I have read and understood the information regarding the St. Joseph’s Indian Institution ‘Unity Run’ (“this event”) and I agree to participate in this event at my own risk. I know that participating in this event is a potentially hazardous activity, which could cause serious injury, death or property loss. I am aware of the risks involved, some of which have been summarized in the ‘Risk Factors’ handed over to me, and I hereby acknowledge the same. I am aware that the risks involved are not limited to the Risk Factors, and I assume all the risks involved in running this event.
I agree to comply with the rules and directions of the organiser and race officials. I agree to abide by any decision of a race official regarding any aspect of my participation in this event, including the right of any official to deny or suspend my participation for any reason whatsoever.
I hereby acknowledge and agree to waive, release, keep indemnified and discharge all persons, institutions, corporations, associations and bodies involved or otherwise engaged in organizing, promoting or staging this event and their servants, agents, representatives, officers and employees. This includes but is not limited to race officials, agents, volunteers, event organisers and sponsors whether or not the loss, injury or damage is attributed to the act or neglect of any one or more of them.
I understand that competing in this event will involve running and walking on remote wilderness trails with rocks, roots, stream crossings, and up and down steep terrain. I assume all risks associated with running in this event, including but not limited to steep drops on or near the course, challenging terrain, rocks, roots, adjacent streams, motor vehicle traffic, slippery surfaces, loose rocks, soft sand, adverse weather conditions, heat exhaustion, dehydration, hypothermia, venomous snakes, wild boars etc., all such risks being known and appreciated by me.
I hereby allow and permit the use of my image(s), photograph(s), motion picture(s), recording(s) and/or any other record of this event to be used in the media and for marketing purposes of this event.
I hereby attest and confirm that I am physically fit and am sufficiently trained to participate in this event. I hereby consent to receive medical treatment which may be deemed advisable in the event of injury, accident and/or illness during this event. I understand that all medical and/or emergency evacuation costs for participants or crew will be borne by that person or their heirs. The race organizers are in no way liable or responsible for medical costs or emergency evacuation.
I understand that this event does not provide for refunds in the event of a cancellation, and by signing this waiver, I consent that I am not entitled to a refund if the event is canceled before or during the event.
I confirm that I have never been diagnosed with any cardiovascular diseases and have not been advised by Doctors to do physical activities under supervision. I also confirm that I have never been diagnosed with any chronic illness and have never experienced dizziness or chest pain while running or during any physical activity.
RISK FACTORS
Running Road Races are physically challenging events and participation in it presents medical risks, many of which can be extremely serious or fatal.
Participation in this event is at the runner’s own risk. In case of a medical emergency, runners will be transported to the nearest hospital. However, due to traffic, difficult terrain or inaccessibility, access to the affected participant/runner, may take time, even upto a few hours in some cases.
Participants are advised to consult their own doctor prior to participation in this event. Runners are expected to be aware of the stress effects related to participating in trail ultra marathon events, and be adequately prepared for the same. It is important for each entrant to recognize the potential physical and mental stresses, which may arise from participation in this event. Runners may experience dehydration, hyponatremia, disorientation and mental and physical exhaustion. Race officials will do all that they reasonably can to ensure a safe event, but ultimately runners must understand their own limitations. This is an event where it is better to follow the dictates of your body – not your ambitions! Adequate physical and mental conditioning prior to the event is mandatory. If you have not been able to prepare properly, do not attempt to run!
Runners must appreciate the risks associated with participation in this event. Actions may have to be taken on your behalf under extreme time constraints and adverse circumstances. The race officials will make reasonable efforts to give assistance whenever possible. Ultimately and primarily, you are in charge, and you are solely responsible for creating your own crisis. Be careful, be responsible, and do not exceed your own abilities and limitations.
Some of the main risks of this event, but certainly not all of them, are listed. These should be understood and remembered by all runners, before and during the event. Please note that death can result from several of the risk conditions discussed below or from other aspects of participation in the race.
Renal shutdown:
Cases of renal shutdown (acute renal failure) have been reported in other running races/marathons/ ultra-marathons. Adequate hydration will help averting this serious condition. If not treated, renal shutdown can cause permanent impairment of kidney function. IT IS CRUCIAL TO HYDRATE YOURSELF USING ELECTROLYTE FLUIDS DURING THE RUN AND FOR SEVERAL DAYS FOLLOWING THE RUN.
