Comerica Bank
Dexter-Ann Arbor Half Marathon

JUNE 6, 2021

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2021 COVID-19 SAFETY PLAN

JANUARY  15, 2021 • 9:00PM

This safety plan below is designed to cover the Dexter to Ann Arbor Runs Event. The event is held on Sunday, June 6, 2021. While we recognize the impact the novel coronavirus has had on our communities, we are also aware that things may look very different in June. As such, we are developing a safety plan that has masking and social distancing efforts at the core of the plan. 

Community Directors involved in preparing this safety plan:

  • Clint McCormick – Road Runners Club of America and USA Triathlon Certified Race Director
  • Rebecca Northway – DXA2 Medical Director, University of Michigan
  • Tina Brent – DXA2 Medical Director, University of Michigan
  • Laurel Park – President of Ann Arbor Track Club and Road Runners Club of America Certified Race Director
  • Doug Goodhue – Road Runners Club of America Certified Race Director and hall of fame athlete

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

EXPO & PACKET PICKUP

In a typical year, the expo serves as packet pickup for our participants. The location is an inside facility and is held on the Saturday of race weekend. Up to 40 vendors set up to promote and sell running related products and services. Race Day packet pickup was offered for an hour prior to the race start.

2021 Plan: An outside packet pickup with no vendor exposition, held over several days to accommodate social distancing.

  • Location: Ann & Main Street Parking Lot
  • Dates: Friday evening, and Saturday of race weekend. No race day pickup will be offered.
  • Packets will be distributed as pre-packaged bags including the finisher medal and participant shirt.

FIELD SIZE

Normal field capacity is 6,500 participants broken down into the following events:

SATURDAY

  • Kids Run: 300 kids ages 2-12

SUNDAY

  • Half Marathon: 3000 runners
  • 10K: 1500 Runners
  • 5K: 1500 Runners

2021 Plan: The goal for 2021 is to reduce the field size of events to allow for adequate social distancing at the Start Line, Aid Stations, Finish Line, Medical Tent, and Refreshments Area.

Field capacity to be 4,250 participants broken down into the following events:

SATURDAY

  • Kids Run: canceled

SUNDAY

  • Half Marathon: 2000 runners
  • 10K: 1250 Runners
  • 5K: 1000 Runners

COURSE MAPS

The course routes for each event allow for adequate social distancing, provide minimal or no overlap, and allow for start lines to have numerous corrals for staging.

Half Marathon: https://dxa2.com/wp-content/uploads/2019-Dexter-Ann-Arbor-Half-Marathon-course-map.pdf

10K: https://dxa2.com/wp-content/uploads/2020-DXA2-10k-course-map.pdf

5K: https://dxa2.com/wp-content/uploads/2020-DXA2-5k-course-map-2.pdf

START TIMES

10K Run: 7:30am | Finish Time between 8:00am and 9:00am, slight overlap of 5K leaders

5K Run: 8:30am | Finish Time between 8:45am and 9:30am

Half Marathon:  8:30am | Finish Time between 9:35am and 12:00pm

MASKING

  • All participants required to wear masks/face covering in non-competition times:
    • Pre and post race
    • Start Line Corrals
    • Immediate finish line
  • All staff and volunteers are required to wear masks/face covering at all times.
  • All spectators are required to masks/face covering. 

SPECTATORS

  • Must wear facemask;
  • Maintain 6’ social distancing;
  • Must conduct daily symptom self assessment;
  • Minimal spectators at start/finish line;

SCREENING

  • Each participant shall be required to complete a declaration at packet pickup that they are not currently infected by COVID-19 and have not had, or knowingly been in contact with, someone experiencing any of the following COVID-19 symptoms in the past 10 days: https://www.cdc.gov/screening/paper-version.pdf
  • By acknowledging, the participant agrees to take temperature on race day.  Fever of 100.4 or higher, the participant shall not participate.
  • All spectators are requested to self assess prior to attending the event.

COMPLIANCE OFFICER: 

Clint McCormick (419.356.4881)

COMMUNICATIONS

  • Outline safety procedures for participants, staff/volunteers, and spectators;
  • Publish on registration page and website;
  • Email to participants prior to race day.
  • Diagrams outlining specific patterns of flow will be developed; specifically diagrams for the packet pickup, start line, aid station, finish line, and refreshments will be developed.
  • Mobile App will be developed as another method of spectator and participant communication.

SANITATION

  • Hand sanitizers provided in all portajohns;
  • Portable restrooms spaced 6’ apart;
  • Increased number of portable restrooms available at start/finish line;
  • Hand wash stations and hand sanitizer stations added to the start/finish line area.

