FAQ

All the information you can bear...

Event Details

Date: December 16th, 2023
Time: Runners start at 6pm
Location: Sunset Hills, Greensboro, NC

What do I get?

1.  Running of the Balls long sleeve t-shirt.
2.  A jingle bell necklace to wear during the race.
3.  Music.
4.  Post race snack and hot cocoa.
5.  A good time.

How much does it cost?

$55 for adults. $26 for anybody who can fit in a Youth Sized Shirt. Ha!

Packet pick-up?

Packet pick-up is where you'll "check-in" and pick up your packet of goodies. Your packet includes your t-shirt, race number and any extra goodies we can score from sponsors before the race. Packet pick-up will be “drive-thru” style on Wednesday - Friday the week prior to the race from 5-8pm at Peace United Church of Christ in Greensboro.

Can I do this?

Absolutely. Anyone can do this. It's 90% mental 10% physical. Feel free to walk, crawl, run, cry, or do anything else you need to do to finish.

Can I train for the ROTB?

Sure, but it's Christmas time and why would you want to? I say you come out and go slower than you expect to enjoy it more than you should.

Is it safe?

Nothing worth doing in life is absolutely safe, but we take every precaution possible to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable time. There will be EMTs on site in case of an emergency. In the end, just like life, you race at your own risk.

No race day packet pick-up.

In an effort to limit the number of crowds during the event, we’ve eliminated this option.

What do I need to pick up my packet?

Your registration email, patience and a smile.

Can I pick up a friend's packet?

Yep. Just have your friend forward you the email they received with details regarding their registration.

Can I have my packet mailed to me?

Yes. Select USPS shipment during the registration process and your packet will me mailed to you 1 week prior to the event for a small fee.

What’s up with the Carbon Offset Fee?

Each year we raise money to purchase carbon offsets for the lighted ball display across the entire neighborhood of Sunset Hills through your participation in the race. This is a way to give back to the Sunset Hills community by taking care of the effect on Global Warming from their generous and joy filled light display.

What should I wear?

It's December, so bundle up. Or don't and run fast.

When does the fun start?

Runners will start at 6pm. Walkers will start after runners clear the course. Music, vendors and fun will begin approximately 30 minutes before the start of the race.

Parking anyone?

Parking will be available in designated areas. We will inform you of these in the email prior to the race. Please don't try to park in Sunset Hills. We'd like to do this again next year and if the neighbors feel like they're being invaded, the chances will be slim. Plus, if you park far away, you can consider the walk a warm-up.

Bad weather?

We really hope not. If so, the race will go on! It's not logistically possible to have a rain date, but I can assure you we will be suffering more than anyone else out there.

Is the race timed?

Nope. We never have gotten the distance just right, so it's kinda useless. Enjoy not having to hustle.

Can I mail in entries?

Nope. It's the 21st century.

Can I get a refund?

Nope. Too much planning and advance costs to let folks slide. You can transfer your entry to someone else by emailing us via our contact us page.

COVID?

In the event that Guilford County Health, The City of Greensboro, and/or any other local/state/federal entity with jurisdiction decides that the health environment is unsafe for a large gathering, the Running of the Balls will transition to a Virtual Event. No refunds will be given. Participants will still receive their race swag and our undying love. We just won’t be able to run around in circles together.

Is there race day registration?

There is no race day registration available. Too many crazy details.

What’s in the Waiver of Liability?

We’re glad you asked. Click here to enjoy. All participants will be required to digitally sign this waiver of liability during the registration process.

Directions?

The start/finish area for The Running of the Balls is located at the corner of E Greenway Drive and Rolling Road:

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