Note 1: I think this program went exceedingly well. 28 teams participated and only 1 had any true complaints. In the interest of always trying to do better, I am hoping to get a running commentary on the Pickle 66 in one place so we can add ideas for improvement or at least forward looking future stuff to make the event even better.
My notes include:
Interacting with Jones Racing?
- Better signage
- Make sure volunteers have updated documents
- Ask Jones to light all signage
Safety Consideration
- Personal visits to all local FD/PD 30 days before race
- More cars with flashers on 150/21
- Note – 4 cars needed to do flashers to slow traffic on McGuire station bridge
- Can we avoid 150/21 altogether?
- Look at course for implrovements on two longer, hilly legs
- Have one volunteer from each EZ drive to next site with flashers on for safety and protection
- Do we need a few cars on route around LKN State Park?
Race Registration Thoughts
- ?Space starting times more based on runners times
- Get Tshirts and coupons and give-aways packed into bags the night before
- Use only men's sizes for shirts to avoid sizing confusion for female runners
Other random thoughts
- Get Port-o-potty process in place 30 days out
- Use running groups on 'Meet up' to find bar/brewery based running groups. Send incogs 6 months in advance with flyers
- Approach Crossfit members
- Volunteer shirts
- Lets name it the Pickle 70 (logic here – if no one is offended by calling a race the Tuna 200 then pickle should stand)
- Approach Fleet Feet for assitance early. They are eager to help.
Sponsorhsips
- Offer the same tiers as last year – 250, 500, 1000 and 2500
- Determine charity/benefactor for proceeds well in April
- Offer EZ sponsorhsip free with resource commitments of 4 people or more
- Ensure 503c is in place
- Apply to Novant and Dicks months in advance
- Hit local coffee shops, bars, and restaurants
- Approach local crossfits and workouts 6 mos in advance
- Exclusive sponsorship means more financial commitment
- Find a start finish location – D9 or Galway are good choices – and get $1 per beer sold donated to foundation
- Coordinate with Town Chamber, Tourism Boards well in advance
- Need better media presense – have to figure that out