A better way to register, race, and feel supported
Every event we produce includes Athlete First, a set of athlete-friendly policies built to give you flexibility, protection, and perks from the moment you register.
First-time 5Ker, returning age group winner, or just trying to make the start line around a hectic schedule. Athlete First is here to make the experience better.

What comes with every entry
Details and deadlines vary by event, so check the race website.
Every benefit, in detail
Registration flexibility
Life is unpredictable, your race registration should not be. Sign up with confidence. Deadlines do apply to these options and they vary by event, so check the individual event page for the dates.
Community and support
You should not have to dig for information or wait days for a reply. You are supported from pre-registration through race day.
Loyalty and recognition
Recognition for the people who bring others along and for those who show up at the front.
Sustainability and responsibility
Endurance events should be good for athletes and for the place they run through.
Social good and accessibility
An open, inclusive race experience that gives back to the community it runs in.
Cost should not keep anyone off the start line
A pay-it-forward donation at registration, plus entries we hold back at every event, covers race fees for athletes who need help. Partial or full registration coverage, entry fees only.
Amounts and athletes only. We never publish names.
Ask, and we cover it
Reviewed confidentially by the race team. No public list of who received help, and nobody at the event knows.
- You askWhich event, what you need covered, and a bit about your situation.
- We answerReviewed confidentially, within a few days, while entry is still open.
- You raceWe send a discount code or a free entry. Nobody at the event knows.
Who can apply
There is no single definition of need. If cost is a barrier, we want to help.
What it covers
Partial or full registration fee coverage. Assistance is limited to entry fees and does not cover travel, merchandise, or upgrades.
Awards are made on a rolling basis and are subject to available funds. Apply early.
Apply to the Athlete First Fund
Answer as fully as you can. Everything here is used only to make assistance awards and goes no further without your consent.
We reply within a few days, while entry is still open.
Questions about the fund