PUBLISHED 06/04/2008
With all the things race directors have to juggle, naming the race seems like it should be the easiest. However, the name of your race is hugely important. A catchy, interesting name is likely to get more participants (and makes for a much sought-after T-shirt!)
There are several things to keep in mind:
1. When you select a name, avoid names that are too long to remember or print on email subject lines, calendars, etc. If you don't have a short and sweet name, others may shorten it, and it may not appear as you would like.
2. Be consistent. Use the same race name on all materials - otherwise, runners may have a difficult time finding information on your race.
3. If you have a title sponsor, in which the sponsor's name is part of the event name, don't expect that everyone will use it. Media and calendar listings often drop the sponsor name.
4. Be creative when selecting a name. If your race is on New Year's, your Resolution Run - or on Thanksgiving, your Turkey Trot - will never be considered original and may get confused with other races. Can you use your charity, your location, or something unique about the race to make it stand out?
5. Make sure that your race name is printed larger on your entry form, promotional materials, and website, so that it stands out and people know what to call it. Can you design a simple, recognizable logo?
