Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the date and location of the NMSU Gratitude Walk/Run?
The event will take place on Saturday, September 13, at the Horseshoe located on NMSU’s Las Cruces campus.
2. What time does the event start?
The 5K event will start at 9:15 a.m. and the 1-mile fun run will start at 9:30 a.m.
3. Where can I find course maps?
View course Routes.
4. What is the purpose of this event?
Our goal is to encourage engagement among the NMSU campus and Las Cruces communities. A walk/run is a unique, active and fun way to bring everyone together to enjoy our beautiful campus. Proceeds generated from the event are not profited but used to cover expenses associated with event setup.
5. How can I register?
Register online [here].
6. Can I register on event day?
Yes, however, there will be a $5 increase in fees if you choose to register the day of. To save time and avoid unnecessary delays, registering online the day before the event is highly encouraged.
7. How can I confirm my registration?
Click [here] to confirm.
8. What is the registration cost?
Registration for the 5K is $20 per person plus taxes and fees, and for the 1-Mile Fun Run, $10 per person plus taxes and fees. Registration is free for children ages 0-12 for both race events. If registering on the day of the event, there will be a $5 increase in fees for both race events.
9. Why is there a processing fee?
Race Roster adds standard fees for support, tech and platform services.
10. Why do I see extra charges on my registration (plus taxes, processing fees included)?
As of May 12, 2025, federal law requires all mandatory fees to be included in displayed pricing for audience-based events. Race Roster will automatically calculate and display total pricing, including processing fees, on participant pages. Taxes will be added at checkout.
For more information about these changes, please refer to the Federal Trade Commission's Final Rule on Junk Fees and related guidance on pricing transparency.
11. Can I pay with cash or check?
We will not be accepting cash or check payments for this year’s event. Please pay with a card only.
12. Who gets a free T-shirt?
The first 200 registrants are eligible to receive a free t-shirt which can be picked up on the Friday before the event.
13. What if they do not have my size of T-shirt?
Sizes are based on a first come first serve. We have limited sizes so be the first to register.
14. How do I join or create a team?
To create a 5K team, follow the instructions outlined on the Create/Join a 5K team page. You'll need a team name and code. Teams must have four or more members. Deadline: Friday before the event at 11:59 p.m.
15. Are the races timed?
Yes, both the 1-mile fun run and 5K events will be timed.
16. Where can I find my results?
Results are posted shortly after the race on the home page you will see a View Results tab.
17. Who do I contact about timing issues?
To help you with questions regarding your results please contact Scott Fister at 575-496-6792.
18. What is a race bib?
A race bib records your time.
19. Can I be disqualified?
Rules to be sure you do not get disqualified [here]
20. When and where do I pick up my bib?
All participants are encouraged to pick up their race bibs before the day of the event. Race bib pickup will take place on Friday, September 12, at the Corbett Center Student Union on NMSU’s Las Cruces campus.
21. What if I can’t pick up my bib Friday?
A pick-up alternative is available Saturday, the day of the event, between 8–9 a.m. under the large horseshoe tent. We highly recommend to please pick up your bib on Friday to avoid long lines.
22. What should I bring?
Bib, running shoes, sun protection, water bottle and weather-appropriate attire. The event will take place rain or shine!
23. Will Aggie Cupboard be there?
Yes, we also encourage all participants to bring non-perishable items as donations for the Aggie Cupboard which supports NMSU community members facing adversity and food insecurity.
24. Is parking free?
NMSU offers free parking on evenings and weekends. Parking permits are enforced Monday-Friday. Free parking lots and metered parking are available to those who do not have a parking permit and are picking up their race bibs the day before the event.
25. Will there be awards?
All finishers get medals. The top three male and female 5K finishers receive 1st, 2nd and 3rd place medals.
26. How do I volunteer?
Spots are limited as students can receive community service credit hours for the organizations that they are affiliated with. Please see the Registration/Volunteer page to sign up.
27. What’s the volunteer deadline?
The deadline to sign up as a volunteer is Wednesday, September 4 at 5 p.m. Volunteer opportunities are not guaranteed for those who do not fill out a volunteer form before the aforementioned deadline.
28. Where can I view 2024 results?
Results available [here].
29. Will there be photos?
Yes, posted in the weeks after the event [Gratitude Walk/Run Photos].
30. Can I change my race type?
Yes, however, you will be asked to pay the difference if changing your race event from the 1-mile fun run to the 5K. You will receive a partial refund if you change your race event from the 5K to the 1-mile fun run. To change your race event, visit the Transfer page.
31. Can I get a refund?
No refunds will be given. You may transfer your entry to someone else [here].
32. Deadline to transfer entry?
The deadline is Friday, the day before the event at 11:59 p.m. You will not be able to change your race event after this date.
33. Will there be water stations?
Yes, there will be three water stations along the routes, located near the mile markers on the maps.
34. Will food be available?
Yes, food trucks are onsite so please bring a source of payment. There will also be free snacks and water (while supplies last).
35. Are restrooms available?
There are two restroom areas in the NMSU Atkinson Recital Hall and the Aggie Memorial Stadium.
36. Are routes marked?
There will be mile markers, directional signs, tape and bike leads that will guide you along the routes.
37. What if I get lost?
Volunteers, course marshals and bike leads are along the routes to help provide directions.
38. What safety measures are in place?
In addition to barricading necessary roadways, ensuring traffic cones separate bike and driving lanes, deploying crossing guards at busy intersections and strategically positioning course marshals along the 1-mile fun run and 5K routes, we'll also have first aid kits available at the start/finish line and both water stations. Additionally, the NMSU Fire Department has been notified about the event and will be available in case of emergencies.
39. Will there be other activities?
Yes! More information to come.
40. Can I bring my dog?
Yes! But please make sure to clean up after them.
41. If I am a Student or MarComm volunteer, how do I know what duties I signed up for?
View your dashboard or check the Confirm Registration/Volunteer Duties tab. For detailed information about your role, please see our volunteer guides online.
42. Who can I contact with questions?
Email mktgserv@nmsu.edu or call 575-646-3221.