Heat stroke/hyperthermia:
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are serious risks. These conditions can cause death, kidney failure and brain damage. It is important that runners be aware of the symptoms of impending heat injury. These include but are not limited to: nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, irritability, lassitude, confusion, weakness, and rapid heart rate. Impending heat stroke may be preceded by a decrease in sweating and the appearance of goose bumps on the skin, especially over the chest. Heat stroke may progress from minimal symptoms to complete collapse in a very short period of time. Remember that your muscles produce tremendous amounts of heat when running up and down hill. The faster the pace, the more heat is produced. A light-colored shirt and cap, particularly if kept wet during the event, can help. If signs of heat exhaustion occur, we recommend rapid cooling by applying ice to the groin, neck and armpits. We also recommend that runners keep themselves adequately hydrated and carry fluids between aid stations/checkpoints.
Risks associated with low sodium and chloride counts :
Low sodium levels (hyponatremia) in ultra-marathon runners have been associated with severe illness requiring hospitalization. It is important for long-distance athletes to use fluids containing electrolytes to replace the water and salts lost during the run. WATER INTAKE ALONE IS NOT SUFFICIENT, as water intoxication and possibly death may result. This problem may in fact worsen after the Race, as the non-electrolyte-containing fluid which has been accumulating in the stomach is absorbed. Potassium and calcium replacement may also be important, although these levels change less with fluid loss and replenishment. Signs and symptoms of hyponatremia include; weight gain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, headache, confusion, in coordination, dizziness, muscle twitching/cramping and fatigue. If left untreated, it may progress to seizures, pulmonary and cerebral edema, coma and death. The best way to achieve proper electrolyte and fluid balance is to hydrate with fluids containing proper amounts of electrolytes and to replace with sodium-containing foods or supplements, if required, and as determined during your training. Potassium, while present in many electrolyte-replacement solutions, may also be replaced with fruit, such as bananas or oranges. Beer or other alcoholic beverages should not be taken at any time during the run.
Stray Animal hazards:
There may be several stray animals in the area. Runners must exercise caution and respond appropriately. Should you be bitten/chased by a stray animal, there is absolutely no assurance that aid or help will arrive in time to give you effective assistance. Under no circumstances do not approach any stray animal. Runners are advised to be careful and avoid eye contact. Runners are advised to stay out of their way and not approach them under any circumstances. Further, the area is also prone to insects and worms such as mosquitoes and leeches. We recommend that runners cover up and carry adequate insect repellants.
Injuries from falling :
Falling is an ever-present danger while running, with potentially serious consequences. Parts of the race course are narrow, uneven and slippery. Extreme care must be taken at all times, especially in the dark.
Muscle necrosis :
It has been found that some degree of muscle cell death in the legs occurs from participation in long distance races. The recovery can take several months. This seems to be a bigger problem in runners who become dehydrated or have overexerted themselves.
Overuse injuries :
Obviously, innumerable overuse injuries can occur, especially in the knee and the ankle and leg muscles and tendons. Sprains and fractures can easily occur. Blisters may cause you to have a sore day, or in severe circumstances may prevent you from finishing. Runners must have a working knowledge of how to treat themselves for all of these problems.
Common fatigue :
One of the dangers you will encounter is fatigue. Fatigue, combined with the effects of dehydration and other debilitating conditions can produce disorientation and irrationality.
Getting lost :
Although the course will be adequately marked, it is definitely possible to lose your way. If you believe at any time that you may not be on the correct course, do not attempt to find your way. If you are 100% sure of your route, backtrack to where you last saw sign marker and try to find other markers showing the direction of the course. If you are unable to find your way, stay where you are! Wandering randomly will take you farther from the course and reduce your chances of being found by the sweep team
Difficulty in gaining access to or locating injured participants :
Some parts of the course/trail are remote and inaccessible by motor vehicles. Accordingly, in spite of the safety precautions taken by the race officials, there is absolutely no assurance that aid or rescue assistance will arrive in time to give you effective assistance should you become sick, incapacitated, injured or attacked. If you do become injured, exhausted or ill: STAY ON THE COURSE. You will be found there either by another runner, or the sweeper that monitors the progress of runners during the event. If you feel dizzy, disoriented or confused, do not risk falling. Sit down until you recover or are found. An unconscious runner even a few feet off the COURSE could be impossible to find until it is too late. If you are assisted by individuals who are not associated with the race officials and you choose to leave the COURSE, you MUST notify the official at the nearest checkpoint of your decision to withdraw. Although medical and other personnel will assist you when possible, remember that you are ultimately responsible for your own well-being on the COURSE. Only you will know how your body and mind feel at any given time. Monitor yourself during the entire run, and prepare yourself to drop out at the nearest check-point if you find that it just isn’t your day. As you continue past each checkpoint, be aware of the number of kilometers to the next one, realizing that getting rescue vehicles into these areas can be difficult, if not impossible.