Every event has its own course, rules and services. Use this checklist early enough to ask the organiser questions. Do not assume that advice from another event applies.

Before entering

• Read the event distance, date, location, terrain and elevation information.
• Check entry rules, age or qualification requirements, cancellation and transfer terms.
• Ask whether walking and planned walk breaks are allowed.
• Read the official cut-off policy, including intermediate cut-offs and what happens if you miss one.
• Check accessibility, support-person and mobility-aid arrangements with the organiser.
• Consider whether the preparation time and plan starting point fit where you are now.

Plan the practical day

• Confirm start time, wave or corral, bib collection and any mandatory briefing.
• Work out transport, parking or public transport, road closures and how you will get home.
• Locate toilets, bag drop, aid stations, medical help and a meeting point.
• Check the forecast and the organiser’s heat, storm, smoke or cancellation updates.
• Know what identification, bib, timing device or mandatory equipment is required.
• Tell a trusted person your plan when that is appropriate.

Use familiar choices

Wear clothing and footwear you have already used comfortably. Practise the food, drink and carrying method you intend to use; do not rely on an unfamiliar event product without checking what is supplied. For longer events or individual nutrition needs, get suitable advice during preparation rather than improvising a universal target from an online checklist.

If you use medication or need health support, plan around your own professional advice and the organiser’s medical arrangements. An event entry does not establish that participating is suitable for you.

Decide how you will approach the course

Know your intended effort and any walking pattern. Start with room to settle rather than letting the crowd choose your pace. Read course signs and marshal instructions. If you feel pain, chest tightness, unusual shortness of breath or dizziness, stop exercising and rest, and get help if needed. Use the event’s medical service or call triple zero (000) for a medical emergency.

Agree on where supporters will stand and what you will do if you cannot find each other. Mobile coverage and tracking can fail.

After the finish

Know where you will collect belongings, meet people, eat, drink and travel home. Allow more time than the finish estimate alone suggests. Follow up health concerns rather than using the medal as evidence that nothing is wrong.

Your next step: open the actual event website and answer every item that only the organiser can confirm. Put unresolved questions in one list and contact them.