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FAQ's for The Run for Autism

Q1. What is the Run for Autism?
A1. The Run for Autism is a 5k and 10k run. The 5-K is a 'Fun Run/Walk', so participants are welcome to take the course at their own pace... sprint, walk, run or roll! The 10k segment is a competitive event for more serious runners, which will be chip-timed.
Q1a. Are roller blades, skateboards, etc. allowed? A1a. Unfortunately, this event cannot accommodate roller blades, skateboards, etc.
Please note: Unforeseen logistical issues and road construction have unexpectedly caused us to amend this year's route, therefore the 10-K will not be certified as planned. However, please note that the course has been carefully re-planned to assure both course integrity and distance.

Q2. Are pets allowed?
A2. No. We love pets but, unfortunately, they cannot be involved in this event. Of course, service animals are always welcome.

Q3. Is this a child-friendly event?
A3. Yes, children are welcome. We have categories for participants of all ages. We ask that participants with strollers be considerate of runners who are working on achieving their best race time by making sure paths are not impassible by runners.

Q4. Where do my donations go?
A4. Your donations will benefit two local non-profit organizations - Homes for Autism and OUCARES. Homes for Autism provides and maintains houses for adults with autism and developmental disabilities. For more information, visit www.homesforautism.org. OUCARES is Oakland University's Center for Autism Research, Education and Support, where families and individuals dealing with an Autism Spectrum Disorder can come for therapy, recreational activities and general support. Visit our website at www.oakland.edu/oucares for more information.

Q5. How much does it cost for me to attend?
A5. The run has registration fees for adults and students (ages 5-20), team registration rates and sponsorship opportunities for individuals, families, and businesses. Rates are $25 per adult and $15 per student for pre-registration. Register today! Registration on the day of the event increases to $30 per adult and $20 per student. There is no cost for children 7 and under to participate in the Run for Autism.

Q6. Will this race be chip-timed?
A6. We are happy to announce that the race will have Chip-Timing through Gault Race Management.

Q7. Can I bring a stroller?
A7. Yes, you are welcome to bring a stoller for the 5K walk or run. For logistical reasons, please no strollers for the 10k run.

Q8. Can I walk any event?
A8. If you wish to walk, for logistical reasons, we ask that you participate in the 5-K. There should be lots of other walkers to keep you company!

Q9. When and where does the race start?
A9. Registration for the event starts promptly at 8 a.m. in the Oakland Center on the Oakland University campus. There will be signs around campus clearly directing you to the Oakland Center as well as the starting line. Click here for a map of the route.

Q10. Can I be a volunteer for the race?
A10. Yes!! Email oucares@oakland.edu for details. You can download a volunteer form by clicking here.

Q11. How can I get involved in Homes for Autism and OUCARES?
A11. You can volunteer at events such as the Run for Autism, become a sponsor of organizations or attend our programs. Visit www.homesforautism.org and www.oakland.edu/oucares for more information.

Q12. Where do I park?
A12. Parking will be available on the Oakland University campus in parking lot 5. Both signs and volunteers will be conveniently located to direct you on the day of the event.

Q13. Which campus roads and parking lots will be closed for this race?
A13. Roads on parts of Oakland University's main campus will be closed between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. After 11:00 a.m. all campus roads will be open for vehicle traffic. Click here for a map of the route to see what areas of the campus will be closed on Sunday May 16th from 9 am to 11 am.

Q14. What happens if it is raining the day of the event?
A14. Whether it rains or shines, registration will be held inside the Oakland Center and our event is on!

Q15. How is this race being timed?
A15. We are very happy to say that Gault Race Management has been hired to facilitate our event; the 10-k will be chip-timed. Please note: as the 5-k is a "fun-run," it will not be chip-timed; however, volunteers will be present at the finish line to announce times.

Q16. Will there be prizes?
A16. The top four teams (based on the amount of money they raise), and the individual with the largest amount of money raised will receive prizes. Also, the overall top three individuals in the 10-k will receive prizes and the top three 10-k finishers in the five age categories (17 and under, 18-25, 26-35, 45+) will receive medals.

Q17. Are roller blades, skateboards, etc. allowed?
A17. Unfortunately, this event cannot accommodate roller blades, skateboards, etc.