No, the RUNColumbus Race Series is not just for competitive runners. Everyone is welcome to participate and enjoy the camaraderie and support of the RUNColumbus community. Our awards program offers performance-based honors and challenges that can be earned at all paces.

When you register for the RUNColumbus Race Series, you’ll enjoy a variety of exclusive benefits:

• Discounted Race Fees: Save on entry fees for most series races.
• Team Shirt: Receive an official RUNColumbus team shirt.
• Finishers Medal: Awarded to all athletes completing a minimum of six series races.
• Competitive Opportunities: Compete for Division or Age Group titles.
• Stackable Challenge Awards: Earn awards for completing various challenges throughout the series.
• Exclusive Team Shop Access: Shop at the RUNColumbus Team Shop, open three times a year.
• Community Support: Experience camaraderie and support from the RUNColumbus community.
• Educational Workshops: Attend workshops on running, nutrition, and more.
• Regular Updates: Stay informed with regular communications about series races, special events, and other important news.
• Lowest Renewal Price: Enjoy the best renewal rates for the following season.

No. Runners register for each series race on the race’s website.

All registrations are final, non-transferable, and not deferrable to another year.

Yes. The Official Rules are reviewed annually, and revisions are posted before registration opens for the following season.

Unlike paid professional athletes whose job is to compete in select races, we are amateur runners balancing training and racing with jobs, families, and civic commitments. That’s why having race options is essential. This flexibility allows RUNColumbus participants to enjoy the benefits of competition while accommodating their individual schedules.

To maintain fairness and integrity, a dedicated team of members reviews the rules annually and suggests necessary changes. These recommendations undergo beta testing before implementation to ensure effectiveness. Our goal is to closely simulate head-to-head competition, even if participants are not competing in the exact same races.

Our goal is to offer runners a variety of races each season. The selection process considers several factors, including:

• Interest from runners and race directors
• Date of the race
• Distance of the race
• Location of the race
• Field size of the race

Additionally, the following criteria are evaluated when selecting races for the annual RUNColumbus Race Series, with exceptions made at the discretion of the series organizers:

• The race supports a local non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.
• The race takes place in the greater Central Ohio region.
• The race uses a chip timing system.
• The race posts official results on their website within 24 hours.

Yes! Each season showcases new events as well as a few favorites.

Each season of the RUNColumbus Race Series begins in January and concludes in December with an Awards Celebration. Participants have the entire year to complete the six races required to earn the Finisher’s medal and be eligible for additional awards.

Registration for the upcoming season of the RUNColumbus Race Series opens on September 1 and closes on May 31. Sign up early to take advantage of the lowest registration prices.

Many races offer both in-person and virtual options. RUNColumbus participants may choose either option if available. However, runners only earn Participation Points for participating virtually.

The RUNColumbus Race Series is not a training group. Rather we recommend runners connect with one of the numerous training groups and clubs throughout Central Ohio. We’ve compiled a list to help in your search.