Colchester Half Marathon

Question 1

Can I enter on the day?

Accepted Answer

On the day entries are subject to availability only. Providing the entry limit has not been reached, entries will be available on the day for all of our races, unless otherwise stated on the event page. There is an extra charge for entering on the day and this is outlined on the event page on our website.

Question 2

How do I know if I am registered to run a race?

Accepted Answer

If you enter online, you should receive an acknowledgement email confirming your entry. If your confirmation email does not arrive within 24 hours of your entry, there is a chance that it may have dropped into your junk mailbox so please check your spam before you contact us to confirm your place. 
It may be worth adding us to your safe senders list so that you don't miss your booking confirmation or subsequent information including race day instructions.
Postal entries will be acknowledged by email so please ensure that it is clearly written on your postal form.

Question 3

Can someone else register for me?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can enter multiple people when entering online or by post, provided you have all of the required details for all entrants.

Question 4

What is the difference between attached / affiliated and unattached / unaffiliated?

Accepted Answer

Runners who are members of an England Athletics affiliated running club are ‘attached’ or ‘affiliated’ runners. Some clubs don’t have an EA affiliation and some runners aren’t members of a club at all; if this is the case, then you are an ‘unattached’ or an ‘unaffiliated’ runner. You can still enter your club name onto the entry form so that it’s listed in the results, but you won’t benefit from an affiliated entry rate.

Question 5

Can I enter a group into the event?

Accepted Answer

Yes! There is the option to book bulk entries of between 5 and 50 runners via the relevant event page on our website.
The system will allow you to purchase multiple entries and keep these in reserve. You will then be provided with an 'invitation link' to send to participating runners so that they can complete their own details. All runner details must be received three weeks prior to race-day.

Question 6

Can anyone register for a race?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We welcome athletes of all ages, sizes and capabilities! Our events are fully inclusive and designed both for those new to running and also for more experienced athletes. Each race distance has a minimum age limit, which is set by England Athletics. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept any runners under the specified age bands. The EA age guidelines for races are: Under 3k… Any age, 3k – 9 years and over, 5k – 11 years and over, 5 Mile & 10k – 15 years and over, 10 mile – 16 years and over, Half Marathon – 17 years and over, 20 Mile and Marathon – 18 years and over, Ultra Marathon – 20 years and over, We accept wheelchair athletes at our events; however, not every event is suitable. If you are a wheelchair athlete who is interested in an event, please email us at info@nice-work.org.uk beforehand to check the course suitability.

Question 7

Can I walk the event?

Accepted Answer

Our events are designed for runners; however, we do have walkers at some of our events. You may be asked to start the event a little earlier that the advertised start time and to complete the course un-marshalled, depending on the distance. Please send us an email to info@nice-work.org.uk if you’d like to walk a race and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.

Question 8

Can I run with a dog?

Accepted Answer

England Athletics rules prohibit dogs in races. Anyone seen racing with a dog will be disqualified.

Question 9

Can I run with a buggy?

Accepted Answer

Not every race is suitable to to run with a buggy. Please get in touch with us at info@nice-work.org.uk to check the course suitability and to advise if you will be running with a buggy. Due to England Athletic rules, if you have checked course suitability and decide to run with a buggy, you will need to start from the back of the funnel and run non-competitively. You will still need to wear an official race bib.

Question 10

Are there toilet and changing facilities at the races?

Accepted Answer

All of our events will have toilet facilities but not all events will include changing facilities. We will direct you to this information in the race day information email sent out a few days prior to the race. It will also be included in the race information accessible from the event page on the website.

Question 11

How are the events timed?

Accepted Answer

All of our events are timed using chip timing. You will be given a race number and, on the back, we will fix a timing chip. 
This chip will register when you pass over the start and finish mats, logging your time. 
We will endeavour to have live and provisional results available on our website shortly after the event. We will send you a link to the provisional results board on the same day as the race. Results will be verified by our timing team in the days directly after the race with official results being confirmed by the following Thursday.

Question 12

Will my race number be posted out to me?

Accepted Answer

We will let you know if your race number will be posted out to you or if it will be available to collect from the registration team at Race HQ on the day of the race. This information will be included in the race day information email which is sent out a few days prior to the race.

