Q: Why do people come to LMJS Fourth Sunday runs?
A: The Fourth Sunday runs are a great way to meet new people and make ongoing friends while enjoying low-key (and inexpensive!) running races. Some runners race competitively but most are coming out for casual exercise and the company. Our races are open to everyone, you do not have to be an LMJS member to enter them.
Q: How do I register?
A: You can either register in advance, on-line, at "active.com" or on race day. Race day registration is 45 minutes before the start of the race. This is normally between 8:15 – 8:55 am.
Q: How do I become a member?
A: Go to the membership page on our website, How to Join, for more information and to download a membership form.
Q: Why should I become a member?
A: By becoming a member of our club, or any club for that matter, you are making a commitment as a runner to support running. Club dues help support our activities by providing the financial resources we need to pay for permits, insurance, and supplies needed to put on races; plus sponsor our potlucks, and other activities. As a member, you pay a reduced price for every race which the club puts on. You also can buy club apparel for a reduced price. Local running stores give a 10% discount to members and you are also eligible to compete in the club’s annual “Total Time” competition.
Q: Where are the runs held?
A: All Fourth Sunday races are held at Lake Merritt in Oakland. The location is the Sailboat House, 568 Bellevue Ave. in Oakland. For directions, go to Map.
Q: How much is race entry fee and club membership cost?
A: Excluding LMJS’s special events races, the Fourth Sunday races cost $5 for non-members and $3 for LMJS members. Annual membership in LMJS is $20 individual and $25 family, with additional club membership benefits. For more club membership information, see How to Join.
Q: Who comes to LMJS races?
A: LMJS races usually draw between 75 – 100 race participants. Race participants include teens, college students and runners in all age categories. High school age runners and younger are welcome, kids in middle school and younger run for free, there is no charge.
Q: How often are runs held?
A: Races are held on on the Fourth Sunday of every month. See schedule for a list of our 2009 LMJS race schedule.
Q: Are there any awards?
A: All race participants receive finishing ribbons noting the name and distance of the run. The top three men and women finishers in each age group receive place ribbons for their performances.
Q: Why are the races so inexpensive?
A: All Fourth Sunday races are low key club runs put on by members and other volunteers. It’s a viable alternative to the costly $25 - $45 price tag races.
Q: Can I help?
A: The monthly LMJS races are made possible by volunteers. Few clubs in the Bay Area hold as many races as LMJS. Race day volunteer activities include registration, finish line timing and recording activities, results, and set-up. To volunteer for a race, you can fill out this form. In addition the club is always interested in runners who are willing to be Race Directors or serve in some capacity on the Board.
Q: How do I contact LMJS?
A: LMJS Hotline: (510) 644-4224
LMJS Website: www.lmjs.org
Email: lgoldman@pacbell.net
