FAQ

General questions about the Run for the Cheetah

What is the Run for the Cheetah?

The Run for the Cheetah is a run in 3 cities (Chicago, Portland, and Phoenix) to raise money for Cheetah Conservation Fund. Chicago has a 5K run, Portland has 5K and 8K runs, and Phoenix has 5K and 1 mile.

What is Cheetah Conservation Fund?

Dr. Laurie Marker is Founder and Executive Director of the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF). A former Oregonian, Laurie Marker is a Time magazine “Hero for the Planet” award recipient, and is a world-renowned expert on the cheetah. CCF’s mission is “to secure habitats for the long-term survival of the cheetah and their ecosystem through multidiscipline and integrated programs of conservation, research and education.”

The fastest land animal on earth is also Africa’s most endangered big cat. With only 12,000 wild cheetah left, the cheetah could disappear within 20 years. With your help, CCF can maintain the programs that will help the cheetah win its race for survival.

The Cheetah Conservation Fund is a registered non-profit 501(c)(3) organization #31-1726923 in the United States. Visit www.cheetah.org for more information.

DONATIONS AND MEMBERSHIPS TO CCF ARE WELCOME

What percentage of the proceeds go directly to work in Namibia to save the Cheetah?

All of pledge money raised goes to CCF. Registration fees are designed to cover the costs of the event.

Costs and Fundraising

How much does it cost to register?

How much should I try to raise?

We are encouraging every participant to raise at least $50 to support your participation in this event. This money benefits CCF’s efforts to ensure the survival of the cheetah in the wild.

How can I get others to help?

When you register, you will get a pledge page created for you automatically, which will let you see how much you and your friends raise. Please send this to all of your friends, share it on Facebook, and otherwise encourage them to sponsor you in your run. It all goes to a good cause!

How can I volunteer?

More information is here .

I have a friend who would like to volunteer, can he help?

Yes, More information is here .

Can I sponsor the event?

Please do, we’d love your help.  Contact us.

Is there a course time limit?

There is no time limit, so please come join in!

Can I get a refund?

No, there are no refunds. It is logistically too complicated to make changes and refunds. This is clearly stated on the registration information.

Logistics

Where and when do I pick up my race packet?

Please see your city’s registration page.

Can someone else pick up my packet for me?

Yes

I cannot make it into the city. Can you mail me my packet?

Unfortunately we cannot mail packets but you can have someone else pick up your packet, or you may pick It up race day.

I cannot run/Walk, can I still get my packet?

Yes, of course, but someone will have to pick it up for you.

Can I change my shirt size from my registration request?

Unfortunately no. However, if there are shirts left over after the race, you may attempt to exchange.

The run itself

Are Strollers Allowed?

Yes, but they must start at the back of the runners at the start line.

Are dogs allowed?

Yes, but they must start at the back of the runners at the start line.

What is the timing?

Chicago will be using the d-Tag timing tag.  Portland will be using Championchip.

How are race results computed?

All competitors [runners and walkers] will receive a timing tag and bib as part of their race packet.  You may pick this up at the same time as you pick up your t-shirt. You must wear the tag on your shoe or bib [per the instructions on the packet] if you want to receive your race time. Any participant who does not wear the tag properly will not receive a finish result.

When will race results be posted?

Results will be posted within 48 hours on this website.

Additional information for Chicago: race results will be posted at the race shortly after the finish. Look for a table next to the Cheetah Conservation Booth adjacent to the finish line. Overall first place male and female finishers will receive a year membership to Cheetah Gym and an overall 1st Place Medal!

1st and 2nd place winners will receive a medal in 5 year age categories/male and female. All awards will be presented at the conclusion of the kids dash. Please stick around for your medals. (Age categories from 11-13, 14-19, 20-25, 26-30, 31-35, 36-40, 41-45, 46-50, 51-55, 56-60, 61-65, 66-older.)

Are baby carriers or baby backpacks allowed?

Only if you are walking.

Are bikes allowed?

Not on the course, but there are bike racks if you are coming to the event via bike.

Is the race open to walkers?

Absolutely!

Is there an age minimum or maximum?

For Portland and Phoenix, No.

For Chicago, children under 10 are asked to participate in the Kids Dash.  This is for the safety of runners as it is more difficult to keep small children on the designated path.

I cannot run.  Can I give my entry to someone else?

Unfortnately, no.  Due to USATF rules, every entrant must sign a waiver and selling, trading, and giving someone your entry is against USATF rules.

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