Corral Smarts for a Smooth Start

June 6, 2023

With an event field that routinely welcomes thousands of participants, Bellin Run organizers have gotten good at ensuring a smooth start. The key to that effort is our corral system, which groups participants by estimated pace so those of similar speeds will run or walk together.

For the first time ever, this year’s Bellin Run will include a 5K distance — and we’re pumped! Runners and walkers should be aware that the 10K and 5K events will start together, so the information in this post applies to all participants, regardless of distance.

This year’s event also involves a change in corral location, such that all four corrals will be positioned on Webster Avenue and Cass Street. Page 5 of our event guide has a helpful corral map, and ample signage and race officials will be on hand to assist participants on race morning.

There are a few additional corral tips for all of our participants to keep in mind:
• Arrive early! Get to your assigned start corral with plenty of time to spare. Arrive at the event no later than 7 a.m. so you have time to use the bathroom and warm up before heading to your corral. Look for our pre-race hydration stations in the center of Baird Place Park.
• Make sure your race bib is visible. This will help our volunteers ensure everyone makes it into the appropriate corral.
• If you want to move, move back. Anticipating a slower pace than you initially thought? Want to run with a slower friend or relative? You’re welcome to move back a corral (e.g., from Corral 2 to Corral 3), but not forward.
• Be courteous. Our corral system does a good job of spreading out the race field, but things can still get a little crowded as 8 a.m. nears. Make sure you’re aware of your surroundings and be courteous to those around you. Be friendly and start with a smile!

Keep it cool in the corral and we’ll all have an awesome event. See you at the start line!