Frequently Asked Questions
Latest update, July 2010
This is my first event, what should I expect?
First off, thanks for trusting Crate Escape Racing for your first race. So you've heard about trail running but never tried it? No worries! We're highly experienced trail runners, avid mountain bikers, outdoor orienteering/navigation experts, and seasoned adventure racers. Also, we know a thing or two about event planning and event operations. So, you can expect a well organized, safe 5K trail race, fun for you and your pup!
What is the race course like? Will I get lost?
Crate Escape Racing specializes in designing race courses that are fast, well marked, and most importantly, dog friendly. There's no pavement, only scenic views, lots of wildlife, and pure central Florida habitat. The race course is always well marked with flags and signage and most often you'll be running on well maintained trails. But, we like a challenge, so a surprise "shortcut" can be expected. While trails in Florida can be quite sandy, we design our courses to be dog friendly and well suited for fast running.
Do I need a dog to participate?
No, but beware - after this event you may find yourself wanting a dog!
Can I have a 4 person team and bring my 12 dogs?
Unfortunately, no. Teams are limited to a maximum of 3 people. Each team may have up to two dogs. If you have more people and/or more dogs, please break them up into smaller teams. Teams must stick together in the race. Team finish times are calculated when the last teammate crosses the finish line.
Is there a minimum age of me or my dog?
Minimum human age for a racer is 10. Minimum puppy age is 16 weeks. Puppies should have all their shots, per the race rules.
I'm nervous about my reaction or my dog's behavior around other dogs, should I sign up?
As with any social event, good manners are expected. Well socialized dogs (and people for that matter) are a must! If your pup frequently visits dog parks, doggy day care, doggy play dates, and is great around strangers, then by all means, come race with us. However, if you are scared to death of dogs and/or horrified by the thought of being off the pavement, then this event probably isn't for you.
How long is the race?
We've designed the race to be as close to a 5 km (3.3 miles) as possible. Since this is trail running, we don't expect too may 6 minute miles. If this is your first race or casual sidewalk jogger, plan to be on the trail for about 45 minutes.
What should I bring with me?
Crate Escape Races are a mass start, first-to-finish race.
Will there be prizes?
Yes, we will have prizes. But the prize categories are a closely guarded secret, revealed the day of the race. Potential prizes could include top overall team, fastest dog, smallest dog, youngest racer, etc. It's a secret, so don't bother asking :)
Will there be giveaways, race swag, and vendors?
Hopefully, but to be honest, it all depends on you! We want to offer shirts, koozies, doggy bandanas, and other swag. We certainly hope to have enough racers to be able to do this, so please, register early and invite your friends!
Does the race benefit a charity, ASPCA, or other non-profit?
Every race is different but we strive to donate a portion of proceeds to a charity. Rest assured, the "profit" from our races goes directly back to planning and hosting future events.
Have a question not answered above?
Drop us a line.
This is my first event, what should I expect?
First off, thanks for trusting Crate Escape Racing for your first race. So you've heard about trail running but never tried it? No worries! We're highly experienced trail runners, avid mountain bikers, outdoor orienteering/navigation experts, and seasoned adventure racers. Also, we know a thing or two about event planning and event operations. So, you can expect a well organized, safe 5K trail race, fun for you and your pup!
What is the race course like? Will I get lost?
Crate Escape Racing specializes in designing race courses that are fast, well marked, and most importantly, dog friendly. There's no pavement, only scenic views, lots of wildlife, and pure central Florida habitat. The race course is always well marked with flags and signage and most often you'll be running on well maintained trails. But, we like a challenge, so a surprise "shortcut" can be expected. While trails in Florida can be quite sandy, we design our courses to be dog friendly and well suited for fast running.
Do I need a dog to participate?
No, but beware - after this event you may find yourself wanting a dog!
Can I have a 4 person team and bring my 12 dogs?
Unfortunately, no. Teams are limited to a maximum of 3 people. Each team may have up to two dogs. If you have more people and/or more dogs, please break them up into smaller teams. Teams must stick together in the race. Team finish times are calculated when the last teammate crosses the finish line.
Is there a minimum age of me or my dog?
Minimum human age for a racer is 10. Minimum puppy age is 16 weeks. Puppies should have all their shots, per the race rules.
I'm nervous about my reaction or my dog's behavior around other dogs, should I sign up?
As with any social event, good manners are expected. Well socialized dogs (and people for that matter) are a must! If your pup frequently visits dog parks, doggy day care, doggy play dates, and is great around strangers, then by all means, come race with us. However, if you are scared to death of dogs and/or horrified by the thought of being off the pavement, then this event probably isn't for you.
How long is the race?
We've designed the race to be as close to a 5 km (3.3 miles) as possible. Since this is trail running, we don't expect too may 6 minute miles. If this is your first race or casual sidewalk jogger, plan to be on the trail for about 45 minutes.
What should I bring with me?
- LEASH - all dogs must be on a leash before, during and after the race.
- Dog potty bags - please don't litter either
- Drinking water for you and your dog
- Sunscreen, hat and/or sunglasses
- Jogging shoes (boots are highly discouraged)
- Chairs for post-race awards ceremony
- Picnic basket for post-race awards ceremony
- Towel for clean up before heading home
Crate Escape Races are a mass start, first-to-finish race.
Will there be prizes?
Yes, we will have prizes. But the prize categories are a closely guarded secret, revealed the day of the race. Potential prizes could include top overall team, fastest dog, smallest dog, youngest racer, etc. It's a secret, so don't bother asking :)
Will there be giveaways, race swag, and vendors?
Hopefully, but to be honest, it all depends on you! We want to offer shirts, koozies, doggy bandanas, and other swag. We certainly hope to have enough racers to be able to do this, so please, register early and invite your friends!
Does the race benefit a charity, ASPCA, or other non-profit?
Every race is different but we strive to donate a portion of proceeds to a charity. Rest assured, the "profit" from our races goes directly back to planning and hosting future events.
Have a question not answered above?
Drop us a line.