About the Race/FAQs

Why We're Racing

The Baltimore 5K race is a fundraiser for FOCUS events in the Baltimore Area, and for national scholarships to FOCUS programs.  FOCUS is a 501(c)(3) organization that relies on the generosity of our donors and friends. Every donation and registration fee is tax deductible, and will go to serve students directly in Baltimore.  The race involves students, parents, volunteers, faculty, alumni, and donors alike as a way to come together as a community to support the organization. For more information about FOCUS, please see our welcome section. You can also scroll down to see FAQs, and find information about sponsorship. 

Getting Sponsors

The best way you can support FOCUS, besides running in the race, is to get people to sponsor you to run.  You can print out the sponsorship form in the downloadable forms section, and you can also direct your sponsors to the website (www.infocus.org/baltimore5k) so they can give online.  THE TOP FUNDRAISER WILL RECEIVE AN IPOD TOUCH THE DAY OF THE RACE! Funds raised will go to support FOCUS in Baltimore and toward scholarships to national FOCUS programs.

Sponsorship Prize Eligibility

1. Sponsor forms and all donations must be turned in to Shannon Trainor by Tuesday April 13th

2. Must raise at least $300 to be eligible for iPod touch

To make things as easy as possible for you, sponsors can give cash, write a check, or donate online by clicking on the Sponsor a Runner tab.  You are responsible for collecting all cash and checks and turning it in and following up with your online supporters.


When and where is the race?

April 17th, 2010 at the McDonogh school.  Check-in for pre-registered participants and day-of registration open at 8:00 AM.  The race starts at 9:00 AM.

What if it rains?

The race will be held rain or shine.

Do I have to run, or can I walk the 5K?

We welcome all participants: run, walk, or grapevine if you want to!

What kind of shoes should I wear? 

The race will be a cross country race, trail runners or any running shoe will be fine.

When will the race be over? 

The race starts at 9:00, most runners will be done by 9:30 or shortly after.  We will have an awards presentation after the race and everything should be wrapped up between 10:30 and 11:00.

How long is the race? 

The race is a 5K or 5 Kilometers which equals 3.1 miles.

Can I register the day of the race? 

Yes, but it will cost you an extra $5, why not register now; save money and guarantee yourself a race shirt!

Will there be food?

Water, fruit, and some other light refreshments will be there to help you reach your best 5K time.

Can I use my iPod or listen to music during the race?

Sorry but no, this is for your safety and the safety of the runners around you.  Someone may yell “Look out there is a bear!!”, but you won’t hear it because of your tunes.

What about parking? 

There will be plenty of parking at McDonogh, please follow the directions on this site and the signs on race day.