Race the Roo Frequently Asked Questions

·  Am I fast enough?

That’s a great question! The pace is set to start nice and steady but it does get a little faster every lap. We would expect, for example, someone who can run Parkrun in 32 minutes to not only run their usual 5kms in but given the minute rest between each lap, should be able to run further than usual. Anyone who can run/walk or jog a kilometre is fast enough to beat the Roo for at least a lap. 

·  How long is the race?

That depends on you! Each lap is just over 1km and we’re confident that even the most 'beginner' of runners could complete that ahead of the Roo. The whole race could be up around 25km for the winners (depending on the calibre of entrants), provided they can handle both the distance and the pace. And if you are in between, like most of the participants, we expect that you can run further than usual! Because of the format... starting slowly and rests between laps, we’d expect a 5km runner to run much further than 5km and a 10km runner to run much further than 10km but they will be challenging themselves and upping the pace. There’s only really one way to find out... sign up and come along! 

·  Do I need to run every lap?

Yes, until you are eliminated.

·  Do I get a medal? 

Yes! The first 150 participants to enter receive a medal! 

·  Can I get my medal engraved?

Yes! We have a professional engraver there on Raceday, so once you finish and are given your medal you can head over and get your result engraved on the back for free!

·  Are there prizes?

Yes! There is $250 prize money for the overall winner of Race the Roo who will be the last individual remaining, or the winner of the last lap, in both male and female categories. And there will also be random prizes throughout, and not necessarily just for the fastest!

·  What's the best strategy to win?

Who knows!? The winner will need speed AND endurance.

·  Is there any rest time?

Yes! Even the Roo needs a rest! Between each lap there will be a 1 minute rest. This will give you plenty of time to catch your breath, grab a drink and get ready at the start line. And remember, if you finish a lap way ahead of the Roo you get even more rest time, as that 1 minute rest is from when he crosses the finish line to when he starts the next lap. 

 ·   What if I need a toilet break?

There will be a 5 minute break in the race after approx 90 minutes to allow for a toilet stop. Alternatively, you can use the toilets close by in the break between laps, but you need to be back at the start for the next lap. Best to run the lap before fast enough to give you time!

·  What do I need to bring?

Bring yourself (in your running attire), a refillable water bottle and enthusiasm! Simple. You might also want a jumper and a bit of cash in the car for drink and a snack after from the coffee van. 

·  Do I have to stay Far ahead of the Roo right from the start?

That’s up to you…You have to start each lap with the Roo and so long as you cross the finish line before him you’re still in the race. If you like to live dangerously you might like to cruise along with him and then beat him with your sprint finish each lap. Or you might like to find your own pace just ahead of him, particularly in those early laps where he’s going pretty steady. 

·  What happens if I fall behind the Roo?

You have right until the finish line to try to get ahead of him, but there will eventually be a lap when he beats you. You need to finish your lap, collect your medal and head off the track. 

·  What if I get beaten by the Roo and am out of the race really early?

Don’t worry! That just gives you more time to enjoy the atmosphere! You can get your medal engraved, grab a coffee and a snack, perhaps get a massage from our resident physio, and watch as the race starts to really hot up! 

·  Can I bring my kids?

Children over 10 can participate in the race. You’ll just need to sign them up just like yourself. The race precinct has plenty for littler kids to do, including a playground. 

·  Can I enter on the day? 

We recommend entering online before the race. Online earlybird race entry is $50 and is available until midnight on 1st June, and subsequently $60 until the Friday immediately prior to the race (26th July). On the day you can enter, but only if the race hasn’t sold out. 

·  Can I run with my dog?

No, dogs are not permitted on the run course during the race. Dogs are welcome in the race precinct provided they are on a lead, and are kept at least five metres away from children’s playground.

·  Can I run with a stroller?

Yes, but for health and safety reasons we ask you to start at the back of the pack. Don’t worry, we expect the pack to spread out across the 1km so you should easily have the space to make it to the finish ahead of the Roo. 

·  Is there parking?

Yes, there is parking onsite. We'd still recommend car pooling if you can to help save space. 

·  What time should I get there?

The race starts at 8am but you must register before 7.45am. Registration will be open from 7.00am. At registration you will receive your race wrist band.