FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Don't see your question on this list? Contact us to get your question answered.
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Registration:
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I'm registered, but I'd also like to fundraise. How do I do that?
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Thanks for your extra support! Click here to create a fundraising team. Then ask your family and friends to support your run.
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I can't run or walk this year, but I'd love to support your cause. How do I donate?
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We appreciate your support. Visit our donation page to support Mother's Day Weekend Meso Run 2020.
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I signed up, but I'm sick and need someone else to run for me. Is that okay?
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Not a problem. Just contact us, and we'll have your registration transferred.
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Course/Raceday information:
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Where will we be running in Griffith Park, and what's the course like?
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We look forward to welcoming you to the Old LA Zoo. The run/walk course follows an unpaved dirt trail with rolling hills. First, you'll head north along the Mineral Wells Trail, turn around about 3/4 of a mile up the trail, and head back toward the Old Zoo. At that point, you'll join the Upper Old Zoo Trail, loop around above the zoo, and connect to the Lower Old Zoo Trail, which you'll follow to the finish line at the Old Zoo picnic area. Don't worry about remembering all of this - there will be clear signage along the way.
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What sights will I see along the way?
As you run or walk, keep a look out for iconic Griffith Park views, the LA River, the remnants of the Old Zoo cages, and maybe even P-22 or her offspring! You may also find a horse or two - remember, they have the right of way.
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How difficult is the course?
The course has mostly rolling hills, with a longer, gradual incline on the Upper Old Zoo Trail around mile 2-2.5. The descent to the Lower Old Zoo Trail is a little steeper. See the elevation map on the main page. We've tested out the course and loved it each time!
That said, anyone who wants to shorten the course may skip the Upper and Lower Old Zoo Trails and make the run/walk just under 2 miles.
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Is the course timed?
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We will have a race clock, and finisher prizes will be based on who crosses the finish line first. We will not have an official timing system or timing chips, as we are more interested in building community and supporting good health to fight illness. If this is a concern, please let us know.
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What should I bring?
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Because the trail is unpaved and the course staging site is grassy, both participants and spectators should be sure to wear appropriate footwear.
We'll have water and snacks for participants. It will likely be warm out. So be sure to wear sunscreen and bring extra water with you. The course starts and ends at a grassy picnic area. So bring a picnic and stay for the company after the run/walk!
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What about baby strollers? Dogs?
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Baby strollers and dogs (on leash) are both allowed on these trails. Note that part of the course is out-and-back, so please stay to the right if you have a stroller or dog. And be mindful of possible horse run-ins.
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About the Meso Foundation and mesothelioma:
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Why will the 2020 race support the Meso Foundation?
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We at the Mother's Day Meso Run are always looking for the most effective ways to support mesothelioma research and new treatments. The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation has its finger on the pulse and continues to fund critical research that helps patients and their families deal with a mesothelioma diagnosis. That's why we have named the Meso Foundation as our 2020 race beneficiary.
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We encourage you to check out the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation's website to learn more about this organization and mesothelioma, its causes, and current treatments. Research on this deadly cancer falls behind that for other cancers - yet another reason why the Meso Foundation's work is so important.