Frequently Asked Questions
About the Race
When does the race begin?
Check each location for starting times.
What distances are available?
Run Santa Run is a 5k only.
Are there age restrictions at this event?
No, all ages are invited to participate. Children in strollers may participate free; all other children must be individually registered.
How is this race timed?
The race will be B-tag chip timed. This method provides a disposable timing chip on the back of your race bib. There is no need to return your bib or chip after the race.
Where can I see my results?
Race results will be posted LIVE to the Run Santa Run website. Individual results will be posted and available within minutes of crossing the finish line. Look for the results kiosk on race day to check your finish time and finish place on our big-screen TVs!
Are there pacing restrictions or a course cutoff time?
There are no course restrictions or cutoff times. All participants are welcome to take either course at their own pace (running, walking, or a combination). Please note that participants walking at a considerably slower pace than the bulk of participants may be asked to move to the sidewalks at police discretion to allow any impacted city streets to reopen.
Registration Questions
How do I register for this event?
You can register online with a credit card by finding your city location page's Register Now link. If you would like to mail payment instead (cash/check), you can download a registration form for your city on the same page. Please make checks payable to Greater Cleveland XC and mail to: 8791 Mentor Ave, Mentor OH 44060. Registration is also available in-person at any packet pickup time/location and on race morning.
Is it safe to register online with a credit card?
Yes. GCXC uses RunSignup registration system for online registration, which provides safe and secure payment processing. Your payment information will be protected by RunSignup. Your personal information will be protected by GCXC; we collect this information to ensure we are able to provide you with the best possible race day experience, and will never sell or share your information with any third party.
Is there a processing fee for registering online?
Yes, RunSignup registration includes a small credit card processing fee. This fee goes directly to Chronotrack and allows them to continue providing top-quality online registration services; this money is not collected by GCXC.
Can I register my whole family/group at once?
Yes. When registering online, you are able to add additional registrations to your cart before checking out. If registering through the mail, please complete ONE FORM PER PERSON. We require a waiver signed for each participant; incomplete registration forms will not be processed.
I did not receive a confirmation email, how do I know I am registered?
You can check your RunSignup account for ALL your currently registered races.
What do I get with my registration?
In addition to being a part of the best holiday race in the Midwest, all registered participants will receive a Santa theme event shirt, a Santa hat, Santa bag, Santa sunglasses, B-tag chip timing, and a finisher medal. Additional swag may be available from sponsors in each city. Some locations provide a free beer for all 21+ participants post-race. Check locations for details.
I am registered but unable to attend, can I still get my shirt/swag?
Yes, you are able to pick up your items at any of the packet pickups prior to race day. Some cities may have items left post-race. Please contact GCXC if you would like to schedule a post-race pickup: kelly@gcxcracing.com We DO NOT mail shirts/packets that are unclaimed.
Some of my registration information is incorrect, how can I correct the errors?
Please contact GCXC with updated information: kelly@gcxcracing.com
Packet Pickup Information
Will packet pickup be available before the race?
Yes, packet pickups will be held the day prior to each race. Check your location's event page for times and locations. You will also receive a pre-race email with packet pickup updates.
I am not able to make it to a pre-race pickup, can I get my packet on race day?
Yes, race day registration and packet pickup will take place at each race location from 8am to 9:15am.
Can I register at packet pickup?
Yes, you can register in person at a packet pickup with cash or check. Please note, online registration will still be open during packet pickups - if you would like to register with a credit card, please do so online.
I picked up my packet in advance, but lost or forgot my bib on race day, what do I do?
A new bib can be assigned to you on race morning, please attend race-day registration to receive a new bib.
Race Day Logistics
Where can I park on race day?
Parking for each venue will be indicated in your pre-race email.
Will there be bathrooms/portos available?
Yes, portos will be available at the start/finish line. No bathrooms will be provided on the course.
Are there water stops/aid stations along the course?
Yes, there will be one water stop along the route.
Can I run with my stroller?
Yes, strollers are allowed. Please consider your pace when lining up for the start - slower runners and walkers to the rear for your safety and the safety of all participants.
Can I run with my dog?
For the safety of you, your dog, and other runners, dogs are NOT allowed at Run Santa Run. Many of our venues also prohibit animals, so please leave your pets at home as they are also unable to spectate.
Can I wear headphones on the course?
Yes, headphones are allowed on the course. Please be courteous to runners around you: keep your volume low enough that you are able to hear passers or any course instructions given by volunteers.
Will there be bag check?
No, bag check will not be available at the race. Please DO NOT leave items at registration as the safety of your items cannot be guaranteed.
I won an award but was unable to stay to claim it, what are my options?
Please contact GCXC to make arrangements: kelly@gcxcracing.com
Will race photos be available?
Yes, all race day photos will be available on Facebook for FREE after the race! Finish line photos will be posted and automatically tagged with your bib number on your Athlinks results page.