Here are a few of the most-frequently-asked questions for the Tire Factory Black Widow Mud & Sun Run Aug. 3 at Horn Rapids Motorsports Complex:

How do I register?

What are the obstacles?

Is there a parking fee?

Parking is $10. There is also a registration fee for participants but watching is free.

What do I need at check in?

  • Photo I.D.
  • If you are Under 18 years of age we need a signed waiver by your parent/guardian. NO EXCEPTIONS.

What should I bring?

  • Appropriate footwear. The course is in a motorsports facility. For the safety of your feet you need some protection. No sandals, flip flops or bare feet.
  • A change of clothes for after the race - you will be muddy.
  • A towel
  • Gloves are recommended for the rope and wood obstacles, but are not required.
  • We do have food, beverages, water balloons (charity fundraiser) and Tire Factory Black Widow Mud & Sun Run apparel for sale

LEAVE THESE AT HOME:

  • No glass containers
  • No outside food or beverages
  • No weapons of any kind
  • No bad attitudes or aggressive behavior

When do things start?

Early registration is Friday, Aug. 2, from 4 to 9 p.m.

Main run registration is Saturday 7 to 11 a.m.

The Horn Rapids Motorsports Complex will open at 7 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 3, for registration and parking.

The first wave begins at 9 a.m. and continues every 20 to 30 minutes. The Black Widow recommends participants arrive 90 minutes before assigned wave time. Your wave time will be determined after the online registration process. You will receive a wave time email notice a week prior to the event.

*Race packets must be picked up on site. They will not be mailed to participants. You must check in regardless.

Campers may come as early as Friday afternoon. The site allows after-hour arrival and water hookup; paved sites and bathrooms with showers are near the main entrance. Cost is $25 per night. Please do not park on the facility road in front of the entrance gate overnight.

What is the length of the Black Widow course?

9 km or 5.5 miles with 16 major obstacles.

The course is designed to go through the Horn Rapids Motorsports Complex.  The elevation will change for each activity area and is not considered an obstacle, but VERY MUCH a part of the course. Train for rugged conditions including hills, sand, crawling, climbing, wading and jumping -- as well as a few surprises.

What if I can’t complete an obstacle?

If there is an obstacle that’s too much for you, go around. No shame. Personal safety is more important.

Can I pick up my friend's entry packet?

Yes, you can, but you will need:

  • Copy of friend’s photo I.D.
  • Signed letter from friend stating you are allowed to pick up their packet
  • Signed, initialed and dated participant waiver.

Where can I leave my gear?

There will be a free bag check area for your gear. Remember, the Black Widow's minions work hard and will make every effort to safeguard your belongings. However, do everyone a favor and leave valuable items at home. The Black Widow’s lawyer will not let us guarantee your gear’s safety from theft or damage.

What if I can’t race and I’ve already paid?

No refunds will be awarded for any reason with the exception of call ups for military or police service. If you cannot participate in the race, you may pick up your race packet to receive your free gear, or have a friend pick up your packet (see "friend packet pickup" instructions above).

Is the race timed?

There will be a running clock during the race but no individual times will be scored. This race is meant to test your strength, stamina and love of mud & sun.  Whether you run the course or walk, the Black Widow proclaims everyone who finishes a winner.

What if there is inclement weather?

The Tire Factory Black Widow Mud & Sun Run will happen rain or shine. Townsquare Media reserves the right to cancel or delay the event if runner, spectator, or staff safety is compromised. All efforts will be made to reschedule the event if possible, but there will be no refunds. Most likely, the weather will be hot so plan accordingly.

Do I have to be in good shape to participate?

The Tire Factory Black Widow Mud & Sun Run will be very challenging -- but not impossible -- for every level of physical fitness. We suggest runners increase physical training in anticipation of the event. You will be running more than five miles with climbing walls, mud pits and steep inclines. We recommend you run regularly (twice a week) for three miles or more and be able to complete five pull-ups and 15-20 push-ups in a row.

Do I have to sign the Tire Factory Black Widow Mud & Sun Run waiver to participate?

Yes! When you pick up your registration packets you must have a signed and initialed waiver in which you acknowledge (among other things) that by participating either online or in person the event will expose you to certain risks, including the risk of personal injury, including death. For legal reasons, we suggest you read and understand the waiver before you sign it on event day.

Can I bring friends and family to watch the run?

Yes! The course is spectator friendly. Obstacle viewing will be available at multiple locations and there is an audience viewing area at the finish line. The charity Make The Dash Count will also be selling water balloons spectators can purchase and throw at the runners! “Make the Dash Count” is a local foundation with a board full of high school students. The leaders direct the board in reviewing applications for grants to be used helping at-risk youth in the Tri-Cities area. The board then decides who receives grants from the foundation, thereby training successful young people in philanthropy while supporting at-risk youth.

Do I have to register online?

Yes, registration must be completed online.

Can I take pictures?

Yes, but don't ruin your valuables. We recommend assigning friends or family to take photos from the viewing area. If you take a digital camera or smart phone with you on the run you are solely responsible for it. We warn that serious damage or complete destruction of the device is possible. We recommend you use an older device, put it in a plastic bag, or stop by the Homeplace Photo Booth near the finish line for photos.

Are costumes allowed?

Yes! They're encouraged! No naked or semi-naked runners, spectators or guests will be tolerated.

You will be muddy and wet. We recommend you bring a large plastic bag to hold your racing clothes and towels.

Costumes may not pose potential injury to you or another runners. Nothing metal or anything that could cause injury to you or another runner -- so cloth costumes only. If you have a question on your costume send us an email or check with us at registration.

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