[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 sixth 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 and 225+ participants in 2008. 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.