FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the purpose of MCYR, Inc.?
Madison County Youth Running, Inc. provides a positive and well-rounded track & field program to the scholastic student-athletes that live in and around the Madison County, Alabama area. Through a commitment to excellence in coaching and building lasting relationships within our great community, the club’s programs and it's camps demand diligence, discipline and commitment to the veterans of the club while encouraging new comers and the novice to explore this great sport of track & field, road racing, and endurance racing. Above all, the club emphasizes consistency and fun so that all in partnership with Madison County Youth Running are elevated and inspired to continue on with the sport long after their primary school days are over.

Does MCYR, Inc. compete in any competitions or meets? 
Madison County Youth Running, Inc. is NOT a "competing club" as of right now.   The primary focus of Madison County Youth Running, Inc. is to host the "Run In the Sun Cross Country Camps".  One day we may begin to start competing, but for now, it's just for fun!

Does MCYR, Inc. host any other camps or clinics during the year other than the summer? 
As of now, MCYR, Inc. does not host any other clinics, practices, camps, or competitions as all those that are involved, camp directors, counselors, board directors are all involved with their own personal careers and coaching in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons.  Things can always change though!  We will let you know if they do! 

​Who can register for the "Run In the Sun Cross Country Camp?
We advertise that only rising 5th grade through 12th grade can register but if you have a runner that is a little younger, please email one of the directors to request a concession. 

How do you get registered?
We now have online registration via RunSignUp.com.  If you like though, you can register the old fashioned way (filling out a brochure by hand, mail or bring the completely filled out brochure with payment) to your first session you attend.  
SESSIONS:  Please circle the sessions you most likely will be attending.  You are not bound to those sessions, but this does help us plan for those sessions.  You are more than welcome to move sessions.  
PAYMENT:  Online payments are credit card only.  Registration by mail or in person can have payments in cash, personal check, or credit card.  Credit card payments in person can only be made at a camp session.  
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I registered for sessions I cannot attend now, do you do a refund?
Unfortunately we are already operating just above a point of paying all of our costs.  This means we cannot offer a refund.  You can move your sessions around to other offered sessions.  

What time do you start and end camp sessions?
We start as close to 7:00 am as possible, but we do wait until all campers are registered and signed in. 
We end as close to 9:00 am as possible.  Moms & Dads:  Please make sure transportation arrangements are made prior to each camp session and that the camper is picked up at 9:00 am.  WE ARE NOT A BABYSITTING SERVICE!  

What does each camper need to bring with them each camp session?
WATER BOTTLE WITH WATER:  Each camper will receive a complimentary MCYR water bottle and we will supply water and Gatorade for replenishment.  Very important that each camper comes hydrated prior to camp. 

TOWEL:  We will do a lot of strength training and static stretching on the damp grass each session.  This will make it much more comfortable!

GOOD SHOES AND LOOSE, MOISTURE WICKING CLOTHES:  Please make sure you go to a "running store" like that of 1st Place Athletics or Fleet Feet Sports to be fit for the shoes that are specifically made for you.  Moisture wicking clothing will also make you feel more comfortable in the heat. 

Do you have a designated "medical professional" on staff?
While we don't have a designated "medical professional" on staff, our directors and counselors are CPR certified and First Aid trained.  Please make sure to fill out the back portion of the brochure for the medical needs and please inform the directors and counselors of any major allergies or medical concessions.

How do you keep up with all of the campers?
Every session will start with having each camper sign into a log book with listing a emergency cell phone number.  This will ensure that if any emergency happens or if a camper is unaccounted for, we have a record of their attendance and a number to call. 

What about inclement weather conditions?
If bad weather approaches while we are at camp, we will monitor it as it get closer and have the campers contact their transportation accordingly.  McGucken Park has multiple pavilions for shelter, as well as Palmer Park. Typically we will make a decision on whether we will cancel camp about 6:20 am. An email will be sent out as well as an announcement made on our webpage and our social media pages of our intentions for those sessions.    

How do you train and designate how each camper should be trained with such a wide range of campers that attend?
Every session, we do a group warm up routine and then we separate the entire camp into groups (for example: 6th grade and below, 7th-9th grade, and 10th-12th grade).  If a camper wants to go up or down, we are always open to making those adjustments.  This camp is all inclusive, meaning we will have novice 5th graders to 12th graders who have won state championships.  We cater to all and will make concessions for all types of athletes.      

I cannot make all of the sessions, do you have a training plan I can follow?
We do!  Please just contact one of the camp directors or camp counselors and they will be happy to send you something to follow.