Should I add a 5K WALK to this race Im directing?

Hmmm--just hit me that if the entry fee were reduced for a 5K walk, then the 10K runners might raise a stink. Most of the runners wouldnt win an award anyway, so they would be getting the same race tshirt/refreshments as the walkers, but would be paying more.

though having no awards for the 5K would save me over $200.

just rambling out loud here...

Is your race a fundraiser for a popular cause? If so charge them 20 bucks and thank them for coming. Make sure your aid station volunteers stick around and have enough water when the walkers get to them as well.

As for why someone might want to walk, maybe they just want to participate and feel like they are part of something. Or perhaps walking 5k is a physical accomplishment for them.

And remember, except for the likes of Haile, Kenni B and El G, we are all back of the packers on some level...

Advertise the walk part of the event well. If enough people show it will be a huge social event (especially if you're organizing a charity road race) and all the walkers will have a good time and not care that there aren't any prizes. If not enough show it might not be as fun for the walkers.

If you really need the money, make it a 5K race.

Otherwise, forget the walkers and stay with the 10K.

thanks for the input, folks.

forgot to mention that there is a race cap, and actually, i think we can fill the cap with just runners or at least 80-90% of the cap. so im not really interested in adding the walk to generate tons of extra revenue--but just to be nice and allow for more people to participate b/c the demand is there. but then i dont want walkers to occupy spots that could otherwise go to runners--but it's nice to have the walkers as insurance so we can reach the targeted race cap.

hmm....