The 2026 Snowbird Challenge takes place on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Riverwest Preserve in Greenville, South Carolina. The weather in Greenville during late January typically features cold temperatures, with averages ranging from the low 30s to upper 40s Fahrenheit, and potential for frost or light precipitation. This event is a loop-based race hosted by the Upstate Race Series, featuring distances from a 5-miler to a 50K, including a team relay option. The course is run on a 2.62-mile loop consisting primarily of paved cart paths and sidewalks, with some short trail sections including wooden bridges and shaded paths, set within a scenic nature preserve.
What distances are available for this event?
→Frostbite Frolic (5 Miler): Approximately 2 laps (solo run)
→Rudolph Run (Half Marathon): 5 laps totaling 13.1 miles (solo run)
→Frozen Cheeks Challenge (50K): 12 laps totaling 31.44 miles (solo run)
→Reindeer Relay: 12 total laps split among a team of 2 to 4 runners
Is this event a trail run?
The event is primarily a paved loop race with minor trail elements. The course is run on a 2.62-mile loop located on the former Riverwest Golf Course, now a nature preserve. The surface consists of paved cart paths, sidewalks, and some short trail sections (wooden bridges, shaded paths). While not a technical trail race, it blends paved and light natural surfaces in a scenic, park-like setting.
What type of footwear is recommended?
Standard road shoes are suitable for the course, though light trail shoes are also acceptable.
How does the relay format work?
→The relay covers 12 total laps split among 2–4 teammates.
→Only one runner per team is on the course at a time.
→Lap limits per runner:
• 2-person team: max 6 laps each
• 3-person team: max 4 laps each
• 4-person team: max 3 laps each
What are the key race rules?
→Lap Window: You must complete each 2.62-mile loop within 45 minutes.
→Timing: If you finish a lap early, you must wait for the next lap start (e.g., finish in 25 minutes → 20-minute break).
→Disqualification: Failing to finish a lap within 45 minutes disqualifies you from continuing.
→Start Signal: A kettle bell sound signals the start of each new lap.
→Cups: No disposable cups are provided; you must bring your own reusable bottle or cup.
How much does registration cost?
→50K: $65 (Youth: $15)
→Half Marathon: $50 (Youth: $15)
→5 Miler: $40 (Youth: $15)
→Relay (per person): $40 (Youth: $15)
→Bundle Deal: Save 25% when registering for 5+ Upstate Road Series events.
→Registration closes on January 24, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST.
What is included in registration?
→Finisher medal (awarded for completing the minimum distance of 2+ laps)
→Custom race bib
→Temporary race tattoo (themed design)
→Event sticker and themed giveaways
→Free downloadable race photos
→Post-race music and hangout zone access
→Park entry fee coverage
What amenities are available at the event?
→Aid Station: Located in the Athlete Village (Start/Finish line). It offers water, Tailwind, Coke, ginger ale, and snacks such as pickles, chips, cookies, and Little Debbie treats. Bring your own cup.
→Athlete Village: Personal tent setup is allowed between start/finish lines. Participants are encouraged to bring chairs, coolers, heaters, and recovery gear.
→Parking: Located 150 meters away from the staging area.
→Packet Pickup: Begins 1 hour before the race start (7:00 AM).
Are there awards and series points?
→Overall Awards: Top 3 Male & Female solo finishers receive trophies.
→Age Group Awards: Top 3 M/F in standard age brackets receive Age Group Series Medals.
→Series Points: Participants earn points toward the Upstate Road Series year-end recognition.
→Relay Eligibility: Relay teams are not eligible for overall or age-group awards.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is 2026 Snowbird Challenge?
A: The event takes place on 24 January 2026.
Q: Where is the event held?
A: The event is held in Greenville, United States.
Q: What distances are available?
A: Available distances: 5 miles, 13.1 miles, 50 km.
