Should I prepare for extreme heat?

Yes. You are running in North Texas in late June. Expect temperatures to climb rapidly toward the mid-90s (35°C+) shortly after the later waves start. Since this is a "casual" run, don't expect the high-octane hydration infrastructure of a major marathon. Wear moisture-wicking gear, use plenty of sunscreen, and if you aren't a heat-adapted runner, stick to the earlier waves (7:30 AM) or the shorter distances.

What are my distance and timing options?

The event offers a 1 Mile Fun Run, 5K, 10K, and a Half Marathon. They use a wave system to keep the crowd manageable: Wave A starts at 7:30 AM, Wave B at 8:00 AM, and Wave C at 8:30 AM. For anyone serious about the distance, I’d aim for Wave A to beat the Texas sun. If you are doing the virtual option, you have total flexibility to run whenever you want.

What can I expect to receive at the finish?

Since there is no formal timing chip, this is more about the celebration than the stats. You’ll get a finisher medal, a T-shirt (which is shipped to you if you're in the U.S.), and either a finisher towel or another small giveaway. You also get a digital training pack and a certificate. If you want the premium feel, pay the extra $5 for the technical shirt—it's worth it for the heat.

How do I track my performance without a timing chip?

Don't expect a podium or an official leaderboard. You’ll need to rely on your own GPS watch or phone apps like Strava or Nike Run Club. Once you've finished, you can manually submit your results to The Best Races ↗ to make it "official" for their records.

Is the event worth the entry fee?

If you are looking for a "race" to set a personal best, the lack of timing might feel like a letdown. But if you value the swag (shipped to your door) and the ability to connect with local run clubs, it’s a fair deal. It’s a low-friction way to participate in a significant cultural moment without the stress of a massive, crowded marathon setup.