Here are a few tips to make the spectator experience even more memorable:
Tip #1: Respect the Course
Help runners have a successful race by staying clear of course boundaries. This means don’t cross the course, stay on the curb or sidewalks as to not narrow the streets for runners and most importantly, listen to law enforcement and volunteers in regards to the best location to watch.
Tip #2: Timing Is Everything
You will want to find out the projected pace per mile for your runner to aid in determining where and when they should reach certain points in the course. It could take a runner 5 minutes to cross the start line, so timing should not be based on the start time. Adjust your projected viewing times following the first sighting of your runner.
Tip #3: Getting Around
It is highly recommended that if you are planning to be with your runner at the start and/or at the finish line, that you park early and remain downtown for the duration of race day. If you would like to observe the race from a spot outside of downtown, it’s recommended that you arrive early to your location, park in an appropriate parking spot, and remain in that location. Traveling from downtown to outside locations (or vice versa) will be difficult due to numerous road closures and relay runner shuttle activity. Also, keep in mind that it’s important to keep traffic congestion down for emergency vehicles.
Tip # 4: Information
If you need general information about race day, visit the S. Main Street Solutions Booth outside the finish line or inside Canal Park Stadium on the concourse. *Medical information on runners can be accessed at the Solutions Booth inside Canal Park Stadium on the concourse.
Tip #5: Get Noticed
Help your runner pick you out of the crowd by painting a sign or banner and wearing brightly colored clothing. Its also crucial to know your marathoner's bib number and how they are dressed. It's an imperfect science trying to time the convergence of a runner and spectator. If you suspect you've missed each other, move to the next viewing location.
Tip #6: For Family and Friends at Home, Use www.akronmarathon.org
If you cannot be at the race to support your runner, or will be home during the event and would like updates on your runner, use the Road Runner Akron Marathon website to determine your runner's latest split times through the instant results. If family or friends can't be present to chase after their runner, refer them to the website to keep tabs on the progress of the race.
Tip #7: Be Prepared
Be another resource along the course for your runner. Marathon water and GU stations will support runners; however, a good hand-off during the race might be a favorite snack or beverage. Consider the weather, as well. If it's raining, bring extra socks. If it is sunny, bring sunscreen. And as the day warms up, be ready to receive items from your runner as they shed extra clothing.
Tip #8: Link Up Post Race
Plan to meet your runner in Canal Park Stadium at a predetermined area or seating section.
Tip #9: Use Technology
Sign up for Text Messaging Tracking online or at the Health and Fitness Expo which sends alerts to cell phones, pagers and even blackberry’s as runners move across the timing mats throughout the course. By doing so, you can easily anticipate your runners arrival at your viewing area. Also, at the finish line there will be a kiosk station located on the concourse for instant race results and split times.
Favorite Cheers
Show your support for participants! Clap, shout, ring your cowbells, and bang your thunder sticks together! It’s always welcome and it gives runners an extra pep in their step. Here are some favorite cheers:
- Keep smiling!
- You’re looking awesome!
- Running smooth!
- You can do it!
- Way to run!
- One stride at a time!
- Way to focus!
- Stay relaxed!
- Keep it up!
- Way to go!
- Call out the runners name (on bib or shirt color).
- We support you!