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To promote an enjoyable running and walking experience for everyone,
The Gardner Track XC Booster Club & Wildcat 5K Committee encourages good runners’ etiquette.
Whether running in a group or running alone, always follow the Walking & Running RRCA Safety Guidelines.
Whatever the pace, wherever the race, manners matter.
Rules of the road and trails
Never run more than two abreast if you are running in a group. Don’t be a road or trail hog.
Don’t run down the middle of the road or trail.
If you are running an out and back route, don’t just make a sudden u turn at your turn around point. Stop, step to the right to allow oncoming traffic the opportunity to pass.
Ensure the road or trail is clear of oncoming traffic (runners, cyclists, in line skaters, etc.)
then make your u turn. Making a sudden u turn without looking over your shoulder is a
good way to get hit.
Alert pedestrians when you are passing them don’t assume they are aware of their
surroundings. A simple "on your left" warning will suffice.
Be alert on blind curves. Stop at stop signs and ensure oncoming
traffic yields to you before proceeding across aroad. Don’t assume cars will stop if you are entering a cross walk.
Respect private property along your route. Don’t relieve yourself in the neighbor’s bushes.
Don’t litter. If you can’t find a trash can, carry your trash home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the start?
The race starts and finishes at Gardner High School, 200 Catherine St., Gardner MA. The starting line is at the cross walk near GHS front door.
What is the distance?
A 5K is 3.1 miles.
Is there a water stop?
There is only one water stop located approximately at the mile 1.5 mark, located near the Mount Wachusett Community Collage near the blue Campus Police entrance sign.
Is the Wildcat 5k chip timed?
Yes!
Can I take a shortcut on the Course?
NO!! You must stay on the designated race course only!
Where do I park?
Parking is available GHS, GMS both sides & back of the schools.
Where do I register and pick up my bib number?
Registration and bib pickup is at the High School at one of the Orange Gardner Track / XC Tents.
My family will be with me, is there a race for my children? No
Can we wear a costume?
Yes, have fun with the Wildcat 5K walk-run, We encourage it!
Make sure you can safely see and move around.
If wearing a hat or wig make sure its secure on you , so it will not fall off to effect other runners or walkers, Thank you.
Can I run or walk with a baby jogger?
Baby joggers are NOT allowed
As well as NO carriages, wagons, pacing bicycles, skateboards, roller skates (or blades).
Can I run or walk with my dog?
NO animals of any kind are allowed in the race,
Please do not run with your dog on the course and please leave your pets at home.
Can I get a refund if I register but don’t run?
No. However, if you have registered and do not run, you may pickup your packet before the race starts.
After that time you forfeit the packet, but thank you for your donation.
Can I run with headphones or earbuds?
For safety reasons, we discourage the use of headphones on the course.
When does registration on race day and bib pickup end?
The Wildcat 5K registration and bib pickup starts at 7:00 am and ends at 7:45 am.
The Kid's 1 Mile registration & bib pickup starts at 7:00 am and ends at 7:20 am.
Will I receive any confirmation once I register?
Only if your e-mail address is clear and easy to read.
Where, how do I attach my bib number?
All bib numbers are attached to the front of your shirt or shorts, pins are provided.
Are registration fees transferable and refundable?
No, thank you for your donation.
Will the race be cancelled for any reason?
We cannot see any reason the race to be cancelled. It will be held rain or shine, however, if it is lightning in the area we will delay the start for safety reasons.
General Rules for Running in an Event
Follow the rules of the race outlined on the race entry form! All runners have a collective responsibility to keep the event safe.
NO running with dogs, headphones, cell phones, and jogging strollers.
Covid-19 State mask & distance Guidelines must be followed.
Preregister even if same day registration is offered. This will help ease the registration process for everyone involved.
Arrive early for the event, especially if you are picking up your number on race day.
Check your registration information carefully, especially if you are racing for an award or prize money.
Use the facilities before the race start to lessen the need once on course, and help keep the
facilities clean for person in line after you.
Pin your race number on the front of your shirt/shorts. This is where it is most visible for
photographers and race officials.
We will Line up according to how fast you plan to run or walk the event. Slower runners and walkers should move to the back of the race pack. Just because you arrived early does not mean you should be at the front of the starting line.
Pay attention to the pre race instructions. This is not the time to be blaring your favorite song on your personal music device (which should be locked in your car or at home).
ALL MIAA ,NCAA, Rules for student athletes are respected in the course of Wildcat 5K.
