marathon race

[jhannty]

What should I expect on a race day for a 5K or half marathon? I am running my first races this spring and am very nervous about what to expect. I am extremely shy and like to know how things work ahead of time. I am very nervous about being too slow and finishing last. Are there really racers of all abilities at these events? I currently am running about 9 1/2 minute miles and am up to about 9 miles with my training.