Running is one of the most popular sports in the world, and with that popularity comes a high cost to put on running events. There are a number of reasons why running events are so expensive, including:
The cost of permits and insurance. In order to close roads and ensure the safety of participants, race organizers need to obtain permits from local governments. These permits can be expensive, and they can vary in cost depending on the size and location of the event. Race organizers also need to purchase insurance to cover themselves in case of accidents or injuries.
One thing that you might not know is that the cost of closing the streets depends on who you know. First of all, in most cities, especially big cities like New York City you have to interact with a Street Permits agency and also a police precinct or multiple police precincts. What you’ll find is the local precincts can bypass the Street Permits agency if the event stays entirely within their precinct. Therefore if you have a small event and you are connected with the police precinct “commander” (as they call themselves) then the cost could be $1000’s to maybe nothing. Then, you might ask the question, why do the running events still cost in the $50 range when the costs are so low. That’s a simple answer. Capitalism! It’s supply and demand and confusion. Other events have high costs and therefore the events with low cost simply raise the price to whatever the public will support. And they take the leftovers as profit.
Even more complicated is the process of getting a permit in the first place. The government is picking winners and losers by granting large permits for large running events to one private corporation over another. And even more tricky is finding out the payments that the private for profit corporation pays for the street closing. Most freedom of information act requests are denied by police agencies in cities such as New York City. In New York City, according to the Street Permits Office, large street events are supposed to cost $25K and for extra large events it is $66K. But what about an event like the NYC Marathon that closes practically entire neighborhoods. How can that be only a $66K charge? Who is picking up the rest of the bill? The taxpayer, of course.
Whether you like it or not, the taxpayer funds most of these so-called public events. The next you see one of these events remember you are “the executive producer” but with one big difference. You share only in the cost and not in the profit.
The cost of staffing. Running events require a significant amount of staffing, from volunteers to paid employees. Volunteers are often used to help with tasks such as setting up and tearing down the course, handing out water and snacks, and providing medical assistance. Paid employees are typically needed to manage the event, including registering participants, timing the race, and handing out awards.
The cost of materials. Running events require a variety of materials, including race bibs, t-shirts, medals, and awards. These materials can be expensive, especially if the event is large or if they are made from high-quality materials.
The cost of marketing. In order to attract participants, race organizers need to market their events. This can involve advertising in newspapers, magazines, and online. It can also involve paying for social media promotion and event registration fees.
In addition to these direct costs, there are also a number of indirect costs associated with running events. These include the cost of renting equipment, the cost of transportation, and the cost of lost productivity for volunteers.
As a result of all of these costs, running events can be quite expensive to put on. The cost of entry fees varies depending on the size and location of the event, but it is not uncommon for entry fees to be $50 or more for a 5K race. For larger events, such as marathons, entry fees can be even higher.
While the cost of running events can be a barrier for some people, there are a number of ways to save money on entry fees. For example, many races offer discounts for early registration or for runners who volunteer at the event. There are also a number of free or low-cost running events that are organized by local running clubs or community organizations.
Despite the high cost of entry fees, running events can be a great way to get involved in the running community, challenge yourself, and have fun. If you are considering running an event, be sure to factor in the cost of entry fees when making your decision.
Here are some tips for saving money on running events:
Register early. Many races offer discounts for early registration.
Volunteer at the event. Many races offer discounts or free entry to runners who volunteer at the event.
Look for free or low-cost running events. Many local running clubs and community organizations organize free or low-cost running events.
Consider running a virtual race. Virtual races are a great way to save money on entry fees, and they can be just as challenging and rewarding as traditional running events.
I hope this article has helped to explain why running events are so expensive. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.