Frequently Asked Questions
Something came up and I cannot race. Can I get a refund?
No. Due to upfront event costs, all entry fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. We do not give refunds. For questions send an email to info@fsseries.com.
Something came up and I cannot race. Can I give someone else my race number?
No. Race entries are non-refundable and non-transferable. For extenuating circumstances send an email to info@fsseries.com.
Something came up and I cannot make it to the event or packet pickup. Will you hold my t-shirt and medal?
No. If you do not pick up your event giveaways, we will give them to other participants who register after our SWAG cutoff date. Note that medals are finishers medals, and are given to participants as they cross the finish line.
The weather forecast looks really bad. Will the race be canceled?
All FS Series events are held rain or shine! However, participant and volunteer safety is our top priority. In the case of extreme weather – too hot, too cold, or storms – race officials will work with local authorities to determine if the race can safely continue. Participants will be notified via email and social media, and our event web page will be updated. NOTE: In the event we cannot proceed on race day, we will try to reschedule. If there is no alternative date available we will cancel. In that case we will schedule a “packet pickup” so runners can still get their SWAG. Refunds will not be issued due to weather cancellation or postponement.
Why do I have to pay the processing fee on my registration?
The fee pays for all charges associated with processing your credit card and website maintenance.
Do I have to signup online to register for events?
Yes, prior to packet pickup, registration is managed online through the secure RaceReach platform for all our registrations. Registration costs also include an online processing fee. All standard credit cards are accepted. We do not have a mail-in option.
Can I register during Packet Pickup?
Once online registration closes, typically two days before an event, registrations will be accepted at the packet pickup events. New registrants will fill out a registration form, sign the waiver, and pay with either Check or Cash. Credit cards are not accepted at walk-up registrations.
If I register at Packet Pickup, will I still get a t-shirt and medal, or other race offerings?
We cannot guarantee a t-shirt or finisher’s medals for walk-up registrants. While we try to anticipate race day registrations, we may not have enough goodies to accommodate everyone. We will let you know when you register, and usually request that you stop by the FS Series table after packet-pickup closes to select from any remaining unclaimed shirts.
Am I eligible for awards?
Yes, everyone who is registered, and has a timing chip is eligible for awards.
What do I need to bring to packet pick-up/registration?
We will post on the specific event page what to bring, but you should always have a photo ID, or a copy of it on your Smartphone, in order to receive your packet. A valid driver’s license or a valid passport is best. Minors are not required to show a photo ID.
Can I pick up another participant’s packet for them?
For running events, not triathlons, you can pick up a packet for another participant. Please make sure to coordinate with them so they don’t show up too. Just in case, have a copy of their ID with you.
Am I required to pick up my packet before race day?
No, but we strongly encourage you to do so. Once you have your bib, you can proceed directly to the starting line, allowing you to bypass crowds in the morning.
I belong to a club or organization. Do you offer group discounts?
Yes. Have your club president or representative send an email to info@fsseries.com for a discount code. We may also run promotions during the online registration period, so watch for specials on our Facebook page or in your email.
How many do I need in my group to be eligible for a group discount code?
10 or more.
Do I have to wear my bib?
Yes, you are required to run with your bib number. The bib should be worn on the front at all times during the event. The bib contains the timing chip and is used for recording your run time and placement, as well as for identification, and race photos.
I heard this event uses RFID Chip Timing. What does that mean?
Chip timing allows us to record your time using a computer and gives the most accurate results. Your timing chip is attached to your bib.
The weather forecast looks really bad. Will the race be canceled?
All FS Series events are held rain or shine! However, participant and volunteer safety is our top priority. In the case of extreme weather – too hot, too cold, or storms – race officials will work with local authorities to determine if the race can safely continue. Participants will be notified via email and social media, and our event web page will be updated. NOTE: In the event we cannot proceed on race day, we will try to reschedule. If there is no alternative date available we will cancel. In that case we will schedule a “packet pickup” so runners can still get their SWAG. Refunds will not be issued due to weather cancellation or postponement.
Can I wear headphones during the race?
Sure, we allow the use of headphones during our running events (triathletes cannot use headphones.) Please stay alert for your safety.
Are pets allowed?
Nearly all of our running events are pet-friendly. Check the specific event page to confirm.
Are strollers allowed?
Nearly all of our running events are stroller-friendly. Check the specific event page to confirm.
What do I need to bring to triathlon packet pick-up/registration?
All triathletes must have an ID AND a copy of their CURRENT (not expired) USAT membership card. This can be the physical card or an image on your Smartphone. There are NO exceptions to this – no USAT card, no race! This is a liability issue for FS Series and for you.
Can I pick up another triathlete’s packet for them?
No. For triathlons, you cannot pick up a packet for another participant. The only exception is for adults picking up for their child.
Am I required to pick up my triathlon packet before race day?
No, but we strongly encourage you to do so. Once you have your bib, and helmet number, you can proceed directly to the body marking station and get your timing chip. Lines are long on race morning, so bypass the packet-pickup line by coming out the day before.
What time should I arrive on race day?
Check-in typically opens at 6:00 a.m-check the schedule on the specific event page. We recommend you get there 60 to 90 minutes before your start time to park and get ready for the race. If you didn’t get your packet before race day, you may want to give yourself even more time.
What is “body marking?”
Every triathlete will have their assigned race number written (with a black marker) on both upper arms, as well as on both thighs. In addition, your age will be marked on the back of your left calf, and/or with your race division if you are racing as a Clydesdale, Athena or Relay.
When do I pickup my triathlon timing chip?
Your triathlon timing chip will be distributed at the event on race morning at the body-marking station. FS Series uses ankle timing chips and offers ankle bands to affix them. The chip and band must be returned when you cross the finish line.
Do I have to be a USAT member to participate in USAT sanctioned races?
Yes, you either have to buy an annual membership or buy a one day membership (available during the registration process.) This provides you with additional insurance coverage for each race.
Why am I “aged-up” in USAT sanctioned triathlons?
USAT bases age on December 31, so you compete in the same age group throughout the year. Example: John Daly is 34, but turns 35 on Dec. 15th. John will be “aged-up” for the entire year, and he will compete in the 35-39 age group for every triathlon in the year.
Can I wear headphones during the race?
No, triathletes cannot use headphones, or carry a cell phone, during any portion of the event.
Is a wetsuit a requirement to wear?
No, but if the water temperature is under 70 we highly recommend a wetsuit.
USAT rules state: “Each age group participant shall be permitted to wear a wet suit without penalty in any event sanctioned by USA Triathlon up to and including a water temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit. When the water temperature is greater than 78 degrees, but less than 84 degrees Fahrenheit, age group participants may wear a wet suit at their own discretion, provided however that participants who wear a wet suit within this temperature range shall not be eligible for prizes or awards. Age group participants shall not wear wet suits in water temperatures equal to or greater than 84 degrees Fahrenheit. The wetsuit policy for elite athletes shall be determined by the USAT Athletes Advisory Council.”
Are swim caps provided at open water swimming races?
Yes, each participant is given a swim cap with the color of their assigned wave. This will be included in your packet.
How do I update my pool swim time?
Click on the “Change Swim Time” button in RaceReach. You will be able to edit your time the Friday before race week. For seeding purposes, all participants must submit the total time it takes you to swim 250 yards. For the swim, participants are seeded according to their registered total swim time – fastest to slowest. By seeding yourself properly, you’ll end up swimming near people who swim the same pace as you. This will reduce the number of people who you will need to pass or the number of people who will be passing you.
