrorism or government mandate. If such emergency conditions force cancelation, refunds, cannot be provided since funds will have been spent in preparation for race day.
If we are confronted with extraordinary circumstances and must cancel, we will do our best to give you full value for your entry fee. We will give you options, which may include: doing your race virtually, transferring to another Run Michigan Cheap race, and in some cases, we may be able to postpone the race.
If we need to make the difficult decision or are mandated to cancel, we will all be disappointed. Unfortunately, that is a risk we share. You may feel you are entitled to a refund in this situation, but this is not feasible due to the costs incurred by race day. If you can’t accept the terms of this partnership, we respectfully ask that you don’t register for our events.
8. Are the races walker-friendly?
The 5k has a separate walking division. Like the running division, there are no age group awards. Please note that all participants must be finished within the cutoff time for the longest distance.
9. Can a friend pick up my packet for me?
Yes, if friend is running the race. If runner cannot make it please do not check them in. If picking up multiple bibs they must be worn by the correct person or results will be incorrect.
10. Why didn't I receive a registration confirmation email?
If the registration went through and your account has been charged you should have received an email. Make sure to check your SPAM folder or junk mail for an email from RunSignUp.
If you still can’t find it, follow these steps (1) Log into your RunSignUp account (2) Go to your Profile (3) See your events under Upcoming Events (4) Click on Resend Confirmation.
If you are still unsure you can email us at runmichigancheap@gmail.com with your name and event and we will check the registration list.
It is suggested that you sign up online or mail in early for races. We do, however, allow day of race registration (unless otherwise noted). We do not accept credit cards on day of race registration. Mail ins must be received by the date stated on the registration form.
2. When and where do I pick up my packet?
Packet pickup is the day of race at the location listed on the entry form specific to the race on runmichigancheap.com. The time is listed there, also.
3. Can I transfer or switch my bib/registration to another person?
No.
4. I am entered in the race but recently incurred an injury and will be unable to compete. Can I defer my participation to another race or get a refund? Can I transfer my bib to someone else?
You may transfer to a different event (within the current race season/year) at least a week before your original race for $10. If you switch to an event that is more expensive you will need to pay the differences as well as the $10 transfer fee. We do not offer refunds. No refund for shorter event. We do not allow bibs to transfer from person to person.
Transfers from the In-Person Race option to the Virtual Race option must be made at least a week before your original race.
5. I recently incurred an injury and still want to compete, but not at the current distance. Can I drop down to a shorter distance?
Yes. Please, email us your name, event name, your current race distance and the distance you would like to switch to.
6. If I can no longer participate, can I get a refund?
As with any sports or entertainment event, we do not offer refunds. We require you to accept our refund policy in order to complete the registration process for all of our events and you are given 15 minutes on RunSignUp to clear your registration should you choose to cancel.
7. If the race is canceled can I get a refund?
All race entry fees are non-refundable. That means that once we receive and accept your entry, you will not receive a refund. Run Michigan Cheap, in accordance with management executives, government officials, and local law enforcement has the authority to cancel any of the events for emergency purposes, such as, but not limited to, weather, virus or pandemic, threat of terrorism or government mandate. If such emergency conditions force cancelation, refunds, cannot be provided since funds will have been spent in preparation for race day.
If we are confronted with extraordinary circumstances and must cancel, we will do our best to give you full value for your entry fee. We will give you options, which may include: doing your race virtually, transferring to another Run Michigan Cheap race, and in some cases, we may be able to postpone the race.
If we need to make the difficult decision or are mandated to cancel, we will all be disappointed. Unfortunately, that is a risk we share. You may feel you are entitled to a refund in this situation, but this is not feasible due to the costs incurred by race day. If you can’t accept the terms of this partnership, we respectfully ask that you don’t register for our events.
8. Are the races walker-friendly?
The 5k has a separate walking division. Like the running division, there are no age group awards. Please note that all participants must be finished within the cutoff time for the longest distance.
9. Can a friend pick up my packet for me?
Yes, if friend is running the race. If runner cannot make it please do not check them in. If picking up multiple bibs they must be worn by the correct person or results will be incorrect.
10. Why didn't I receive a registration confirmation email?
If the registration went through and your account has been charged you should have received an email. Make sure to check your SPAM folder or junk mail for an email from RunSignUp.
If you still can’t find it, follow these steps (1) Log into your RunSignUp account (2) Go to your Profile (3) See your events under Upcoming Events (4) Click on Resend Confirmation.
If you are still unsure you can email us at runmichigancheap@gmail.com with your name and event and we will check the registration list.
Race Day Questions
1. Where do I place my bib?
Bib numbers must be worn on the FRONT of your shirt at all times, secured by safety pins through the designated holes. Bib numbers must be visible during race. Do NOT bend bibs it will ruin your chip reader and you will not receive a time.
