What’s The Wave Start?
It’s pretty simple actually. Instead of everyone taking off at once, we divide everyone into 20 waves. They’re organized by people’s expected pace so that everyone can run with people their own speed. Waves start with the fastest runners, then go to slower runners, then joggers, then walkers.
Do All Waves Require Qualifying? No!
The FORTitude 10K is open to everyone. We want you to run, jog, or walk at your speed. Only the first 6-8 waves require a qualification time — these are designed and reserved for runners who will finish faster than 62 minutes. Use your 2017 BolderBOULDER, your 2016 ColderBOLDER time, or provide any other race results within 12 months of the FORTitude 10K, and we’ll place you in the fastest wave possible. It’s important to register according to your anticipated pace. All other waves are open to everyone on a first-come, first-serve basis.
How Do I Pick What Wave To Be In?
When you register, you just pick which type of wave you think you belong, qualify, run, jog, or walk. We’ll automatically put you in a the wave that is right for you.
Can I Start With Friends or Family? Yes.
To be in the same start wave as someone else, register everyone online or in person at the same time. In the appropriate field, enter their name. Qualifying rules still apply, and everyone in your group will be placed based upon the slowest person’s wave time.
Can I Change Waves Once I Register? Yes.
No problem, assuming there are still bibs available in the wave you want. Return your bib and timing tag to us before race day. For a $10 bib change fee, we’ll get you switched. Keep in mind that you must run in the wave that you’ve been registered or assigned.
How Do I Enter a Qualified Wave If I Want To?
1. Use your time from any race distance between two miles and a marathon within 12 months of the FORTitude 10K. We’ll place you in the fastest wave possible.
2 Use your 2016 or 2017 BolderBOULDER time. Anyone who finished the 2016 or 2017 BolderBOULDER faster than 62 minutes automatically gets in a qualified wave.
3. Use your 2016 ColderBOLDER time. Anyone who finished the 2016 ColderBOLDER 5K faster than 32:38 automatically gets in a qualified wave.
Photo by John Wark