Question 13

What should I do if I have not received my race number and timing chip in advance of the race?

Accepted Answer

For most events, your race number and timing chip will posted out to you around ten days before race day. If you do not receive your race pack before race day, then please visit the registration desk in Race HQ on the day of the race and our team will issue you with a new race number and ensure that you are fully race ready.
If you are a relatively late entry (have entered the race within ten days of the event) or if you live overseas, then your race number will be waiting for you to collect on the morning of the race and you will receive your instructions by email.  For some races, your number and timing chip will not be posted in advance and will be available to collect on the day of the race, but we will email you before race day to let you know if this is the case.

Question 14

How do I attach my timing chip?

Accepted Answer

Your timing chip will already be fixed to the back of your race number and should not be removed.
Please place the race number on the front of your vest/shirt with the number facing forward.
To avoid a misread, please ensure that your race number is not fixed to your leg or back and that it remains uncovered.

Question 15

How do I attach my race number?

Accepted Answer

Please attach your race number to the front of your running top or vest using safety pins or clips, securing it at all four corners. Spare safety pins will be available at Race HQ. To avoid a misread and to ensure that your timekeepers and marshals can easily identify you, please ensure that your race number remains uncovered and please don’t attach it to the back of your shirt or to your shorts/leggings.

Question 16

Are there prizes on offer at the event?

Accepted Answer

At all of our Nice Work events, we offer prizes for leading runners and, for main races or longer distances, there will also be prizes for age category winners. There is a maximum of one prize per person and, weather permitting, a prize giving normally takes place between 45 – 60 minutes after the first finisher comes home. Age categories are worked out by your age on the date of the race. Partner events/races may have different prize offerings for their races. Further information or race-specific prizes will be available on the relevant event page on our website.

Question 17

Can I wear headphones whilst running?

Accepted Answer

Headphones are not permitted for our races. However, bone conducting headphones can be worn instead.
As of 01 April 2024, England Athletics have updated their rules regarding the wearing of headphones at races. The updated rule states:
"The wearing of headphones, or similar devices, (other than those medically prescribed), is not permitted on shared usage courses. This includes, but is not limited to, open roads, parks, recreation grounds, seafront promenades, public footpaths and other such areas where those not participating in the race may be present..."
Anyone seen wearing headphones as described above, will be disqualified from the race. ---   

Bone Conducting Headphones:
The rules also go on to state, "Headphones that work by conducting sound through bones and do not sit in or on the ears are acceptable but must leave the ear clear of obstructions to hearing."  If you do choose to wear bone conducting headphones then we ask that you have the volume turned down low enough to hear the marshal.

Question 18

I cannot make the race, can I get a refund?

Accepted Answer

We believe that our policies for deferrals and transfers is one of the most flexible and generous amongst race organisers and, for that reason, we do not offer refunds of race entry fees for illness, injury, or any other reason. In much the same way as you would not expect a refund for a theatre ticket if you were unable to attend, we are unable to offer refunds for race entries sold. However, if you cannot make the race we do have a number of other options available to you such as a transfer to a friend / family member or a deferral to another race. Further details on deferral options can be found in our T&C’s.

Question 19

I don’t feel well or have an injury, should I run the race?

Accepted Answer

Before attempting to race we ask that you make sure you are 100% fit to do so. If you feel unwell or are carrying an injury, we would strongly recommend not taking part and only return to running once you feel fully fit to do so. If you are unsure if you are fit to run, please speak to your doctor.

Question 20

Can I transfer my entry to a friend or family member?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We have no issue with transferring your entry and allow free transfers as long as we are notified before the start of the race. You may self manage a transfer via your booking confirmation providing that your transfer is completed three weeks and one day prior to the race at 23:59. This is so that we have time to send out the bib number in time for race day. After this time, you must email info@nice-work.org.uk to arrange your transfer.
We will need the following information for your alternate:
Your full name 
Name of new runner
Age
Date of birth
Address
Email
Contact Number
Running club (if applicable) 
Emergency contact (name)
Emergency contact (number) 
Your alternate must not run without having supplied us with the above personal details or wearing an official race number.
Please note that, only the person to whom the race number is issued may wear that race number. Any unauthorised transfers are strictly prohibited; it's vitally important that we know who is running on the course in the event of a medical emergency.
Partner events may have different rules regarding transfers to another runner.