2. I do not have a bib number. Can I run the race as an unofficial "bandit" entrant?
No, please do NOT run if you have not been officially entered in the race. Race amenities provided along the course, including fluid replenishment stations and traffic safety concerns are based on the exact number of officially-entered competitors. Any addition to this number by way of unregistered participants will adversely affect the races. Unregistered participants will be removed from the course.
3. Who is able to enter the finishing chute?
Only racers who are completing their race may enter the chute. Unofficial entrants, spectators or finished racers are not permitted to enter the finish line or chute area. It is important to not obstruct or gather around the chute area for timing and safety purposes.
4. Is there key and bag check in?
No.
5. Where is parking?
Parking is located at address listed on the race form, unless otherwise noted. There is limited parking, carpooling is encouraged.
6. Can I use headphones or earbuds when racing?
We recommend you do not wear them during the race. Runners' ability to hear and react to situations and directions given by race officials on the course and in the finish chute is very important. Your safety is always our topmost concern. Wear at your own risk.
7. What are the types of refreshment fluids?
Water stations will be set up at the race finish, as well as multiple locations throughout the course.
Water stations contain only bottles of water, no gu or sports drink.
8. Will energy gels be made available on the courses?
No.
9. Is there a course time limit for participants?
Yes. You must maintain a 16-minute mile.
3.5 hours race time cut off for 1/2 marathons
2 hours & 25 minutes for 15K
2.5 hours for 10 miler. (16 minute miles)
10. Am I allowed to run with my pet?
No animals are allowed on the course, with the exception of service animals approved by race directors.
11. Can I race with a baby jogger/stroller?
Yes*, but you must start at the rear and give way to other racers.
12. Can I use roller blades, scooter or bike?
No. These items are all strictly prohibited from the race course.
13. Where do I find the race results and race pictures?
Race Results will be emailed and posted on runmichigancheap.com under the results tab. Race Photo's (if taken) are posted on our Facebook page. Results will be posted online (runmichigancheap.com) within 12 hours of the final finisher, barring any unforeseen circumstances. Our system does not allow us to look up specific photographs. You are responsible for finding your race photo in the appropriate album.
14. Are there age group awards?
No, there is only a finisher medal. This way you can take off after your race instead of waiting around for the last racer to finish.
15. Are the races chip timed?
Races are chip timed.
16. Is the course marked?
The course is marked with white yard signs for mile markers and any turns. On out and back races, the mile markers are correct for every distance going out, on the way back they are marked correctly for the longest distance.
17. My phone app or GPS watch says I ran longer/shorter than the distance I signed up for. Are you sure the course is accurate?
Yes. GPS watches and phone apps are not always as accurate as many runners believe.
18. When is the t-shirt cutoff date when registering? Am I able to buy a t-shirt day of?
The t-shirt cutoff date is posted on the race form. (found on our website for the specific race)
T-Shirts are Cotton, Unisex sizes Small to Extra-Large.
T-shirts may be available day of race for $7 (S-M-L-XL). (limited quantities available) (check or cash only)
19. It is going to rain on race day. Is the event canceled?
No. The races will be put on in rain, unless weather becomes too hazardous. If you are still concerned please read our weather policy.
20. I didn't complete the race, am I still able to receive my finishers medal?
No. Only finishers earn the finisher’s medal.
21. Can I wear an action camera during my race?
For the safety of both participants and spectators, we discourage the use of action cameras and selfie sticks while on the course.
22. Can I wear a costume during the race?
Yes, however, costumes cannot interfere with the safety of you or other runners. If your costume is questionable or offensive to others, we reserve the right to either have you change into something more appropriate or remove you from the event.
- Race bib must be able to attach to the front of your shirt/costume and be visible during the race
- Costumes may not contain sharp objects, pointed objects or materials that may accidentally strike other runners or contain any weapons that resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon
- Costumes must be family-friendly and may not be obstructive, offensive, objectionable or violent
- no large backpacks or bags of any kind will be allowed on the course
Bib numbers must be worn on the FRONT of your shirt at all times, secured by safety pins through the designated holes. Bib numbers must be visible during race. Do NOT bend bibs it will ruin your chip reader and you will not receive a time.
2. I do not have a bib number. Can I run the race as an unofficial "bandit" entrant?
No, please do NOT run if you have not been officially entered in the race. Race amenities provided along the course, including fluid replenishment stations and traffic safety concerns are based on the exact number of officially-entered competitors. Any addition to this number by way of unregistered participants will adversely affect the races. Unregistered participants will be removed from the course.
