Packet-pickup has become a standing tradition for running races. Whether it’s a simple walk-up table in a local location or a huge running expo in a major city, it’s a familiar part of the process from 5Ks to full marathons. Most important, it’s how runners obtain their registered race numbers (tagged as bibs), which are required for participation in the event.
Packet pick-up details are listed on race websites, and often on their social networking pages as well. Additionally, registered runners will usually receive email reminders as race day approaches.
When does packet pick-up occur?
Although plenty of smaller races (such as community 5Ks) hold packet pick-up on-site on race day, most running events schedule it ahead of time. Often, it’s the day before a race, but it may be a few days or a week in advance. A few running events offer multiple packet pick-up choices, perhaps on different dates in a couple of locations, if the race will be in a large metropolitan area.
In many cases, running events will also offer race-day registration, check-in, and packet pickup. This is helpful for out-of-town runners who may be unable to arrive ahead of time. Sometimes there’s an extra charge for on-site pick-up. And there’s almost always a higher cost for signing up for races at the last minute.
Race day packet pick-up can be convenient for some runners, but it can also be cumbersome, as they need to stash the stuff in a car, hand it to a non-running supporter, or place it in gear check at the race site.
Where does packet pick-up take place?
Race organizers may choose to set up shop for packet pick-up in all sorts of spots, such as:
- a hotel lobby
- a local gym
- a park pavilion or picnic shelter
- a sponsor’s location
- a sporting goods store
- a tent at the race site
- and more.
I cannot tell you how many packet pick-up events I’ve attended that occurred inside running shops. Of course, the race table is always set up towards the back of the merchant facility, so all of the race entrants must walk the gauntlet through all of the product displays. (It’s a little like the exit-through-the-gift-shop setup at popular museums, theme parks, and other attractions.)
Packet pick-up is an excellent opportunity for running enthusiasts to volunteer, especially for charity races held by non-profit organizations. Race ambassadors may be volun-told to participate in such occasions, greeting fellow runners and handing out race packets. In some cases, races may hire temporary staff for assistance as well.
Most packet pick-ups are done in-person, although more and more of the larger, well-organized races will offer mailed packets for an extra fee. These generally arrive at least a week or two ahead of race day.
What’s in the race packet?
The primary item is the individually numbered race bib, which is actually a square or rectangle sheet (generally coated with plastic or some water/sweat-resistant substance). This is to be attached to the front of the entrant’s shirt, identifying the runner and proving paid admission. (No bandits allowed!) It also helps race photographers to sort images for runners to find and possibly purchase after the race.
Some runners write their names on their bibs for crowd cheers.
The bib may or may not have a microchip for timing, or it might have a tear-off portion for manual/old-fashioned timing. It could also feature a tear-off for beer, post-race food, or other goodies.
Usually the bib has a bag check tag, on which the runner’s bib number is printed. Race staff (or volunteers) affix this to the individual’s bag or pack when it is checked in for holding till after the race. That tag is matched to the runner’s bib when the bag is claimed later.
Almost always, the race bib will be accompanied by four safety pins, for use in case a runner does not use his or her own bib magnets or clips.
What else is in the race packet?
Some races distribute runner packets that are filled with give-away merchandise – at least to early registrants. Such packets are frequently known as goody bags, much like those given out at children’s birthday parties.
Most often, such contents (also known as swag) will include a race tee, jacket, or hoodie (usually bearing the race emblem and often also displaying company logos of race sponsors). There might also be running-related trinkets, such as sports nutrition samples, refrigerator magnets, stickers, and such.
And there’s almost always a few promotional flyers, postcards, or coupons announcing future races or special sale events by running-related merchants.
All of this is usually contained in a plastic bag, an imprinted nylon string pack, or even a manila envelope.
Can a runner ask others to pick up his or her packet?
A friend or family member may be allowed to pick up a runner’s bib, but it’s important to confirm this ahead of time. A signed form, a copy of the runner’s driving license, or other confirmations may be required. Some race directors insist on advance notice for such arrangements. Others allow individuals to pick up multiple bibs for various entrants.
A few years ago, an acquaintance planned to go and procure race packets for about a dozen running friends for a military-themed race. But there was a catch, as he discovered arriving at the packet pick-up location. The facility was situated inside the gates of a military base, and appropriate identification documentation was required. Alas, he was not granted entry, and the group of runners had to grab their packets on race morning instead.
However it happens, packet pick-up is the go-to precursor to a running race – even if it’s as simple as obtaining the numbered race bib. Without that, no one crosses the start line when the race begins.
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- Race volunteers are both valued and violated
- The worst-run race I ever experienced ... and why
Image/s: Pixabay public domain photo
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