Should I expect any heat during the run?

June in North Carolina is no joke. By the 8:00 AM start, the humidity will already be climbing, and by the time the half-marathoners are hitting their final loops, the heat will be a legitimate factor. This isn't a race for heavy gear; stick to moisture-wicking singlets and prepare for a humid, sticky effort. If you aren't acclimated to Southern heat, this will feel significantly harder than your training runs in cooler climates.

What are the course layouts like?

Expect repetition. The courses are all out-and-back paved routes, meaning you will be seeing the same scenery multiple times. The 5K and 10K use a 1.56-mile segment, while the Half Marathon utilizes a 1.64-mile segment that you will traverse four times. It’s predictable, which is great for pacing, but it offers zero mental stimulation. You can view the routes on Mapmyrun ↗ for the shorter distances and Mapmyrun ↗ for the half marathon.

Which distance should I choose?

The 5K and 10K are straightforward, but the Half Marathon is the "main event" here. Because the half is essentially four laps of the same loop, it’s a mental game. If you want to test your ability to maintain rhythm despite monotony, go for the 13.1M. If you just want to enjoy the "Medal Madness" theme without the grind, the 5K is a breezy option.

What kind of rewards can I expect at the finish?

As the name suggests, the medals are the draw here. Every finisher receives a medal, and there is a specific award category for the best costume. If you're running this for a PB, the costume might slow you down, but if you're running for the vibes and the hardware, this is your race. There is also a gear shop on-site if you want to grab some extra swag.

What is the pricing structure?

The entry fees are quite reasonable for a US road race: $30 for the 5K, $45 for the 10K, and $65 for the Half Marathon. Kids (ages 1-15) can run for a nominal $5 fee across all distances. You can find all the registration details on Runsignup ↗. Given the low cost, it’s a fair deal, especially if you are part of the series points system.