Event FAQ

Welcome to Hess 5K FAQ page!

Here you'll find answers to common questions about the October event. Whether you're a seasoned veteran of this event or a first-timer, we've got you covered.

If you can't find the answer to your question on this page, please reach out to our team for assistance at info@houstoncorporate5k.com. We will reply within one business day.

Who can participate?

Corporate company teams must consist of a minimum of four (4) participants, who can be full-time, part-time, or contracted employees, vendors, family members, or friends aged 18 or above. Minors under 18 years old are not allowed to attend the event. Pets are not allowed at the event.

Charitable Beneficiary - Memorial Park Conservancy

A portion of the registration fees and sponsorship proceeds will go directly to the Memorial Park Conservancy. Their mission is to restore, preserve, and enhance Memorial Park, ensuring it can be enjoyed by Houstonians today and in the future. This event has raised more than $400,000 to date, with $105,000 raised in 2023 alone.

How do I register?

Create a Company Team: If your company is not presently registered, feel free to set it up and become a team captain today!
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Instructions:
1. Click HERE to Register Your Company.
2. Once your Company Team is successfully created, employees can begin to “Join” your team. Please contact us at (info@houstoncorporate5k.com). We will reply within 24 hours.

Join an already registered Company Team: Click HERE to search for your listed team to register now.

What do I receive if I register?

Your Race Packet Contains:
• Commemorative Running Tech Relaxed Fit Tech Shirt
• Goody Bag including special offers/items from local partners
• Event Timed Bib

All Bibs have an RFID tag located on the back of the bib for tracking on the course. Please leave this tracking in place centered on the front of your shirt to accurately time/track your participation.

NOTE:
A running tech shirt will be guaranteed to ALL participants registered by the deadline of October 10, 2025 at 11:59pm. There will be no registration allowed after this date.

Where and when do I pick up my packet?

There is no individual packet pick up. ALL team captains will receive the participant packets and distribute to the team.

Location:
Memorial Park Golf Course Building - Chevron Center For Education and Golf
1001 E. Memorial Loop Drive - Houston, 77007

Dates & Times:
Thursday 10/17 - 11am-5:30pm
Friday 10/18 - 11am-5:30pm

Can I register the day(s) of the event?

There is no event day registration. All registrations must be completed by the October 11th, 2024 deadline

Is there parking available?

There will be multiple parking options available inside the park. Specific parking instructions will be announced and emailed to all participants starting in October

Where do we start and finish the race?

The Start and Finish Line along with the company hospitality village are ALL located together in the same staging area in the BEAUTIFUL Eastern Glades section of the Park on E. Memorial Loop Drive. Please refer to the course map for more information.

Can I check my gear?

There will be no event day gear check. Please securely store your belongings in your vehicle or at home. Event is not responsible for any theft that occurs.

Are there mile markers?

Mile markers will be at each mile highlighted by our 'Starter Pack' companies being recognized on each mile marker.

Will there be water available?

Water stations will be available at the start line and at the halfway point. Water will also be available to all throughout the hospitality village.

What if I need medical attention?

Special Thanks to our EMS team of the Hess Houston Corporate Run 5K! If anyone needs medical attention during the event, we will have an EMS located near the start line within the company tent village. If you're on the course and need see a fellow runner in need, call 9-1-1!

Will there be any participant photos?

Spring Action Photos will be on hand at the finish line to provide high quality photos of your participation in the event. Your photos are now posted and you can search for your photos by your last name or your bib number at www.springactionphotos.com. Watch for discounts that will be offered.

Tips for better race photos:
· Wear your bib on the front of your shirt.
· Pin all 4 corners of your bib.
· Pull your cap/hat away from your face.
· If running with a friend/family, run shoulder to shoulder while your photos are shot.
· Smile

How do I find my run/walk results?

Visit the 'Results' tab on this site for the entire listing of award winners from each year. Results are posted shortly after the conclusion of each year's event. If you do not see your time on the results it is likely because of two reasons:
1. You chose to remain anonymous in the results when you registered
2. You did not go through either the start or finish line with your bib on.

If you believe there is an error with your results, please contact us for assistance with a resolution.

Are there any run 'rules'?

When running, it's important to keep in mind the "Rules of the Road". Always stay to the far right of the walking trail and pass on the left when possible. Since Memorial Park will be open during the event, be mindful of people coming from the opposite direction. If running in a group, limit yourselves to no more than two abreast to prevent any collisions on the trail. Be considerate of other park patrons and remember that this is a friendly competition. Safety should always be a top priority!

To ensure the safety of all participants, baby joggers, strollers, animals, skates, or any other vehicular apparatus are not allowed on the race course due to insurance restrictions.

While headphones are not prohibited, it is recommended to stay aware and connected with your surroundings during the race.

You mentioned company interaction...?

After you have completed your 5K, the fun continues! Swing by our post run hospitality village for refreshments, including complimentary Saint Arnold's beer/cider for 21+ participants. You'll also be able to interact with your corporate peers from across the region. The post run tent village will remain open until 7:30pm each event day. No pets allowed.

