Runners,
For the 2012 St. Luke’s Half Marathon and St. Luke’s 5k, we have decided to institute minimum ages for each race. The minimum age for the half marathon is 13; the minimum age for the 5k is 10. Youth runners need to be those respective ages on race day to be eligible to register and compete.
Instituting minimum ages was a strong recommendation of our insurance carrier, which we arrange through the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA). The minimum ages were established from discussions with medical professionals and youth coaches with the intent to (1) keep young runners safe and healthy and (2) provide them with a positive experience that will encourage them to continue running.
We understand that some young runners are able to satisfactorily complete the 13.1 and 3.1 mile courses. Many have in the past years. Nonetheless, we are inclined to follow the recommendations of the RRCA in this matter.
For parents who have contacted us about their inability to register their children: we apologize. We should have notified you of this decision before we opened registration. We hope you understand that it’s not a reflection of your children’s individual abilities. We further hope that your children consider running our races when they reach the minimum ages. In the meantime, an option would be our free St. Luke’s Youth Run on Saturday, April 28 at 3 p.m. https://stlukeshalfmarathon.com/youth-run/
Thank you.
Neal Novak
Race Director