Members

Updated MCRRC Novel Coronavirus Guidelines

Montgomery County has adjusted their rules to allow 50 people or less to gather outdoors, with restrictions.  We recognize the desire for many of our club members to run together again, and encourage those who do, to do so safely.  Club races will be offered as is possible and as permits are able to be obtained – these permits may have their own unique restrictions and runners and volunteers should follow all instructions from those specific events.  CPR classes are currently being offered to members: https://mcrrc.org/training-programs/cpr-class/.  Please check the expiration date of your current certification.

Our guidelines:

  • Total group size can be 50 people or less.
  • Groups running together should be 25 people or less.
  • When meeting (at the parking lot, trailhead, etc.) follow social distancing guidelines and wear a mask.
  • Water stations or refreshments of any kind are not permitted at this time. Runners should carry and supply their own water.
  • Before and after runs, masks should be used when outdoors and unable to consistently maintain at least six feet of distance from individuals who are not members of your household;
  • To avoid negative confrontation with other trail users, it is recommended to have a mask / buff to use when needed. Masks should be worn when passing another trail user or when six feet of distance from them cannot be achieved.
  • Do not congregate in meeting area after a workout.
  • Montgomery County has opened tracks for public use, however, they are not issuing permits to community users until Mid-September at the earliest. Anyone using tracks are doing so in an unofficial capacity and are not representing the club.

It should also be said, as some health officials have noted, you should know who you are running with. We are all better off if we expand our social interactions slowly with people that have been following social distancing and other public health guidance.

Additionally, we are providing detailed information below which was adapted from the RRCA and CARA (Chicago Area Runners Association).

  • Do not participate in group running if you are feeling sick or ill, have a fever, or if you have been in contact with someone unrecovered from COVID-19.
  • Persons from high risk groups for COVID-19 complications should consult their physician before participating in group activities.
  • Do not engage in traditional forms of physical contact (hand shakes, high-fives, hugs, partner stretching, etc.).
  • Do not engage in close group pictures/selfies. Always maintain social distance guidelines.
  • Do not spit or “nose rocket” in public – bring along tissues or a small towel or a hanky if you need to get rid of some snot during your run/walk. If you must spit, do so away from people and areas that will have foot traffic.
  • Do not share personal items, such as hydration, energy gels, towels, etc.
  • Runners are encouraged to wear a face covering when around others before and after runs.
  • Runners should self-carry personal hydration (bottles/packs), and use hydration stations or fountains for refill only.
  • Meet in locations that provide large, open spaces allowing for pre- and post-run social distance guidelines.
  • Avoid gathering in a location that may cause conflict for others in the area, including businesses, customers, and residents.
  • Never block entryways, sidewalks, trails, or access to bathrooms or fountains. Ensure that others have room to get past the group while maintaining social distance guidelines.
  • Avoid meeting indoors, where runners may encounter multiple touchpoints (doors, counters, etc.), and where there could be limited airflow.
  • Choose locations where a run route is available that allows for social distancing for the group, and while passing others.
  • Consider the public perspective of gatherings of any size, even those within local guidelines, and whether the meeting location exposes the group to negative backlash. Meeting at less popular locations may aid the group in avoiding negative attention.
  • Regarding stops during a run, groups should step off the path/trail at least six feet, and should maintain social distance while stopped.
  • Groups should be respectful of others on the trail/path, and understand there may be a heightened sensitivity from other trail users. Give other trail users as much space as possible, and avoid “swarming” where the group splits and goes around others on both sides. Participants should refrain from making negative comments to other trail users, or responding to negative comments received.
  • Groups should continue to use signals and or call out for passing, obstructions, or stops as usual.