3. Who is able to enter the finishing chute?
Only racers who are completing their race may enter the chute. Unofficial entrants, spectators or finished racers are not permitted to enter the finish line or chute area. It is important to not obstruct or gather around the chute area for timing and safety purposes.
4. Is there key and bag check in?
No.
5. Where is parking?
Parking is located at address listed on the race form, unless otherwise noted. There is limited parking, carpooling is encouraged.
6. Can I use headphones or earbuds when racing?
We recommend you do not wear them during the race. Runners' ability to hear and react to situations and directions given by race officials on the course and in the finish chute is very important. Your safety is always our topmost concern. Wear at your own risk.
7. What are the types of refreshment fluids?
Water stations will be set up at the race finish, as well as multiple locations throughout the course.
Water stations contain only bottles of water, no gu or sports drink.
8. Will energy gels be made available on the courses?
No.
9. Is there a course time limit for participants?
Yes. You must maintain a 16-minute mile.
3.5 hours race time cut off for 1/2 marathons
2 hours & 25 minutes for 15K
2.5 hours for 10 miler. (16 minute miles)
10. Am I allowed to run with my pet?
No animals are allowed on the course, with the exception of service animals approved by race directors.
11. Can I race with a baby jogger/stroller?
Yes*, but you must start at the rear and give way to other racers.
12. Can I use roller blades, scooter or bike?
No. These items are all strictly prohibited from the race course.
13. Where do I find the race results and race pictures?
Race Results will be emailed and posted on runmichigancheap.com under the results tab. Race Photo's (if taken) are posted on our Facebook page. Results will be posted online (runmichigancheap.com) within 12 hours of the final finisher, barring any unforeseen circumstances. Our system does not allow us to look up specific photographs. You are responsible for finding your race photo in the appropriate album.
14. Are there age group awards?
No, there is only a finisher medal. This way you can take off after your race instead of waiting around for the last racer to finish.
15. Are the races chip timed?
Races are chip timed.
16. Is the course marked?
The course is marked with white yard signs for mile markers and any turns. On out and back races, the mile markers are correct for every distance going out, on the way back they are marked correctly for the longest distance.
17. My phone app or GPS watch says I ran longer/shorter than the distance I signed up for. Are you sure the course is accurate?
Yes. GPS watches and phone apps are not always as accurate as many runners believe.
18. When is the t-shirt cutoff date when registering? Am I able to buy a t-shirt day of?
The t-shirt cutoff date is posted on the race form. (found on our website for the specific race)
T-Shirts are Cotton, Unisex sizes Small to Extra-Large.
T-shirts may be available day of race for $7 (S-M-L-XL). (limited quantities available) (check or cash only)
19. It is going to rain on race day. Is the event canceled?
No. The races will be put on in rain, unless weather becomes too hazardous. If you are still concerned please read our weather policy.
20. I didn't complete the race, am I still able to receive my finishers medal?
No. Only finishers earn the finisher’s medal.
21. Can I wear an action camera during my race?
For the safety of both participants and spectators, we discourage the use of action cameras and selfie sticks while on the course.
22. Can I wear a costume during the race?
Yes, however, costumes cannot interfere with the safety of you or other runners. If your costume is questionable or offensive to others, we reserve the right to either have you change into something more appropriate or remove you from the event.
- Race bib must be able to attach to the front of your shirt/costume and be visible during the race
- Costumes may not contain sharp objects, pointed objects or materials that may accidentally strike other runners or contain any weapons that resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon
- Costumes must be family-friendly and may not be obstructive, offensive, objectionable or violent
- no large backpacks or bags of any kind will be allowed on the course
Post Race Questions
1. Where do I find the race Results?
Race results will be emailed to you post-race. The results will, also, be posted on the website (under the Results tab).
2. Where do I find the race pictures?
Although we attempt to take pictures of everyone, we do not guarantee (due to weather, technical difficulty, etc.) that we capture race pictures for every runner. The pictures can be found on Facebook. You are responsible for finding your own pictures. We will not email or post them to you anywhere else.
Race results will be emailed to you post-race. The results will, also, be posted on the website (under the Results tab).
2. Where do I find the race pictures?
Although we attempt to take pictures of everyone, we do not guarantee (due to weather, technical difficulty, etc.) that we capture race pictures for every runner. The pictures can be found on Facebook. You are responsible for finding your own pictures. We will not email or post them to you anywhere else.
Miscellaneous Questions
1. What are the nearby hotels & restaurants?
Use a search engine to find hotels and/or restaurants that best fit your requirements.
2. What do the medals look like?
Images of the medals may be posted to the Facebook page.
Use a search engine to find hotels and/or restaurants that best fit your requirements.
2. What do the medals look like?
Images of the medals may be posted to the Facebook page.