***PRIVATE COMPANY TEAM TENTS***
10'x10', 10'x20', 20'x'20, 20'x40'
CONTACT US AT info@houstoncorporate5k.com for details and availability

Company T-Shirt Contest!!!

Back by popular demand this year is the shirt contest! While not required, you may create your own company team shirt for your employees to wear at the event, and enter it into our contest. There will be a vote at the end of Corporate Run Week to determine a winner for the most creative/best designed company team shirt. The winner gets a great prize for their office.

To enter the contest, email your company design directly to us by Oct 13th at: info@houstoncorporate5k.com
Please note, company shirts are not supplied by the Hess Houston Corporate 5K.

What if I need a refund?

All registrations are non-refundable and non-transferable. Once we receive and accept your entry, you will not receive a refund. If you cannot participate, you may not give or sell your number to anyone else and entry fees will not be transferred from year to year unless event organizers cancel the event.

Why should my company participate in this event?

The Hess Houston Corporate 5K is Houston's premier corporate wellness events! Our 5K run/walk is designed to promote fitness and wellness in the workplace while encouraging team building and community engagement. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting your fitness journey, the Hess Houston Corporate 5K is the perfect opportunity to challenge your colleagues in a fun and supportive environment. With proceeds benefiting Memorial Park, you can feel good knowing that you're making a positive impact in the Houston community. Register today and join us for a one-of-a-kind wellness experience that you won't forget!

What are the history of Corporate Runs around the country?

Corporate runs, or company-sponsored running events, have a relatively short history in the United States, dating back to the early 1980s. The first corporate run was held in 1977 in New York City and was known as the Manufacturer's Hanover Corporate Challenge.

The success of the New York event inspired other cities to follow suit, and soon corporate runs were being held in cities across the country, including Chicago, Miami and San Francisco. These events typically featured a 5K race course, and were open to employees of local companies, as well as individual runners and teams.

Over time, corporate runs became increasingly popular and began to evolve beyond simple running events. Many events, including the Corporate Run in Houston, now include additional activities such as live music, food and drink vendors, and sponsor booths, and often attract large crowds of runners and spectators. As of 2024, the Houston event ranked 4th in the country in attendance for Corporate Runs only behind New York, Miami and Chicago.

Today, corporate runs are a common way for companies to promote health and wellness among their employees, build team spirit and camaraderie, and give back to their communities through charitable donations and sponsorships. They also provide an opportunity for individuals to participate in a fun and challenging athletic event, and to connect with others who share their passion for fitness and physical activity.

What are the most popular company activities in Houston?

Houston is a city with a vibrant business community, and there are many popular company events held throughout the year. Some of the most popular company events in Houston include:

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo: This annual event is the largest livestock show and rodeo in the world, and draws millions of visitors each year. Many Houston companies participate in the event by sponsoring rodeo events or hosting private events for employees and clients.
Houston Corporate 5K: This is the largest standalone 5K in Houston currently with 8,000 people participating in 2023. Many Houston companies participate in the event by sponsoring employee teams to compete for the prize of fastest company in Houston and enjoy teambuilding activities after the 5K run/walk.
Houston Astros baseball games: The Houston Astros are the city's Major League Baseball team, and attending games is a popular way for companies to entertain clients, reward employees, or host company outings.
Houston Texans football games: The Houston Texans are the city's National Football League team, and attending games is another popular way for companies to entertain clients, reward employees, or host company outings.
Houston Art Car Parade: This annual parade features elaborately decorated cars, floats, and other vehicles, and is a celebration of Houston's art and cultural scene. Many companies participate in the event by sponsoring floats or hosting viewing parties for employees and clients.

These are just a few examples of the many popular company events in Houston. Other events include holiday parties, charity fundraisers, and networking events, among others.

The Top 10 reasons you should get run or walk a 5K

Improved Physical Health: Running or walking a 5k is a great way to improve your physical health. It can help to lower your risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Increased Stamina: Running or walking a 5k can help to increase your stamina and endurance, making everyday activities easier.
Weight Management: Running or walking a 5k can help with weight management by burning calories and boosting your metabolism.
Reduced Stress: Exercise is a great stress-reliever, and running or walking a 5k can be a great way to unwind after a long day or week.
Improved Mental Health: Exercise has been shown to improve mental health, including reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Social Connection: Running or walking a 5k can be a fun way to meet new people and connect with others who share your interests.
Sense of Accomplishment: Crossing the finish line of a 5k can be a great feeling of accomplishment, boosting your confidence and self-esteem.
Challenge Yourself: Running or walking a 5k can be a great way to challenge yourself and set a goal to work towards.
Enjoy the Outdoors: Running or walking a 5k can be a great way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.
Support a Good Cause: Many 5k races are organized to support charitable causes, like the Hess 5K supporting Memorial Park, so participating in a race can also be a way to give back to your community.