FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Rumpshaker 5K?
A fun, family-friendly run/walk event created to bring awareness about colorectal cancer to Alabama. We were voted “Best 5K in Birmingham” in 2011 by Birmingham magazine.
Can I dress up?
Absolutely! We ENCOURAGE you to get CREATIVE; many participants dress in fun costumes or matching team t-shirts. See our PHOTOS page for ideas.
Is the Rumpshaker 5K a run or walk?
Both! We encourage walkers and runners of all abilities to participate. See also, "What is a "Start Line Corral?" below.
Is the Rumpshaker 5K a timed event?
Yes, the timing chip is located on the backside of your bib number. On race day your actual race time will be recorded, and available online and you will be eligible for awards.
What is chip timing?
A timing chip is attached to your race bib number. As you move across a special mat at the start line, the chip registers that you’ve started the race. Then, as you cross the finish line, the chip registers that you’ve finished the race. At large races, like the Rumpshaker 5K, it may take a few minutes to reach the start line so a timing chip allows us to capture the actual amount of time it takes you to go from the start line to the finish line.
Can I change from an individual to a team?
If you would like to be added to a team, simply log back into RunSignUp using your User ID and password. From there you have the ability to change from Individual to Team. Team changes must be made by March 15, 2023. If you have additional questions please email info@championship-racing.com and include your name and the name of the team you would like to join.
Team Membership Discount:
Team members will receive a team member discount once the 5th team member registers for your team. The team discount is received at checkout once the 5th Team Member is registered. In-Person 5K, Virtual 5K, 1 Mile Fun Run, and Survivor In-Person 5K, Survivor Virtual 5K, and Survivor 1 Mile Fun Run are eligible for team discounts.
What is a "Start Line Corral"?
The start line corral system allows for a smooth race start for participants of varying athletic abilities. You should choose a corral based on your estimated finish time which will allow you to start with other participants of similar running or walking pace. All 5K participants will receive a timing chip, the corral system will not affect the timing of your race as your actual race time will not start until you cross the starting mat. Look for the following signs on race morning to ensure you are in the appropriate corral.
5K Start Line Corrals Signs (based on finish time)
RUN 24 minutes or less
RUN 25-29 minutes
RUN 30 minutes or greater
WALK ONLY
NOTE: If you are participating with a stroller and/or children, we ask that you keep your children with you at all times and that you start from the back of the "RUN 30 minute or greater" or "WALK ONLY" corrals. This will allow your family members, and our other participants, a safer race experience.
What is included with my entry fee?
Rumpshaker cotton t-shirt, entry into the race, post-race refreshments, and post-race activities.
What is included in my race packet?
Rumpshaker cotton t-shirt and a race bib number. Cotton t-shirts will be available in adult sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2X, and youth size: M. The race bib number must be worn on the front of your shirt on the day of the race.
What are the post-race refreshments?
Post-race refreshments will include water, bagels, and bananas. Additional refreshments may be provided by our sponsors – be sure to visit the vendor area before and/or after the race.
What do survivors receive?
All colorectal cancer survivors who select ‘yes’ to “I wish to be recognized as a colon cancer survivor” during registration will receive a special blue race bib number and a custom Rumpshaker 5K medal. Additionally, survivors and their family and friends will be touched by the support offered by other survivors and our community.
Can I wear headphones?
The use of personal music devices is strongly discouraged because it can be a distraction. Runner safety is a top priority for our event; please be alert and mindful of race personnel and other participants to ensure a safe and enjoyable race for everyone. Keep In Mind Running headphone-free allows opportunities to develop camaraderie with your fellow runners and to enjoy everything the race has to offer. Volunteers and spectators will be on the course cheering you on and providing directions to help get you to the finish line.
Can I use a stroller?
Yes, however, please be aware that the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA), our event insurance company, requires us to ask all participants using strollers, baby joggers or similar devices to start in the back of the runners and walkers. In an effort to make everyone's race day experience smoother and safer, Rumpshaker 5K has implemented a tiered start line corral system. If you are participating with a stroller and/or children, we ask that you keep your children with you at all times, and that you start from the back of the "RUN 30 minute or greater" or "WALK ONLY" corrals. This will allow your family members, and our other participants, a safer race experience. Note: We ask that all persons (including children) who participate in the 5K or Fun Run be a registered participant. A registered participant has paid the registration fee and a waiver has been signed on their behalf. The only exception would be a baby that remains in a stroller for the duration of the 5K or Fun Run.
Can my children participate in the 5K?
Yes! We encourage all ages to participate. If you are participating with small children we ask that you start in the back of the runners and walkers. In an effort to make everyone's race day experience smoother and safer, Rumpshaker 5K has implemented a tiered start line corral system. If you are participating with a stroller and/or children we ask that you keep your children with you at all times and that you start from the back of the "RUN 30 minute or greater" or "WALK ONLY" corrals. This will allow your family members and our other participants a safer race experience. Note: We ask that all persons (including children) who participate in the 5K be a registered participant. A registered participant has paid the registration fee and a waiver has been signed on their behalf. The only exception would be a baby that remains in a stroller for the duration of the 5K.
Can I run without registering?
Running with No registration is not permitted in the 5K, or 1 Mile Fun Run. Please be sure to register for the Rumpshaker 5K so that you can enjoy all that the race has to offer. Everyone in the 5K will need to wear their Bib Number that shows you are a registered participant. All proceeds of the event go to Rumpshaker Inc.
What happens if it rains on race day?
The Rumpshaker 5K will occur rain or shine, warm or cold. We reserve the right to cancel in extreme circumstances. In that event, there will be no refunds, rather, your entry fee will be used as a donation to Rumpshaker, Inc.
What time should I arrive?
Arrive early! Limited parking will be available at various parking lots near Homewood Central Park, however, there is a short walk to the start line. We strongly encourage CARPOOLING whenever possible.
Will there be race day photography?
Bring your camera! You will not want to miss the opportunity to snap photos of yourself, your family, and friends in front of our 30-foot inflatable colon. Share your race photos using #Rumpshaker5K
Will there be awards for top finishers?
Overall and age group awards will be presented for participants with a timing chip (See “What is a chip timing?”).
Will there be awards for top finishers?
Overall and age group awards will be presented for participants with a timing chip (See “What is a chip timing?”).
Top 3 Overall in 5K Male & Female
Top 3 per age group (5 year male/female age group brackets from 0-9 thru 75+)
0-9 10-14 15-19
20-24 25-29 30-34
35-39 40-44 45-49
50-54 55-59 60-64
65-69 70-74 75+
Will there be awards for teams?
Top 3 team awards will be presented in the following categories:
* Team with the Most Participants
* Team with Most Overall Funds Raised
* Team with the Most Funds Raised per Team Member
* Fastest Team (co-ed, male, female)
* Most Team Spirit
How do I Request Team Packet Pickup before March 15, 2023:
Team Captain Request Team Packet Pickup [Click Here]
Can I fundraise for a team or Individual?
Yes, Here are some tips to help Fundraise [Click Here]
Fundraise $250 and receive $25 of your entry fee back. Must register for the race and sign up as an individual fundraiser. Register your Team as a fundraiser as well and win Top Fundraising Team! [Click Here to Start]
Bib number transfer, refund and cancellation policy
There are NO refunds of registration fees. Bib number transfers of registration must be completed by March 15, 2023. **If you need to make changes to your registration or transfer to another participant [Click Here] for instructions on how to change your registration. This event will occur rain or shine, warm or cold. We reserve the right to cancel in extreme circumstances. In that event, there will be no refunds, rather, your entry fee will be used as a donation to Rumpshaker, Inc.