Hilltop U.S.A. 5K

📦 Early Packet Pickup Options:

🏛 At American Legion Post 532
🗓 Date: Friday, July 4th
🕛 Time: 11 AM - 3 PM
📍 Location: 1571 Demorest Rd, Columbus, OH 43228 (New location!)

 

🌅 Race Day Pickup:

🗓 Date: Saturday, July 5th
🕓 Time: Starting at 7 AM, grab your gear and get ready to race!
📍 Location: 2833 Valleyview Dr, Columbus, OH 43204

🚗 Race Day Parking Options:

🅿️1️⃣ Luther B Turner Lodge:  2933 Valleyview Drive

🅿️2️⃣ Valleyview Elementary:  2989 Valleyview Drive

🅿️3️⃣ Westmoor Middle School:  3001 Valleyview Drive

🅿️4️⃣ Westmoor Park:  3015 Valleyview Drive (New location!)

Course Map:

 🏃 In-Person Race Day Timeline (Saturday, July 5th) 🏃

7:00 AM: 📦 Packet Pickup Begins
8:15 AM: 🌟 Flag-Raising Ceremony & Pre-Race Announcements
8:25 AM: ➡️ March to the Start Line
8:30 AM: 🚀 Hilltop U.S.A. Standard 5K Start
8:33 AM: 💪 Hilltop U.S.A. Ruck Race 5K Kickoff
9:30 AM: 🏆 Awards Ceremony

🥇 Top Three Overall: Male and Female champions will be recognized.
🏆 Age Categories: Top Male and Female in age groups - 13 & Under (New!), 14-19 (New!), 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70 & Over.

Safety

🌐 Virtual Race Timeline (Thursday, July 3rd - Sunday, July 6th) 🌐

🎗️Celebrate Independence Day weekend by completing your 5K distance from any location!
🗓️ Dates: July 3rd - July 6th
✏️ How to Submit Results

A Race Series for You!

Whether you thrive on head-to-head competition or prefer chasing your next personal record, the RUNColumbus Race Series is for you. A point-based race series, RUNColumbus is for runners of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels.

Your Goals. Your Series.

Register for the 2025 season and complete a minimum of six races in the series to receive the commemorative Finishers award and contend for a Championship or Age Group title. Complete the entire series and earn the distinction of being named a RUNColumbus Road Race Warrior.

Your Distance. Your Schedule.

RUNColumbus gives you race options from which to customize your series based on your objectives. Select the distances and dates that align with your goals and schedule.

So, are you ready to take the RUNColumbus Race Series challenge? Find out more details at https://runcolumbusraceseries.com/ 

1. Eligibility

• Participants must be 18 years of age or older on race day.

• Registration for the Heavy "Ruck Run" division must be completed by the designated deadline.

• A waiver acknowledging the physical demands and liability must be signed by all participants.

2. Rucksack/Backpack Requirements

• ♂ Male participants: Rucksack must weigh at least 35 lbs (15.88 kg) at the start.

• ♀ Female participants: Rucksack must weigh at least 20 lbs (9.07 kg) at the start. (Updated 2025 to align with GORUCK guidelines.)

• Added June 2025:  GoRuck Plate Carriers (RPC) are permitted in this division as long as the required weight is met and carried securely.  This clarification was confirmed with GORUCK to ensure consistency with event expectations. All other gear requirements and safety rules still apply.

• Weights must be secured and safe. Weighted vests are not permitted in this division but are allowed for an extra challenge in the In-Person Standard 5K Run/Walk.

• The contents used to meet the weight requirement cannot include items that could be collected along the course (e.g., rocks).

• The rucksack or backpack must be worn on the back throughout the race.

3. Course

• The race path will be clearly marked, and deviation will lead to disqualification.

• Water stations will be along the course. Personal water supplies are recommended.

• Trash must be disposed of properly or carried to the finish.

4. Safety and Conduct

• Instructions from race officials and volunteers must be followed at all times.

• The use of headphones is discouraged for safety; if necessary, keep one ear open.

• Good sportsmanship and respect are required.

• Non-participant assistance is not allowed.

• Medical and race officials have the authority to pull participants from the race for safety reasons.

5. Checkpoints and Finish

• Safety and rule compliance will be monitored at checkpoints.

• Completion requires crossing the finish line with the rucksack/backpack, subject to a final weigh-in.

• The focus is on completion; official times will be recorded.

• If a participant fails the final weigh-in, they will be disqualified from awards but will still be considered a finisher.

6. Awards and Recognition

• All Finishers receive a medal.

• Special awards will be given to the top three male and female finishers.

• Results will be available on the event website within 48 hours.

7. Footwear

• There are no specific footwear requirements for this division. Participants may wear boots, shoes, etc., as preferred.

8. Amendments to Rules

• Organizers reserve the right to amend rules for safety or logistical reasons, with changes communicated in advance.

We look forward to a safe, challenging, and enjoyable race for all participants. Gear up for an unforgettable experience at the Hilltop U.S.A. 5K Heavy "Ruck Run" Division!