START LINES — CORRALS & SOCIAL DISTANCING

5K

  • The Start line for the 5K is at the intersection of Newport Road and Alexandra Blvd.
  • There will be up to 4 corrals setup with each holding 250 runners spaced out 6’ apart.
  • Waves will be released every 90 seconds.

10K

  • The start line for the 10K will at 315 N Main street uses the two southbound lanes.
  • There will be up to 6 corrals to allow for adequate distancing.
  • Each corral will hold up to 250 people and will be about 250’ long.
  • Runners will be assigned corrals by estimated finish time submitted during registration. Faster runners to the front with slower runners to the back.
  • Waves will be released every 60-90 seconds.

HALF MARATHON

  • The start line for the half marathon is in front of Creekside Elementary School in Dexter, MI. 
  • There will be up to 10 corrals to allow for adequate distancing.
  • Each corral will hold up to 250 people and will be about 250’ long.
  • Runners will be assigned corrals by estimated time submitted during registration. Faster runners to the front with slower runners to the back.
  • Waves will be released every 60-90 seconds.

WATER / AID STATIONS

  • 7oz bottled water
  • No Gatorade or endurance drinks
  • No nutrition on course
  • Gels provided in packets for people to carry
  • Tables spaced 25’ apart
  • Water is self serve
  • Two locations on course for touchless refill of personal water bottles.

SUPPORT VEHICLES (SAG WAGONS)

  • Have bottled water and facemasks in vehicle
  • Windows down at all times
  • Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes in vehicle

SHUTTLE BUSES

  • No shuttle buses
  • Participants will be on their own for getting to the start line of the half and 5K events.

FINISH LINE / POST RACE

  • Finish line chute will be fenced to keep runners moving to the exits;
  • Runners “encouraged” to leave finish area ASAP;
  • Results streamed live and sent to mobile devices. 
  • No awards ceremonies. Awards available for pick-up at separate tent;
  • Finisher medals will be distributed at packet pickup;
  • Refreshments are to be determined. In a typical year, we serve sliced pizza, bagels, cut fruit, and offer beer to finishers. Per current guidelines, all food items are to be individually wrapped items, or whole fruits packaged in advance and distributed in bags, no self-serve or bulk items.
  • No beer truck
  • No live band

Engage with us on Facebook to stay motivated and find answers to frequently asked questions.

DXA2 EVENT UPDATES (INCLUDING COVID-19 & SAFETY)

DECEMBER  15, 2020 • 12:00PM

We’re still on track to open registration soon for our 47th running scheduled for June 6, 2021. We’re finalizing safety considerations, apparel and medal designs over the next few weeks and will post each of them first on our social media channels. Stay tuned!

Engage with us on Facebook to stay motivated and find answers to frequently asked questions.

NOVEMBER  18, 2020 • 4:00PM

All of us here at Dexter-Ann Arbor Runs are focused on planning for your next opportunity to run the river with us. There are still a lot of details to iron out, but one thing we can let you know today is that on June 6, 2021 we plan on racing and cheering you all the way from the start line in Dexter, along the scenic Huron River, and across the finish line in Ann Arbor.

While we workout the details, follow us in our online event forum to see announcements as they happen, and get answers to frequently asked questions.

Thank You for Running the River with Us All These Years

What could be better than turning 47? Doing it again, for starters. This year brought us all some disappointing circumstances, but 2021 will be the year to celebrate all that we’ve overcome and accomplished by staying positive and maintaining our commitment to fitness. We appreciate your loyalty to racing with us and are excited to see you again.

Dexter-Ann Arbor Runs

JULY 31, 2020 • 2:00PM

HOW VIRTUAL RUNS WORK
SIGNUP • PACKET • BIB • RUN • RESULTS • CELEBRATE
We’re 37 days away from “VIRTUAL” race day and wanted to fill you in on how our virtual race will work.

Virtual runs are a great option as a standalone way to motivate individuals to stay active, for runners who can’t make the scheduled race date to still participate over an extended timeframe, runners from a far who want to receive the custom perks and compete from wherever they are, and as last resort for race directors forced to cancel a physical race but still offer an enjoyable experience to fans of their event.
With shirts and medals already purchased and in-hand, switching to a virtual run allows participants to run the event on their own and still receive the commemorative items, while organizers aren’t left holding unusable inventory.

More importantly, virtual races are a way for runners to keep their competitive juices flowing and not waste all of their training, while being able to compare their performance with others in their age groups and overall.

HOW OUR VIRTUAL RACE WILL WORK
The registration process is exactly the same for this virtual races as for the normal Dexter-Ann Arbor Runs. Individuals will register online via the RunSignup platform linked to from our event.

