Frequently Asked Questions
REGISTRATION & PACKET PICK-UP QUESTIONS
How do I register?
Online registration at MuleKick5K.com is preferred. Online registration is available until the race begins on October 23. For questions about registration, call the Maury Regional Health Care Foundation at 931.380.4075.
What if I signed up to compete in the April 2020 race that was postponed?
Those individuals who previously registered and paid to participate in the postponed 2020 race have been automatically registered to participate in the race on October 23, 2021, with no further action or payment required. Not sure if you already registered? Click here to confirm your registration or call the Maury Regional Health Care Foundation office at 931.380.4075.
When do we receive our packets?
Packet pick-up will take place during a convenient and socially distanced drive-through on Friday, October 22, from 3 to 6 p.m. in the parking lot of Riverside Elementary School (203 Carter St, Columbia, TN 38401), which is located across the street from Riverwalk Park.
Participants are strongly encouraged to pick up their packets via the drive-through event on Friday; however, packet pick-up will also be available on the morning of the race (October 23) from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. at the Farmer's Market Pavilion in Riverwalk Park. Tables will be set up under the pavilion with markers on the floor to allow for appropriate social distancing.
What will we receive during packet pick-up?
You will receive your race T-shirt, race number, timing tag and race goody bag.
Can I pick up a packet for a friend of family member?
Yes, but you will need to know their date of birth.
Am I guaranteed a race shirt?
All pre-registered participants signed up at least ONE WEEK IN ADVANCE are guaranteed the race shirt size they requested during the registration process. Late sign-ups are not guaranteed the shirt size of their choice as shirts will be given on a first-come, first-serve basis. However, we will do our best to get everyone the shirt size they want.
Will I be able to change my shirt size?
You will not be able to exchange your shirt until after the race. We will have an area for shirt exchange after the race for those wishing to exchange their shirts. You will be given the shirt size you ordered during registration with no exceptions.
How can I get a race shirt if I do not want to participate?
You may register as a spirit runner to receive a race shirt. You do not have to compete if you do not wish to do so. You may pick up your shirt at any of the packet pick-up locations.
What type of timing is being used?
Start 2 Finish Event Timing will be timing the event. Your timing chip will be on the back of your racing number bib. Participants must wear their number on the FRONT of their outer most garment.
RACE DAY QUESTIONS
Where is the race located?
Riverwalk Park, which is located at 102 Riverside Drive in Columbia, Tennessee.
What time does the race start?
5K: 8 a.m.
1-Mile Trot: 9:15 a.m.
Where does the race start?
The race begins at Riverwalk Park in downtown Columbia. Please see the Course Map page of the website for further details.
What safety precautions are in place to reduce risk for COVID-19?
Based on current CDC guidance and recommendations from our medical advisors, we have implemented several new safety measures for the 2021 Mule Kick 5K & 1-Mile Trot that prioritize our racers' health and wellbeing, including mask recommendations and social distancing. Click here to learn more about our commitment to safety.
Do I need to wear a face mask?
Masks are requested. Participants are asked to wear a face covering during all non-competition times, including packet pick-up as well as pre- and post-race at the start/finish line. Masks will be provided to anyone who would like one.
What if it is raining/snowing on race morning?
The race will happen rain, snow or shine unless severe weather conditions occur.
Could the race be cancelled due to COVID-19?
Race officials will continue to monitor and assess the state of COVID-19 in the region in the days leading up to the race. Any changes will be communicated to participants via email, this website and at Facebook.com/MuleKick5K. As a reminder, race registrations are nonrefundable and will be rolled to the new postponed date in the event of a cancellation due to COVID-19.
When should I arrive?
If you have already registered for the race, plan to arrive between 15 to 20 minutes before race time.
If you have not picked up your packet or registered, please arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes in advance of the race beginning.
Where do I park?
All participants can park at Riverside Elementary, the Riverwalk parking lot or across the Riverwalk Bridge on the perimeter of downtown Columbia.
How will the race begin?
Five minutes before the 5K begins at 8 a.m., participants will be called to line up for the first wave by taking their place at socially distanced markers behind the starting line. Participants' times begin and end when crossing the start and finish lines, respectively, so placement in the lines and waves will not impact final times.
Are baby joggers/baby strollers allowed in the race?
Yes, strollers are allowed.
Are walkers allowed to participate?
Yes, but please start toward the back of the pack.
Are runners allowed to run with dogs?
Dogs are NOT allowed at the Mule Kick 5K & 1-Mile Trot.
Can we participate as a relay team?
No.
When are the awards?
As part of our COVID-19 safety precautions, there will not be an in-person awards ceremony following the race. After completing the 5K and/or 1-Mile Trot, we ask participants not to linger at the finish line or in the park. Results from the race will be streamed later in the day at Facebook.com/MuleKick5K and awards will be mailed to the winners the following week.
What are the awards?
Please see the Awards page on the website.