Question 21

How can I contact the race organiser?

Accepted Answer

Where Nice Work is the race organiser, you can contact us via email at info@nice-work.org.uk. If the race is a partner event, then you can still email info@nice-work.org.uk. Alternatively, the race organiser’s contact details are displayed on the right-hand side of the event listing page.

Question 22

Is there somewhere to store coats and bags?

Accepted Answer

Most of our races will have an unmanned baggage drop at Race HQ. You are welcome to use this baggage drop, however, this is done at your own risk and discretion. The team will not handle your bags and you will be responsible for labelling them clearly. We will direct you to this information in the Race Day Information email sent out a few days prior to the event. Alternatively, you can find this information via the 'View Race Day Information' link on the relevant event page of our website.

Question 23

What kit & footwear do you recommend for this event?

Accepted Answer

We will direct you to our kit recommendations in the the race day information email sent out a few days prior to the event. Alternatively, you can find this information via the 'View Race Day Information' link on the relevant event page of our website.

Question 24

Will there be water stations on the course?

Accepted Answer

There will be water stations at all of our races. Whilst all of our cups are fully recyclable or made from recycled materials, we encourage all of our runners to bring their own reusable cups and hydration packs with them; our water station crews will be happy to refill them for you. We will direct you to this information in the Race Day Information email sent out a few days prior to the event. Alternatively, you can find this information via the 'View Race Day Information' link on the relevant event page of our website.  If you don't have a reusable cup and you would like one, then these are available to purchase from our online store in a variety of super colours!

Question 25

Will there be aid stations on the course supplying gels and other sugary things?

Accepted Answer

Whilst we don't supply gels there are some, longer races, that will also include aid stations carrying a some/a mix of jaffa cakes, jelly babies, bourbons, cola etc. We will direct you to this information in the Race Day Information email sent out a few days prior to the event. Alternatively, you can find this information via the 'View Race Day Information' link on the relevant event page of our website.  If you have been used to using a particular brand of gel as part of your training, then we would recommend not deviating from this during the race and bring some along with you.

Question 26

Where can I find Race HQ?

Accepted Answer

The Race HQ and registration desk is usually close to the start/finish area. There will be race signage and marshals on site to help direct you. However, we will direct you to this information in the Race Day Information email sent out a few days prior to the event. Alternatively, you can find this information via the 'View Race Day Information' link on the relevant event page of our website.

Question 27

Will changing rooms be available?

Accepted Answer

It is extremely rare that changing facilties are available at races so we recommend arriving ready to run! However, if changing facilities are available then we will direct you to this information in the Race Day Information email sent out a few days prior to the event. Alternatively, you can find this information via the 'View Race Day Information' link on the relevant event page of our website.

Question 28

Will there be anywhere to get refreshments?

Accepted Answer

The refreshments provision will vary from race to race. However, we will direct you to this information in the Race Day Information email sent out a few days prior to the event.

Question 29

How can I check the results?

Accepted Answer

Live and provisional results will be available on the Nice Work website asap after the race. We will also send you an email with a link to the results page on the same day as the race. If you have any questions regarding the live results, please ensure that you send us an email to info@nice-work.org.uk by midday on the Thursday following race day. Any changes submitted after this time will not be included in the final results.

Question 30

What is the difference between a Nice Work and Partner race?

Accepted Answer

Nice Work is a different breed of racing organiser. 
We deliver our own original 'Nice Work' races, fully hosted and organised by us.     
We also deliver 'Partner Races'. This means that we are working with a host Partner Organisation and provide timing and/or race management services for their event on their behalf. These partner races may have a slightly different rules and feel to them to other Nice Work races. 
When you view our racing calendar, you'll see that underneath each picture, the race organiser is named as either Nice Work or another Partner organisation.