One difference for having the best virtual race experience possible, is that you must opt-in to receive text message and email notifications from the registration platform — these will prompt you and provide important links to results and custom information throughout the virtual results submission window.

Our automated system will send you notifications via text and/or email with how to download and print your custom race BIB, submit your results once completed, and prompt you to download your finisher certificate, etc.

JULY 15, 2020 • 9:00PM

2020 DEXTER-ANN ARBOR IN-PERSON EVENT IS CANCELLED
Virtual, Contributor & Deferral Options Available

The Ann Arbor Track Club (AATC), in close consultation with local health officials, has made the difficult decision that the Dexter-Ann Arbor Runs will not be held in person this year. The health and well-being of our participants, volunteers, staff and community are our top priorities. We are greatly disappointed about having to cancel, but amid the increase in COVID-19 cases nationwide we are not willing to put everyone who makes this race such a terrific event at greater risk.

AATC is offering three options to registrants we believe are fair and will allow us to remain financially sound going forward. Thank you for being loyal runners and staying positive throughout this process.

OPTIONS — EXISTING REGISTRANT ACTION IS REQUIRED BY AUGUST 19, 2020
Make Your Selection by Visiting Our Registration Page

1) RACE VIRTUALLY IN 2020 (Labor Day weekend)
a. Opt-in to Virtual Race of Same Distance as Original Registration
b. Finisher Medal (for distance of original registration)
c. Gender Specific Tech Shirt
d. Local Packet Pickup
e. Free Shipping (if desired)
f. 25% Discount Off Your 2021 Registration
g. Downloadable BIB Number & Finisher Certificate
h. Online Results Submission & Viewing

2) CONTRIBUTE TO ANN ARBOR TRACK CLUB
a. Make a one time donation of your 2020 entry fee to support our youth program, The Flyers.

3) DEFER ENTRY TO 2021
a. Choose to have your existing registration transferred to the same event/distance for the June 6, 2021 running, at no additional cost to you.

NO REFUNDS
As acknowledged by all registrants during the signup process, entry fees are non-refundable. Ann Arbor Track Club promotes fitness, friendship, and fun for all ages through running, walking, and track & field activities. The revenues generated from the Dexter-Ann Arbor race account for more than 98% of the Ann Arbor Track Club’s operating budget, which funds all the club’s activities, events and programs, including indoor winter track rental, local charities support, our extremely successful youth program, and more.

Once you register, we start putting your money to work to plan for your arrival and develop an experience worth the entry, with 364 days of work and one day of fun. Most of it is spent several months in advance of a race and on many integral items to prepare for your arrival:

  • Venues
  • Permits
  • Medals
  • Apparel
  • Logistical Support
  • Vendors
  • Hydration and Supplies
  • Operational Assets
  • Personnel
  • Marketing, Advertising and Other Media
  • …and the list goes on…

MOVING FORWARD
We’ve created a reference page on our website where additional updates and answers can be found.

Remain safe. Keep up your training. Look toward tomorrow and set a new goal. We look forward to running with you again soon.

JULY 13, 2020 • 5:00PM

While we have received initial approval for the new date (Labor Day), our staff remains actively working with the City of Ann Arbor and others to finalize all necessary authorizations to run the race as designed, and are prepared should we be required to cancel the in-person running. In the meantime, please follow CDC recommendations for social distancing, wearing face coverings, washing hands and staying home if sick. These steps will help race organizers everywhere return to road racing again sooner.

MAY 15, 2020 • 8:00PM

The deferral to 2021 and and BIB transfer period for individuals who were registered prior to the postponement announcement and cannot attend on Labor Day or next year has now passed. Everyone who did not utilize either option is now registered for the Monday, September 7, 2020 running. Registration for this year’s event will remain open through race weekend.

EXPO & PACKET PICKUP

There will not be an expo this year. To maintain a safe environment for everyone, the 2020 Expo for Dexter-Ann Arbor Runs has been cancelled. Pre-race packet pickup details are being worked out and we’ll publish specifics as we get closer to race week. The tentative plan is to offer several days of packet pickup somewhere in Ann Arbor during race week, as well as on race morning near the finish line.

KID’S RACE IS GOING VIRTUAL

The Ann Arbor Track Club and Jack Demmer Auto Group present the annual Dexter-Ann Arbor Kids Run, a “mini-meet.” For the safety of all kids and their families, this year’s kids event will be a virtual race only. Registered kids will be mailed their race shirt and finisher medal some time near race day.

This event is open to all kids age 12 and under, with an emphasis on FUN, not competition. The Kids Run is a great way to get your kids involved in the sport of running.

