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The Reunion 5K

Saturday 15 May 2021

 

 

Thank you for your interest in the Reunion 5K. Everyone at London Marathon Events looks forward to welcoming you to Kempton Park on Saturday 15 May.

If you’ve signed up to run the Reunion 5K, you can check out our Race Day Guide for everything you need to know ahead of the event on Saturday 15 May.

If you’re coming along to spectate, take a look at our Spectator Guide for more information about the event.

By taking part, you will be playing an important role in helping running and other mass participation sports events return.

Entries for the event have now closed, but the following information covers the key differences between this event and races you may have entered in the past.

You’re invited to sign up for one of two 5K races we’re holding on Saturday 15 May. Each race will be slightly different, to enable us to gather a variety of information about Covid-19 transmission outdoors.

Each event will have around 1,000 participants and spectators. The minimum entry age is 16 for both groups and while those in an extremely clinically vulnerable group are permitted to take part, they are strongly urged to be cautious about attending. Spectators, like runners, will be required to register in advance (you’ll receive more info about this in your confirmation email after you’ve signed up) and spectator access to the venue will be limited to those who have registered.

Important information

We’ll confirm full details of each race nearer the time, but please note you will need to do the following in order to take part:

  • Take a Covid-19 lateral flow test on Friday 14 May. We’ll send you more details of how to order a home lateral flow test kit, or book a test at your local test centre, once you’ve signed up
  • Provide evidence that your lateral flow test was negative to gain entry to the event
  • We are also asking attendees to take pre- and post-event home PCR tests, carried out to inform the research. These tests do not need to be ordered and will automatically be sent to attendees by Friday 14 May
  • Complete a short post-event questionnaire
  • Complete the Reunion 5K in less than 60 minutes

The Reunion 5K entry fee is £15 to cover the costs of putting on the event and includes a finisher medal. You will also be sent your official running number and timing chip in advance and you will receive a finishing time and official result after the event.

As with all our events, we want you to have fun and feel happy and comfortable. This event is part of the government’s Events Research Programme and will help our sport get back to inspiring activity and helping with people’s mental and physical health. If participating will cause you anxiety or if you are worried about Covid-19, we suggest you don’t sign up.

 

Race Information

Race A Race B  


Start time:
09:00 (with last runner scheduled to start around 09:25)


Start time:
11:45 (with last runner scheduled to start around 12:00)


 


Format:
one wave of around 1,000 runners 


Format:
one wave of around 1,000 runners


 


Runners:
social distancing measures in place


Runners:
NO social distancing measures in place


 


Spectators:
social distancing measures in place


Spectators:
NO social distancing measures in place


 

Location of Kempton Park

 

Events Research Programme

The Reunion 5K is part of the government’s Events Research Programme (ERP). Other events taking part include the FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium and the World Snooker Championships at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield.

These pilot events will provide scientific data on how both small and large events could safely resume as part of the government’s roadmap out of lockdown, starting no earlier than 21 June.

If you have any further questions that are not covered by the information above, please contact our Customer Services Team on [email protected]

FAQs

Background

What is the Reunion 5K?

The Reunion 5K comprises two 5K races on Saturday 15 May 2021 at Kempton Park, Surrey. It is part of the government’s Events Research Programme and has been designed in conjunction with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) to provide scientific data on how mass participation events can safely resume as part of the roadmap out of lockdown (from 21 June). For more information on the Events Research Programme, click here.

Why is London Marathon Events (LME) holding the Reunion 5K?

LME wants to bring back mass participation running events in a safe, secure manner as soon as possible. In order to do this, we need to put on a test event where scientific data from participants, staff and spectators can be collected and analysed, which can then inform the government’s decision on when mass participation events can safely resume. By taking part in the Reunion 5K, you will be helping us to do this and helping to bring back running events. We will be supported in the delivery of the event by the Mass Participation Sports Organisers (MSO), a collection of the UK’s largest mass participation event organisers.

So, it will be a bit different from a usual running event?

Yes, it will be different because, to help us gather the data we need, we will be asking all participants to take Covid-19 tests both before and after the event. Additionally, there may be some other elements that might be different to what you would normally expect on a Race Day as this is a test event. However, once you get going, the race itself should feel very normal!

Will the two 5K races be different?

Yes, in order to deliver a full range of data to DCMS, each of the races will vary slightly.

