Otter Trotter 5K FAQs
Where does the course begin and end?
The race starts on the Mississippi Aquarium walkway and ends at the Aquarium's entry plaza.
The race will be professionally timed, however since this is a fun run, we are not including a chipped timer.
What is the course like?
The 3.1-mile open route race begins at 8:15 am on the Mississippi Aquarium walkway and goes down Highway 90. Because it is an open-route, we ask our runners, walkers and strollers to please be mindful of their surroundings as there will not be barricades. The City of Gulfport Police will be at the intersection of Highway 90 and 20th Avenue intersection to help participants cross the street.
When and where is early registration package pick up?
Wednesday, November 23 from 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Participants that registered before 3:00 PM CST on Tuesday, 11/22 will be able to pick up their packets (t-shirt & bib) early.
We will be set up the walkway that leads up to Mississippi Aquarium's Entry Plaza accessible from 15th St. or the CTA parking garage.
If rain causes us to move inside, we will set up inside of lobby of the CTA building (aka old library).
Any participants registering after 3:00 PM on 11/22/22, must pick up their packet between 7:00 am – 7:45 am on race day.
Can I pick up my friend's packet?
Yes, you can. You only need the name they registered under to do so. Once packets have been picked up and signed for, Mississippi Aquarium is no longer responsible.
Is there race day packet pick up?
Yes, between at 7:00 am - 7:45 am on race day on the Mississippi Aquarium walkway. An email will go out to all participants who registered prior to race day with event details. We highly recommend packet pickup be completed before race day.
Are walkers and strollers welcome?
Absolutely! Please keep in mind that the route is open and be courteous to our runners. Strollers and walkers are to line up near the back of the race.
Will there be anything after the race?
All race participants and non-runners have early access to the aquarium beginning at 8:30 am before we open to the public at 10:00 am. There will be an award ceremony at approx. 9:30 am or once all participants have crossed the finish line.
Awards for the 1st Overall Adult Male & Female | 1st Overall Senior Male & Female | 1st Overall Youth Male & Female
Remember this is a fun run, so additional awards will be given out.
I'm running. Can my spouse/family volunteer?
We welcome them to apply to become volunteer at Mississippi Aquarium. This application can be found on our website under the Join & Give tab.
If they want to join you on campus after the race they will need to purchase a non-runner ticket.
What if it rains?
The Otter Trotter 5k is planned as a RAIN or SHINE race, except when dangerous conditions are possibly involved. We will not cancel the event if there is only light rain, however, if it were to be pouring rain we would have to cancel the event in its entirety.
In the event we have to cancel, all registrant's will receive their t-shirt and participation medal.
What would cause the race to be canceled? Would I get a refund?
Otter Trotter 5k may be canceled due to weather, health, or other uncontrollable situations.
Mississippi Aquarium is a 501c3 non-profit, no refunds will be issued. Proceeds from Otter Trotter 5k registrations will be allocated toward event expenses, animal health, wellness, and enrichment programs as well as furthering conservation efforts. Thank you for helping support us!