HOW DOES A VIRTUAL KIDS RACE WORK?

  1. Signup Kids Online as Usual
  2. Enable Text and/or Email Notifications During Registration
  3. Review Notifications as Their Sent Leading Up to Race Day
  4. Visit Registration Profile to Print Custom BIB to Wear on Race Day
  5. Setup Your Own Safe Course Around Home for Kids to Run
  6. Follow Prompts in Notifications to Submit Kid’s Results Online (TBD)
  7. Submit Kid’s Results Per Notification Instructions (TBD)
  8. View Kid’s Results Page to Download and Print Finisher Certificate
  9. Kids Shirt and Finisher Medal Mailed Via USPS Near Race Day

Keep following us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to receive the most current updates. We look forward to seeing you soon.

APRIL 2, 2020 • 8:15PM

For 46 years we’ve presented an opportunity for individuals from around the region to participate in a unique event that supports a lifestyle of fitness and well-being, while giving back to nonprofit partners in the area. With the uncertainty our nation is currently coping with, the safety of our participants and community remains our top priority.

WE’LL BE RUNNING THE RIVER THIS YEAR ON LABOR DAY!

With an end to social distancing guidelines and the ban on mass gatherings remaining unknown, we have made the decision to postpone our 47th running until Labor Day — Monday, September 7, 2020. While we have received initial approval for the new date, our staff is actively working with the City of Ann Arbor and others to finalize the necessary permits to run the race as designed.

We wanted to reach out to all registered participants with detailed information on what to expect next. Additional details will be published in the coming weeks.

KEEP UP YOUR TRAINING

The CDC recommends activity like outdoor running, walking and biking to help combat the effects of cold, flu and COVID-19. The caveat is that you practice safe social distancing, and evaluate your individual risks before acting.

We are offering options to accommodate the inconvenience that this COVID-19 situation has caused you.

YOUR DEFERMENT & BIB TRANSFER OPTIONS

For Registrants up to Announcement on April 2, 2020

    1. AUTOMATIC DEFERMENT TO LABOR DAY 2020: On May 1, 2020, all current registrants will have their 2020 entry automatically deferred into our September 7, 2020 running. (at no additional charge to you)
    2. DEFERMENT TO JUNE 6, 2021: If you cannot make the postponed 2020 date, you will be able to defer your BIB to our 48th running in 2021. You will have through April 30, 2020 to make this selection from your runsignup.com/profile. Steps: Navigate to your profile >> Upcoming Events >> Manage Registration >> Defer Registration >> make selections and save changes. You will receive an email showing the details of your deferral. Save this information. You’ll use it to claim your 2021 spot once the registration window reopens.If you do not select this option by the deadline, you’ll be automatically deferred to this year’s postponed date. (at no additional charge to you)
    3. BIB TRANSFERS: If you cannot attend either the postponed date of Labor Day 2020, or next year’s date of June 6, 2021, you can transfer your BIB to another person through April 30, 2020. The process is easily managed by you through your Run Signup profile. The transfer fee will remain in place. We recommend referring to this tutorial.

    HOTEL RESERVATIONS

    Our official hotel, Weber’s, will be contacting all individuals who made reservations under the DXA2 block, to assist with canceling or moving existing registrations.

    REFUNDS

    Consistent with race industry standards, Dexter-Ann Arbor entry fees are not refundable (as acknowledged by all registrants during the signup process). Refunds simply aren’t an option if any races and clubs are expected to survive. The Dexter-Ann Arbor Run is the primary source of revenue for the Ann Arbor Track Club and proceeds from the race fund all other club activities, events and programs throughout the year.

    THE RACE MANAGEMENT PROCESS

    Once you register, we start putting your money to work to plan for your arrival and develop an experience worth the entry. Race Directors everywhere are being asked where the money has been spent. Most of it is spent several months in advance of a race and on many integral items:

    • Venues
    • Permits
    • Medals
    • Apparel
    • Logistical Support
    • Vendors
    • Hydration and Supplies
    • Operational Assets
    • Personnel
    • Marketing, Advertising and Other Media
    • …and the list goes on…

    After the race, all remaining funds are donated to nonprofit organizations.

    WHY THIS PROCESS?

    Since 1974, we’ve existed to support you on your journey to the finish line. This year we appreciate your support, understanding and acceptance of the options we are offering.

    WE APPRECIATE YOU

    These are stressful times for everyone and we’re all in this together. The more we work together, the better we’ll all be on the other side.

    Within the next few weeks, we’ll send a follow up email to all registrants with the detailed steps for deferring, or transferring registration.

    Thank you for your understanding and patience, and keep running.