GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS NEEDED TO BE A SUCCESSFUL RACE DIRECTOR
We all learn from our experiences. Having directed over 850 events during the past 30 years, I hope I have learned a few things myself about this business. Below I have listed a few bullet-point thoughts that may be of some help to you as you plan your race.
Visualization: being able to visualize every aspect of an event before it happens…one of the most important assets you can have.
Calm and quick thinking under pressure; you have to have a lot of patience.
Don't be intimidated by the challenge, no matter what “they” (anybody) say.
You need to be exceptionally well organized. Being prepared is absolutely critical; this business can be very labor intensive; don't leave to race day what you can do before race day.
Charisma and leadership qualities are beneficial; ability to surround yourself with hard working, dependable and experienced people; trust (to a point) your committee, however, always follow up, almost to a fault.
Realize it is great to be involved in a sport where you make people feel good about themselves and that they can live out their goals and that it all involves health and fitness.
PRE-RACE PLANNING TIPS
Scope of the event and the objectives: need to determine this first; why are you doing this? You best have a good answer.
Set reasonable goals and expectations: remember, though, it is “only” a road race, although it is a business, too, where many are depending on you.
Consider multiple distance events to attract more people, especially families…kid’s fun run, 5K, 5 mile, etc.
Choosing your course: critical to the long term success of the race. Arguably one of the most difficult and important aspects of the event planning.
Race application: if you use a race application in addition to online registration, don't skimp, this is your promotional piece, consult with your timing company as to exactly how they want to see it laid out.
Application distribution: stores, mailing lists, running clubs, health clubs…you need to have a distribution plan before you decide how many to print or they will just end up in the trunk of your car.
Distribution at other races: ask the race director first, place on car windshields, hand out at the finish line, place on event application tables…in the end, make sure you pick up those that are discarded.
Include older divisions: 70+, and go with 5-year age group intervals as you please more people that way.
Race packet: people have a tendency of equating the value they are receiving with what is in the bag, but make sure you have good items in the bag not just more paper.
Set up as much as is reasonably possible the day before the race, hire security to watch over it, do not leave for race day what you can do the day before; why plan for months and then rush?
Operations manual: this is your bible and everyone should produce one.
Budget: once set it will guide you and give you answers to most of your questions.
If you must limit the field size, always set aside enough entries to cover your special requests and those you most take care of.
Pretend event is 1-2 weeks before the actually date.
Planning for next year’s race actually starts even before this year's race…keep notes throughout the planning process.