Safety

Participant and Spectator Safety

Participant and spectator safety throughout race weekend is our top priority. To ensure a safe and secure event, we ask everyone review the following information and procedures.

Event Alert System

The Urban Bourbon Half Marathon and 5K uses a simple color-coded Event Alert System (EAS) to communicate course conditions leading up to and on race day. Levels range from Low (green) to Moderate (yellow) to High (red) to Extreme (black), based primarily on weather and other factors. Before race day, all staff, volunteers and participants should familiarize themselves with anticipated conditions, safety procedures and the EAS. Updates will be shared via email and social media, and on race day through PA announcements and flag warnings at the start, finish and water stations.

Inclement Weather Communication

Because Louisville’s fall weather can be unpredictable, race staff and local meteorologists will closely monitor forecasts. The event will take place rain or shine, but if lightning is detected within 10 miles of the start line, officials may delay the race until conditions improve. Any changes will be announced through UBHM social media channels and over the PA system. Please note that registration fees are non-refundable if the race is canceled, and due to required road closures, the event cannot be rescheduled.

There are no race registration refunds if the race is canceled. Due to the nature of the event and the necessary LMPD personnel required for road closures, the race cannot be moved to another date.

Medical Aid Station and Medical Personnel

Medical support will be available throughout the course. Medical/EMS teams will be stationed at Lynn Family Stadium (water stop 1/6), at water stop 3 in Cherokee Park near mile 5, and at water stop 4 in Big Rock Park near mile 8. A medical/EMS presence will also be positioned at the finish line. EMS coverage will be provided by trucks only; bike units will not be available.

LMPD Officers

Officers from the Louisville Metro Police Department will be stationed along the route, working overtime to ensure safety. Each officer will have a radio to communicate directly with the LMPD Lieutenant in charge, who can relay information to race staff if needed.

Help Us Help You

To help us keep the race safe, please follow these rules:

• Do not leave bags, backpacks, or items unattended — they will be removed by security.
• Only registered participants with official race numbers are allowed on the course.
• Avoid littering and respect Louisville’s parks and streets.
• No unofficial race vehicles, strollers, or wheeled devices (except approved wheelchair participants) are permitted.
• Pets are not allowed on the course.
• Spectators must remain off the course and clear of the roads to avoid interference.

See Something Say Something

Finally, remember that safety is a shared responsibility. If you see something suspicious, alert race staff or law enforcement immediately. LMPD officers will be present along the route and at Fourth Street Live! to assist.