DO
Listen to the races on the radio. Even if you cannot shell out the $25 to go see the race in person — because let’s be honest, every $25 counts when you owe IU upwards of $20,000 — you should at least consider listening to the race on the radio.
Maybe break out the old CD player/tape deck combo and enjoy the race while sipping a slushy margarita on your porch.
You won’t get left out of the loop, and you can avoid the crowds and the heat.
Appreciate the racers in your life. These people give up a lot of their time and energy to train for the race, and it can be super stressful.
Not to mention they often have to skip festivities so they can stay in shape when it’s their time to shine.
Make sure you thank and congratulate any of the racers you know! They’ll definitely appreciate the recognition.
Have a buddy.
If you’re going out, make sure you have a buddy.
Little 500 can be crazy, and the most important part of the weekend is making sure you can enjoy it safely!
Although it’s grim to think about, there are people in the world who take advantage of the drunkenness and the crowdedness of the weekend, so make sure you stay safe and communicate with your friends.
DON’T
Don’t feel pressure.
Little 500 is a big drinking weekend, and that’s no secret.
However, you don’t have to be drunk to have fun during all the festivities.
If drinking isn’t your thing, you can still get involved in the race or join in party games while drinking soda or water. Do you and no one can get angry.
Don’t be stupid.
Don’t be the reason Little 500 can be dangerous.
Practice a culture of care, and intervene if you see something going on.
Make sure you ask for and receive consent before any sexual activity, and if you’re questioning whether or not you got it, you probably didn’t.
Additionally, don’t destroy property or be a general nuisance.
Basically, don’t ruin it for the rest of us. We’re all here to have fun and join in the biking spirit.
Don’t be a sore loser after the race.
If your team doesn’t win, that’s okay!
The race is a time when everyone at IU can unify in their excitement because every team racing is for our school.
No matter who wins, we all will win the race within us if we know what we should and shouldn’t do.