FAQ and all the things you wanted to know
What is a chip? A chip is a miniature transponder in a specially designed plastic housing. This device contains a chip in combination with an energizing coil. These elements are encased in a waterproof glass capsule, which allows use of the ChampionChip under all conditions. The chip is attached to the runners’ shoelace and tied securely so it does not fall out during the race. There are no batteries in the chip. The transponder is passive until moved into a magnetic field that is generated by a sending antenna in mats along the finish line. The energizing coil then produces a current, charging the chip and the transponder sends its unique identification number to the receiving antenna. This process takes about 60 milliseconds and occurs continuously. The antenna mats are connected into a computerized system which then matches the runners chip signal, the runners’ time and runners name, age and gender to produce accurate, fast race results. Chip systems are capable of handling large numbers of runners. For example, during the New York City Marathon start the systems handle about 5,000 runners per minute. REMEMBER TO ATTACH THE CHIP TO YOUR SHOE, DO NOT PUT IT IN YOUR POCKET OR ON YOUR SHIRT. IF IT IS NOT ON YOUR SHOE, YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE A TIME.
Can I use my own chip? Yes, just make sure you put your individual chip number on your application, and inform the registration table that you will be using your own chip. You can also report to the start line or finish line prior to the start of the race and let the timing company know you have your own chip. If you are issued another chip on race day you can also wear both in the event you cannot inform the timing personnel.
What happens if I lose/forget my chip on race day? If you lose/forget your chip on race day you will need to register to get another chip assigned. You will not be timed without a chip. All lost chips will incur a $30.00 charge for replacement.
What time does the last shuttle leave Union Point Park for the race start? The last shuttle leaves Union Point Park for the start line at 7:30 a.m. sharp.
Will the roads be closed during the race? The passenger lane of west-bound Hwy. 70 will be closed to traffic and coned off during the race. Once runners/walkers have entered the city limits (for 10K participants), roads will be opened to traffic. Course monitors and law enforcement will be present to direct traffic and stop traffic at major intersections. Runners and walkers must be alert at all times.
Will the race be held if it rains? Yes, the event will be held rain or shine. Race officials reserve the right to cancel the race if inclement weather poses hazardous conditions to the participants.
What is the slope of the Neuse River Bridge? Is the course hilly? The maximum grade of the bridge is 6%.
What is the weather like this time of year? The average high temperature in October is 74 degrees, average low is 53 degrees, and the mean temperature is 64 degrees. Average precipitation is 3.39 inches.
What are the age restrictions of the Neuse River Bridge Run? You must be at least 10 years of age to participate. All minors under the age of 18 must have a parent/guardian sign the waiver.
Where do the proceeds go from the race? Neuse River Bridge Run proceeds will support programs for the overall health of our community through the following nonprofit organizations: Craven Regional Medical Center Foundation, Promise Place, Craven Arts Council & Gallery, Inc., Mediation Center of Eastern Carolina, MERCI Clinic, Inc., Religious Community Services of New Bern, Inc., Twin Rivers YMCA, and Coastal Women’s Shelter, Inc.
I've already registered for the race, but would like to make a contribution to one of the participating agencies. How do I do that? Please make checks payable and mail to Neuse River Bridge Run, P.O. Box 1302, New Bern, NC 28563-1302.
I'm not a big runner, but I love to walk. Can I walk in this race? Yes, you can walk in this event. However, 10k walkers are encouraged to keep a steady pace to keep up with the majority of participants.
How late can I register? Runners and walkers can register as late as the morning of the event. Race-day registration will take place at Union Point Park from 6:30 a.m. until 8:00 a.m. The fee is $30.00 for race-day registration, and t-shirts will be given on an as-available basis on race day.
Are refunds available? There are no refunds available. Registration fees collected will be considered a donation to the nonprofit agencies promoting the event.
Where is the starting line? The event starting line for the 10k is located outside the Food Lion parking lot in Bridgeton, just off Hwy. 55 West. 5K runners and walkers will be escorted by highway patrol to their starting line, which is approximately .5 mile away from the main starting line. The starting line for the 5k run is just outside Union Point Park, and participants will be escorted to the starting line.
I want to volunteer, what do I do? We need hundreds of volunteers for this event. Please see the VOLUNTEER page of this website.