This guidance is premised on the following tenets

  1. COVID-19 is spread primarily via “the Five Ps”: People in Prolonged, Poorly ventilated, Protection-free Proximity. Outdoor activities where social distancing is possible is considered low risk by most medical experts.
  2. As of September 29th, the State of Massachusetts allows outdoor gatherings of up to 100 people from lower risk communities at outdoor events and in public settings. Running clubs are allowed to operate as a low risk activity as defined by the State of Massachusetts re-opening guidelines for youth and adult amateur sports, Phase 3, Step 1.
  3. The Shamrock Running Club (SRC) is a loosely-affiliated group of individuals brought together to collectively support each other and our running habits.
  4. The SRC is open to and supportive of runners of all abilities, regardless of race, nationality, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, education, profession, religion, and political beliefs. We all bring our own unique experiences, cultures, and opinions to the group. As our founding members set out, let us continue to respect, learn from, and welcome these contributions so that we can grow as a club within the community.
  5. Members of the SRC are each responsible for
    1. acting with common sense, 
    2. understanding the risks and guidelines associated with the COVID-19 pandemic,
    3. evaluating their own personal level of risk tolerance and how their personal actions impact the SRC and our community, and
    4. respecting the decisions and actions of others. 

Our Common-Sense Guidelines for Group Workouts During the COVID-19 Pandemic

  1. If you are sick or exposed, quarantine

DO NOT come to a group workout if you have any symptoms of COVID-19, have been exposed to a person with COVID-19, have traveled to a high-risk state without quarantining and testing, or are waiting on the results of a COVID-19 test. 

We ask that you be conservative in your assessment of the risk you pose to others in the Club. We ask that you go above and beyond the basic guidelines offered here and by the State of Massachusetts to help keep the SRC healthy. 

Remember, your favorite weekly run is a weekly event and there will be another one in 14 days.

  1. Give people their space and practice social distancing

Be aware of the 6 ft rule before, during, and after all runs. We’re outside: take advantage of it and give people their personal space! 

When passing or approaching other runners/walkers, move out of the way. Make every effort to avoid coming into close proximity (while being aware of traffic). If you can’t avoid momentary close proximity, be respectful and cover your nose and mouth.

  1. Quaranteams are a real thing

If you see a cluster of people running together, recognize that they are likely a “cohort” that has been consciously running together throughout the pandemic. Be respectful and leave them alone. Unless they invade your space, just let them be.

  1. Face coverings 

While participating at SRC events, you should comply with all public health orders, including the most recent MA Governor’s Order on face coverings. This Order, effective 11/6, requires that face coverings be worn in all public spaces, including public roads and ways.

  1. We know, contact tracing is key

To aid in that process, we will start taking attendance at group runs. Should you test positive for COVID-19 or begin to experience COVID-19 symptoms during or after participating in a group workout, please let us know. While respecting your privacy, we will contact  participants in that workout to alert them that they should contact their medical practitioner immediately for further guidance.

  1. Participation in SRC activities is not mandatory

If you are not comfortable participating in group activities, if you consider yourself to be in a high risk group for COVID-19 complications, or if you feel the need to police the actions of other SRC members, please feel free to continue to run on your own until circumstances change. 

We respect your decision, and will continue to support and celebrate you virtually.

Further Resources