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Big Muddy Run 2011

FAQs & Tips

What do I get with my registration?
You will get a unique and fun experience, including obstacles and mud pits, a race number, a long-sleeved shirt, a backpack with an Oktoberfest button and other goodies, free light refreshments, safety support on course, and the opportunity to support hands-on learning and play at Children’s Museum... If you raise additional donations, you can also earn more great prizes!
Can I register on the day of the race?
If the event has not sold out, day-of-race registration will be allowed at 9:00 am; however, we cannot guarantee that you will get a shirt or other race packet goodies.
When can I pick up my race packet?
Click here for schedule, including dates and times for packet pickup.
Can I have someone else pick my race packet up for me?
No. You must pick up your own packet and sign the waiver form.
Why $100?
It’s a fundraiser for the Children’s Museum of La Crosse, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization…AND it’s going to be a crazy, muddy, good time!
Your friends, family and co-workers will chip in to see you participate in this crazy, messy event—just ask them! Raise additional donations and earn special prizes. Click here for a complete list of prizes and amounts.
Will any other organizations benefit from this event?
Operation Homefront will be staffing the bag check-in area and will welcome donations to help military families.
We also encourage you to bring donations of new soap, shampoo and other personal hygiene or cleaning products to be donated to local shelters.
What are the age restrictions?
You must be at least 7 years old to participate. 7 to 10 year olds are limited to the 1 mile route, and must be accompanied by a registered adult. If your 7-10 year old does not have an adult available to run with him/her, contact us if you would like us to find a volunteer Run Buddy for your child. A paid adult may choose to run the 1 mile route with a paid child and then do the 5K on your own, as long as the child is chaperoned by someone else while you do the 5K run. A parent or legal guardian must sign the waiver for all participants under age 18. There is no maximum age. Age divisions are: Under age 12, 13-17, 18-24, 25-34, 35-44, 45-54, 55-64, 65+.
What should I wear?
  • You WILL get wet and dirty. We recommend you wear old, lightweight and comfortable clothing that adequately covers you.
  • Thick cotton sweatpants may be comfortable, but they will soak up a lot of water and get very heavy. Smooth nylon or spandex works well. Non-cotton ankle socks meant for running work best, as do ankle boots or running shoes with good tread. Crocs, sandals and slip-on shoes will not work. Some adventure runners duct tape their shoes to their feet, but if you do this, be careful not to tape too hard and cut off your circulation or tape over the tread on the soles. Anyone deemed inappropriately dressed or mannered by the Mud Marshalls may be asked to leave, with no refund of fees or donations.
  • Bring clean clothes and shoes, a towel, and big trash bags.
  • Leave all jewelry and valuables at home.
  • We recommend that you wear waterproof sunblock.
  • If you’re part of a team, you might want to all dress alike or similarly to add to the fun.
  • Costumes, for individuals or teams, are welcome as long as you can safely move around. There will be an award for the best costume.
Will there be a place to check my personal stuff during the race?
Operation Homefront representatives will be staffing a bag check-in area for your clean clothes, car keys, and other basics in exchange for optional donations to help military families. We suggest you have your name and contact information somewhere in or on the bag. Do not wear or bring valuables. We will not be responsible for lost or stolen items.
What types of obstacles can I expect?
Mud pits, hay bales, over and under crawls, tires and more!
I’ve never done an off-road run before…can I do this?
Yes! The course is designed to be accessible to the average person in reasonably good physical condition. Go at your own pace. You can choose the 5k-ish route or the 1 mile-ish route. Remember, this is supposed to be fun…watch out for your neighbors.
Will there be a time limit to finish the course?
The time limit for the 5k route is 1 ½ hours. The time limit for the 1 mile run is 40 minutes. Mud Marshalls will remain on the course until all participants have crossed the finish line.
Will there be awards?
Awards will be presented to the top three male and female finishers by age group for each run. Additional recognition may be made for other participants, such as best costume, dirtiest, etc.
Will there be showers for us to use to clean off after the run?
There won’t be showers like you have at home, but there will be water.
Will there be restrooms?
Myrick Park’s restrooms will be open throughout the event.
What do we do with our muddy shoes and clothes after the race?
We recommend you bring two big trash bags: one for your wet and muddy stuff and one to sit on in the car. We’ll have a dumpster on-site for anything you don’t want to keep. (We have checked into shoe recycling programs, but none accept damp or dirty shoes.) If you take dirty stuff home, rinse off as much mud as you can before you put them in your washing machine.
How can I volunteer?
We’d appreciate the help! Contact Christina at 608-784-2652 x226 or christina@funmuseum.org or register online at http://bigmuddyrunvolunteers.eventbrite.com/.
Will photos be taken? If so, how can I get copies?
A representative from the to La Crosse Camera Club will be on and around the course to caption every muddy minute! You will be notified how to download your free photo files from their website after the event.
What type of race timing will be used?
Each runner will receive a paper number, with a tear-off bottom. Please pin your number on the center of your chest, so the bottom portion can be torn off by timing officials when you cross the finish line.
I plan to be part of a team from work. Will we be timed as a group?
Teams are welcome and encouraged, but only individual results will be recorded and awarded.
What if it rains?
Better yet…more mud! The Big Muddy Run will be held, rain or shine.
Where can we park?
FREE parking is available in University of Wisconsin – La Crosse Commuter lots (labeled C-1, etc. on signs) or in designated section of Forest Hills Country Club parking lot. Click here for map.
Are there designated areas for spectators? Do they have to pay a fee to watch?
Spectators are welcome and will be admitted at no charge. Click here for a map.
Can I bring my dog or other pet?
Sorry. No pets allowed.
Are refreshments included in my registration? Will there be food and beverages for sale?
Water and fruit will be available for each paid participant.
No alcohol allowed before or during the event. Mud Marshalls have the right to expel anyone who appears to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol without refund of registration fees or donations.
Will there be entertainment?
Magic 105 Radio will be emceeing the event. After the Big Muddy Run, head to the north or south side Oktoberfest grounds for music, food, rides and more. Check www.oktoberfestusa.com for details.
What is the refund policy?
There will be no refunds.
Are strollers allowed?
No strollers are allowed on the 5k or 1 mile courses. Strollers are welcome in spectator areas.