FAQS: FREQUENTLY AWESOME QUESTIONS
Are baby strollers allowed on course?
Yes, please start in the back of the pack and stay to the right, when out on course, so runners can safely pass.
How Can I Defer, Switch Events, Transfer, Gift, or Add-on items to my registration?
We offer several great options to transfer to another event or defer to a future year. To make those edits, please visit RunSignup.com. We also offer insurance if purchased with your original entry - claims can be placed here.
Where does the race start?
The race starts at 8:30am on El Embarcadero between Lakeshore Ave and Grand Ave in front of the Lake Merritt Pergola.
Can one person from a family/group/team pick up all packets?
Yes, no problem. Have your designated person meet us at one of our Packet Pickup Events to pick up shirts, bibs and timing chips.
Are bikes, hoverboards, scooters, skateboards, push bikes, unicycles or wagons allowed on course?
No, due to safety concerns, only baby strollers/joggers and wheelchairs are allowed on the course. We ask those with baby strollers/joggers to stage toward the back of the start line chute and stay to the right to not impede faster participants.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, for the safety of all participants, please keep your pup leashed at all times and start at the back of the pack to avoid tripping.
Can I walk the 5K course?
Yes, we just ask that you complete the course in one (1) hour or less, which is a 20 minute per mile pace. Roads will reopen at 9:30, so please be sure to check your pace to ensure a positive experience.
Where can I register for the 5K on race day?
If not sold out, you can register for the 5K and Run for Wild Life presented by the Oakland Zoo near the start line in Eastshore Park @ Lake Merritt.
Where do I register for the Run for Wild Life Kids Event on race morning?
You can register your child starting at 7am at the Registration tents.
Where / when do we pick up our event shirts, timing chips & bibs?
Please visit our Packet Pickup Event page.
What happens if my bib does not arrive in the mail?
No problem! Sometimes things get lost in transit but we can easily fix this at packet pickup or on race day morning!
I got my packet mailed to me, what should be inside?
Just your bib and a beanie if you ordered one! The shirt can be picked up on race day morning or at packet pickup!
What is the Run for Wild Life kids event?
Run for Wild Life presented by the Oakland Zoo is a kids fun run for 2-8 year olds. It’s starts on Lakeshore (main start) and finishes on Grand Ave (main finish) at 9:40am. All ages run a 200 yard dash along El Embarcadero and parents are free to accompany the little ones. All registered kiddos get a Run for Wild Life t-shirt & finishers medal.
Where do I park on race morning?
With the holiday, all meters are free and there is quite a bit of street parking available along Lakeshore and Grand Ave. We strongly suggest carpooling and arriving early, so we’re able to close streets and start the race on time.
Where are the restrooms?
Restrooms are located on the northeast corner of the Eastshore Park festival area (behind the jumpy houses), along with hand washing stations.
Where will official results be posted?
After the race, results will be posted on our results page @ OTT.RUN.