Run Etiquette

In the interest of promoting an enjoyable running experience for everyone, Newcastle Cross Country encourages good runners’ etiquette. Whether running in a group or running alone, always follow the Marshall's instructions.

Whatever the pace, wherever the race, manners matter.

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Go with the flow

If running on multi-use paths or trails, run in the direction of traffic, staying to the left of the trail. To pass another person, first check over your shoulder to make sure no one is coming up behind you. If the coast is clear, give the person you’re passing a heads-up by saying “On your right!”

On narrow trails, people running uphill should yield to the people running down. You do not want to be in the way of someone with gravity on her side.

Pay attention

Pay attention to the pre-run instructions. This is not the time to be blaring your favorite song on your personal music device.
​When running obey the marshals instructions and don’t forget to greet them or thank them as you go by. Remember they are out there looking out for your safety.

Finishing 

Once you have crossed the finish line, keep moving forward so that other runners don't run into the back of you. Stay in finishing order until you collect your place card.

Immediately make your way to the registration area to have your cards scanned.  The volunteers don't want to hang around all afternoon while you are off chatting to friends etc.

Don't get pushy

Start in an orderly fashion. Do not push or jostle for a better position as the participants will spread out and you will be able to run your race.

Use common sense

Use common sense. Do you really think it’s smart to run with your earbuds so loud you can feel it in your toenails?

​​Do not block runners coming up behind you by swerving needlessly back and forth across the course.

​If you are walking in a group, stay to the back of the pack and follow the two abreast rule.

Move to the side if someone behind you says “excuse me” or “on you’re your right”. The person behind you is giving you a heads up before passing. It’s proper race etiquette to let that person pass you without blocking their effort.

Decelerate by stepping to the left hand side, or take a glimpse behind you first to make sure no one is immediately on your tail.

Assisting another runner

If you are in a trail race and you see someone fall or hurt themselves, you are no longer racing – you are helping. If someone needs assistance, you are that assistance.

At the end of the day, it’s not hard to practice courtesy and good etiquette for running. It barely takes any effort and, even if it were to slow you down it would be worth it to show respect and kindness to others. Not everyone is perfect all of the time, but every little effort matters!