  • Race A will have social distancing for around 1,000 runners and all spectators.
  • Race B will have no social distancing for around 1,000 runners and all spectators.

Can anyone take part in the Reunion 5K?

The Reunion 5K and all of the pilot events are the first steps to helping the safe return of mass participation events and have been designed to be as inclusive as possible.

The Science Board has reviewed the Events Research Programme’s approach to clinically extremely vulnerable individuals attending the pilot events.

They strongly urge caution for the clinically extremely vulnerable attending the events on public health grounds, however these groups are not excluded from involvement in the pilots.

To find a list of clinically extremely vulnerable conditions, click here.

Additionally, those under 16 will not be permitted to attend as they cannot legally consent to research studies.

Finally, the Reunion 5K is a multi-terrain course which unfortunately makes it unsuitable for wheelchair users to take part.

All participants will be asked to give their consent before attending the Reunion 5K. The event has been developed under a Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) framework in line with the latest PHE and DHSC guidance.

What will I have to do to take part?

All runners and spectators will need to do the following to participate in the Reunion 5K:

  • Take a Covid-19 lateral flow test on Friday 14 May
  • We’ll send you more details of how to order a home lateral flow test kit, or book at test at your local test centre, once you’ve signed up
  • Provide evidence that your lateral flow test was negative to gain entry to the event
  • To aid research, we ask attendees take pre- and post-event home PCRs tests, carried out to inform the research. These tests do not need to be ordered and will automatically be sent to attendees by Friday 14 May
  • Spectators only: download the official NHS Test and Trace app on your phone ahead of arrival at the event
  • Complete a short post-event questionnaire
  • Runners only: complete the Reunion 5K in less than 60 minutes

Where can I get a home Covid-19 lateral flow test?

You can order your test here.

How do I get the Covid-19 PCR tests?

These tests do not need to be ordered and both will automatically be sent to attendees by Friday 14 May.

Is the testing free?

Yes, all tests are free.

Why do I have to do both a lateral flow test and a PCR test before the event?

Evidence of a negative lateral flow test ahead of the event will enable runners and spectators to gain access to the event. The PCR tests before and after the event are to inform research and ensure any transmission of the virus is properly monitored.

If I test positive for Covid-19 before the event, can I get a refund?

Yes. If you test positive for Covid-19 we will refund your entry fee.

How do I show I have a negative Covid-19 lateral flow test result when I arrive at the event?

You will be asked to show a text message or email confirming a negative result from your lateral flow test to event staff on arrival at the Reunion 5K. If your result is positive, you will not be permitted to enter.

Do I need to have had a Covid-19 vaccination to take part?

As part of the entry process and data capture for the Events Research Programme, everyone (runners and spectators) will be asked if they have been vaccinated, but this is not a requirement to attend the event. Whether you have had one, two or no vaccinations, you are welcome to enter.

Are you working in partnership with local council and health authorities?

Yes. LME is also working closely with Public Health England, the Department of Public Health, Surrey County Council and key local stakeholders in the planning of the event, which has further support from the Mass Participation Sports Organisers (MSO), the collective of the UK’s leading mass participation event organisers.

Is there a risk that a mass participation running event is just going to spread the virus further?

Public safety is our main priority and decisions will be guided by a Science Board of relevant experts, including senior Public Health England representation, who will take into account the latest public health data. The event has been designed in a scientifically controlled way, with special consideration to reduce risk of transmission. Specific measures will include all attendees being subject to scientifically and ethically designed pre- and post-event monitoring.

DCMS has put careful consideration into the timing of this study, particularly with regard to progress of the vaccination programme. Over 98 per cent of people at risk of death from Covid-19 have been vaccinated, which significantly lowers the risk posed.

How many runners will take part in each of the two races?

There will be around 1,000 runners in each of the two races.

What time does each race start?

  • Race A’s start time is 09:0(with last runner scheduled to start around 09:25)
  • Race B’s start time is 11:45 (with last runner scheduled to start around 12:00)

Can I choose which of the two slots I sign up for?

Yes.

Can I bring my family and/or friends along to watch?

Your supporters are welcome to the Reunion 5K as long as they are aged 16 or over and they register in advance. If they are in a clinically extremely vulnerable group they are strongly urged to exercise caution if attending. Your supporters can register for free here until 16:00 on Wednesday 12 May, when entries close 

Can I register to spectate even if I don't know anyone running?

