[edit] Frequently Asked Questions

[edit] Why should I run?

Because it is fun, because it is healthy. But more importantly, because it provides a month’s meal or primary education to an underprivileged child, to someone who is eagerly looking forward to a bright future.

[edit] Will there be prizes?

Awards will be given away in the following age categories: <19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50+.
Special awards will be given away for the youngest and oldest participants!

[edit] Is the race professionally timed?

Yes, professional race timing service will be provided by VIRA: http://www.myvira.com

[edit] Have you organized similar events in the past?

Yes. Vibha-MN is very active in the Twin Cities area. Ths is the fifth consecutive year in which we are organizing the 5K Walk/Run at Lake Phalen, St. Paul. We had 103 participants in 2004 and 175 participants in 2005. Please visit our events page to learn more about other event that we have held.

[edit] How do we know that the money raised by Vibha reaches the end beneficiaries?

Vibha is a 501 (c) (3) organization, registered in the State of New Jersey. Vibha's Tax id is 22-3122761. Vibha encourages all its patrons and donors to visit the projects that it funds. The projects are selected after careful scrutiny and are monitored on a quarterly basis. Vibha’s financial statements could be found at http://www.vibha.org/Pages/aboutvibhaFinancials.html.

[edit] Is the race course certified?

Yes, the courses are USATF certified.

[edit] I registered for the event online / by mail. How do I get my free color T-shirt?

The T-shirt is distributed at the venue on the day of the event.

[edit] If it rains on the day of the event, will my money be reimbursed?

The event will take place rain or shine. Therefore there will be no reimbursement of registration fees.

[edit] I cannot participate at the event. Can I still contribute to the cause?

Of course, you can make an online donation by clicking here.

[edit] Can I run with my pets?

Yes, as long as you do not obstruct other participants.

[edit] Will you provide refreshments at the site? Have you done so in the past?

Yes, Vibha-MN provides free refreshments to the participants of the event. Bottled water will be made available at several points in the course.

[edit] I want to participate in the event. But I have little children that are too young to run 5K. What do I do?

Vibha-MN is organizing children’s games at the venue. Please bring your tiny tots to the scenic Lake Phalen site and let them have fun with some games.