Lakota Optimist Club
Run For Youth
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is the Run held?
A: The run is held at West Chester's Voice of America Park. The park is located off of Tylersville Road, just past the new Target store area. Please enter the park from the COX ROAD entrance. Follow the signed to find the 'Run' parking.
Q: When should I arrive?
A: There can be over 600 participants in this run so it is a good idea to arrive early. If you need to pick up your number on the day of the Run or need to register, we recommend arriving by 12:00 noon.
Q: What if it rains on the day of the 'Run'?
A: We will delay the start of the 'Run' if there is lighting in the area. We start on time if there is only rain.
Q: How long does the Run last?
A: We start the first wave of runners at 1:00pm. The second wave starts ten minutes later. The lead runner completes the 1.5 mile distance much faster than our walking youngsters. We are usually finished presenting awards shortly after 2:00 pm.
Q: Who can participate in the Run?
A: The Run is designed as a running event for elementary age children (Kindergarten through sixth grade) and every child is encouraged to participate. The Optimists have various programs targeted at getting children from the Lakota Elementary Schools to participate, but we want all local children to feel welcome.
Q: Who gets awards? What Age groups are there?
A: EVERY participant who crosses the finish line gets awarded a ribbon to recognize their accomplishment. Medals are presented to the three fastest girls and three fastest boys in each grade level (Kindergarten through sixth).
Q: Can adults participate?
A: Yes. Many parents run with their children to encourage them along.
Q: Do parents need to register if they are going to run with their children?
A: We would like every runner to register. This is, after all, a fund raiser where 100% of the proceeds go back to the youth of our community. If a parent does not want to register, but still wants to run with their child, we ask that the unregistered parent DOES NOT CROSS the finish line. This makes it easier to get finish order and time correct.
Q: What distance is the Run?
A: The 'Run For Youth' is a 1.5 mile run.
Q: What does it cost to participate?
A: If you register before the cutoff on the race form, registering to participate in the 'Run For Youth' costs $10.00. If you want a race shirt, the cost increases to $20.00. If you register after the cutoff or on race day, participation will cost you $15.00. The race shirt will be an additional $10.00.
Q: Can I register online?
Q: Did you say 600 participants? How do you keep the younger children from getting run over?
A: We start our run in two waves. This limits the number of children to a more managable group in each wave.
Q: You didn't answer the question I have! How do I ask my question?