Yes, you can register for free here until 16:00 on Wednesday 12 May, when entries close. Please note that you will need to register to watch a specific race from the two options available.

Do spectators also have to undergo the same Covid-19 tests? 

Yes, all spectators will also have to take a Covid-19 lateral flow test on Friday 14 May and show evidence of a negative result to be permitted entry to the event. We are also asking attendees to take pre- and post-event home PCRs tests, carried out to inform the research. Further information on taking these tests will be sent to attendees prior to the event.

Do spectators need a ticket to enter the event?

All registered spectators must bring ID and their entry QR code as well as providing evidence of a negative Covid-19 lateral flow test upon arrival at the venue.

Will I be required to wear a face covering while running?

No, you will not be required to wear a face covering while running or at any point during the event.

What is the time limit to complete the 5K?

You must complete the Reunion 5K is less than one hour (this time will start when you cross the Start Line).

What does the entry fee include?

The £15 entry fee includes the race pack you’ll receive in the post before the event. This pack will contain a running number and timing tag (which is on the back of the running number). You will also receive a finisher’s medal.

I’m worried about catching Covid-19 at the event. What should I do?

As with all our events, we want you to have fun and feel happy and comfortable if you take part. This event is part of the government’s Events Research Programme and will help our sport get back to inspiring activity and helping with people’s mental and physical health. If participating will cause you anxiety, or if you are worried about Covid-19, we suggest you don’t take part.

What are my travel options?

Transport arrangements to and from events are being carefully considered across all events in the Events Research Programme. LME is working closely with local transport stakeholders to ensure that all precautions are taken to help participants and spectators travel safely, no matter how they choose to travel.

We are encouraging people to travel to the Reunion 5K by walking or cycling. Alternatively, there are options to travel by car or by train (only if absolutely necessary). For full details on these options, read on below.

No matter how you travel to the Reunion 5K you should follow the below safer travel guidance:

  • Plan ahead and allow more time for your journey. You should try to travel at quieter times and take less busy routes where possible
  • If you can, you should walk or cycle to the event
  • If using public transport, you must wear a face covering unless exempt, sanitise your hands regularly and keep your distance where possible
  • If driving to the event, you should avoid sharing a car with anyone outside of your household or support bubble. If this isn’t possible, you should open the windows, wear a face covering unless exempt and leave seats free to socially distance

TRANSPORT OPTIONS

BY BIKE

There will be a bike park area at the venue for you to safely leave your bike while you take part in the event.

BY CAR

Kempton Park is located on the A308 between Sunbury on Thames and Hampton Court, less than one mile from Junction 1 of the M3 via Junction 12 of the M25. If you are planning to drive to the Reunion 5K, please choose the entry option with a free car park permit.

BY TRAIN

Kempton Park Station is 200 yards from the North entrance of the racecourse. Trains run every half an hour direct from London Waterloo with a 40-minute journey time. Please note that, due to social distancing measures, the eight-carriage trains can only accommodate up to 150 passengers, so do not travel by train unless absolutely necessary.

I want to run with my friend who lives with me, how can we make sure we start at the same time?

Start waves will be carefully allocated based on predicted time. While we cannot guarantee two runners will be in the same start wave, entering the same race and giving the same predicted time will increase your chances.

What is the course like?

The Reunion 5K course is a fast, flat route with a few turns on hard-packed paths.

Will there be drinks available on the route?

No, there will be no drinks station on the race route, but you will be able to collect a bottle of water after you cross the Finish Line.

Will there be somewhere to leave bags on the day?

Yes, you will be able to leave small bags in our baggage area on Event Day, however this is likely to be very busy so we would encourage you to leave items with one of your supporters if possible. You will need your phone to access the event, so please plan to run with it if possible.

What happens if I do not receive my race pack prior to the event?

If you do not receive your race pack before the event, you will be able to collect a replacement pack from one of our Info Points on Event Day. We’ll email all runners further details on this in the week before the event.

Can I change my entry to a different one of the two races?

No, unfortunately once you have entered one of the two races, you will not be able to transfer to a different one.

Will there be results?

Yes, there will be results published within 48 hours of the completion of the event.

Will there be prizes for winners?

No, there will not be prizes for the winners.

 

General Conditions of Entry