Question 31

I've started to run, but I need to drop out... Is that OK?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. You know your body and if you're not feeling up to running then you shouldn't push yourself beyond your limits. But, please let our race registration team at Race HQ know! We need to be fully aware who is on the course, so for health & safety reasons, please let the nearest marshal or a member of the registration team know if you drop out of the race. You will need to give them your name and bib number. Please note, we will not be able to issue you with a refund if you do not complete the race.

Question 32

Will First Aid be available at the race?

Accepted Answer

Yes. There will always be a First Aid provision at both our Nice Work and Partner events. 
You will be able to find them on the finish line and, for some longer races, they will also be placed on the course. 
Should you feel unwell at any stage of the race, please do not hesitate to wave down a marshal and they will call First Aid for you and ensure you are well cared for.
If you are unable to make your way to the next marshal point, please advise a fellow runner and ask them to notify a marshal of your location. You will find a list of emergency contact numbers on the back of your race number.

Question 33

I have already received my race bib in the post. Do I still need to visit your registration team at Race HQ on arrival?

Accepted Answer

No! If you have already received your race bib in the post then you are ready to race!

Question 34

Will there be marshals and signage on the route?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Your course will be clearly marked using large route arrows and directional cones, as well as being marshalled throughout.
Please listen and obey all marshal instructions given. There will be a sweep marshal which will follow the last runner to make sure that no one is left on the route. All marshals will remain in place until stood down by the sweep marshal.

Question 35

I have a medical condition that the First Aid team should be aware of. How do I let them know?

Accepted Answer

You can let us know via email to info@nice-work.org.uk and we will pass this information on to the medical team. Alternatively, you can let the Race Director or registration team know on arrival at the race. Please always remember to fill out your medical and emergency contact information on the back of your race bib before you run. If you have a medical condition that our First Aid team will need to know about in the event of an emergency, then please put a visible 'X' on the front of your race bib, preferably in a red pen. Pens will be available from the registration team at Race HQ.

Question 36

Where can I find the race results?

Accepted Answer

Provisional race results are posted on our website shortly after the race has finished. A link to race results will be emailed out to all runners on the same day. Our timing team will work on verifying the results and post confirmed and official results on the Thursday after race day. If you have a query regarding your result, please submit it to info@nice-work.org.uk before the Thursday after race day or your result will not be updated.

Question 37

When will my result show up on Power of 10 and RunBritain?

Accepted Answer

Power of 10 and RunBritain will automatically pick up your results within approximately two weeks of the race and only if that race has been licensed by England Athletics, which most of our races will be. Please check with our team via info@nice-work.org.uk if you are unsure. If Power of 10 or RunBritain do not pick up your results within a couple of weeks of the race, then please contact these organisations directly as they operate separately from us and we have no influence or access to their systems.

Colchester Half Marathon

The Robin Cancer Trust

Colchester Half Marathon

Can I enter on the day?

How do I know if I am registered to run a race?

Can someone else register for me?

What is the difference between attached / affiliated and unattached / unaffiliated?

Can I enter a group into the event?

Can anyone register for a race?

Can I walk the event?

Can I run with a dog?

Can I run with a buggy?

Are there toilet and changing facilities at the races?

How are the events timed?

Will my race number be posted out to me?

What should I do if I have not received my race number and timing chip in advance of the race?

How do I attach my timing chip?

How do I attach my race number?

Are there prizes on offer at the event?

Can I wear headphones whilst running?

I cannot make the race, can I get a refund?

I don’t feel well or have an injury, should I run the race?

Can I transfer my entry to a friend or family member?

How can I contact the race organiser?

Is there somewhere to store coats and bags?

What kit & footwear do you recommend for this event?

Will there be water stations on the course?

Will there be aid stations on the course supplying gels and other sugary things?

Where can I find Race HQ?

Will changing rooms be available?

Will there be anywhere to get refreshments?

How can I check the results?

What is the difference between a Nice Work and Partner race?

I've started to run, but I need to drop out... Is that OK?

Will First Aid be available at the race?

I have already received my race bib in the post. Do I still need to visit your registration team at Race HQ on arrival?

Will there be marshals and signage on the route?

I have a medical condition that the First Aid team should be aware of. How do I let them know?

Where can I find the race results?

When will my result show up on Power of 10 and RunBritain?