Frequently Asked Questions
When is Track/Cross Country Season?
For track and field: Registration typically takes place in March, and we start practice in mid-April (usually right after spring break)
For Cross Country: Registration typically takes place in July-August, and we start practice in early September (right after Labor Day)
How do I Register?
Registration for both seasons is through the Mount Pleasant Recreation Department. Registration can be done online, however, if you have never registered for an activity through MPRD before, you will need to visit in person the first time. (Either the Park West pool or the RL Jones Center)
When/where do we practice?
For track and field: All practices will be Monday/Wednesday/Thursday from 6:00-7:30pm at the Peyton Johnson Moore Track located at the Park West Recreational Complex
For Cross Country: Practices are Monday/Wednesday/Thursday from 6:00-7:00pm, and most are at the Peyton Johnson Moore Track. During the season the first three Wednesdays in September will be at the IOP beach, and the first three Wednesdays in October will be at the Ravenel bridge.
During both seasons there are Sunday practices for distance runners. This year we will meet at the track and run the Laurel Hill Park trails. Typically the Sunday runs are from 5:00 – 6:00pm, however, check the calendar to be sure, as we usually move the times earlier in the fall to account for getting dark earlier.
All practices (including times and locations) are on the full calendar if you have questions!
What are the different age groups, and what is the birth date cutoff?
Athletes participate in the age group determined by the athlete’s age as of December 31 of the current year. Here are the USATF age-group classifications for 2024.
What are the fees associated with participating?
When you register with the Mount Pleasant Recreation Department you will pay a $60 fee. That fee covers the use of the track facilities and a team shirt for picture day (MPTC does not see any of that money). In addition, you are required to pay a booster fee to MPTC. This money pays for your USATF membership card, meet entry fees, and team equipment expenses. The booster fee per child is separate and required for each athlete. More information and how to pay booster fees can be found here.
You also must purchase a uniform, which is yours to keep. You should wear the uniform during meets, and it may also be worn to practice.
How do I register for meets?
The club will register all athletes for the meets, and pay any entrance fees. You will indicate your attendance by signing up for an account on our website, and clicking on the “Meet Signup” link at the top of the page.
It is critical you tell us whether you are going or not. If you do not indicate you are participating, we will not register you, and you will not be able to participate. We will advertise the registration deadline numerous times, so you won’t miss it. If you decide not to go prior to the deadline, please also be sure to remove your name from the list,
What are the meets like?
There is additional information in the Parent Handbook, but in general, you should plan for track meets to last all day. Bring chairs, tents, coolers, etc necessary for you and your athlete to be comfortable for the day. For Cross Country, because athletes in the same age division all run as a group, the meets are much shorter. Races go from youngest age group to oldest.
Where can I find the schedule of events for the upcoming meet?
The exact schedule of events is controlled by the team hosting the meeting, however, as soon as we have the schedule, it will be posted to the website under the “calendar” tab.
What form of communication will be used by the club to reach parents/athletes?
Our primary means of communication will be the weekly email from the club president, and also through this website. Please check the site regularly. We will also post information on our Facebook page. Additionally, board members will be available at practice to address any questions or concerns.
How do I know what Track and Field events my child should do?
MPTC coaches will work with your athlete to choose the best events for their abilities. With rare exceptions, athletes are expected to select a mixture of track and field events. Athletes 12 and under may compete in 3 events (including relays). Athletes 13 and older may compete in 4 events. Please see the Parent Manual for a complete list of events.
What are my volunteer obligations?
Please see this link for more information.