Frederick Summer Solstice 8K

Herald the beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere by running the 8th annual Frederick Summer Solstice 8k (Frederick County's Original Twilight Race), presented by the Frederick Steeplechasers Running Club. Run the race and then stick around as the sun sets for our legendary celebration party with craft beer and live music!

 

REGISTRATION IS OPEN!

 

You've got questions - we've got answers!

 

 Registration 

Will there be race-day registration for the in-person race?

Online registration will remain open through the start of the race at 7:30pm on race night However, you must register online and pay via credit card. We will not have registration kiosks or paper forms at the race venue, and cannot accept cash/checks. If you need to register onsite, you may do so using your phone. 

HOWEVER - the last few days before the race carry the highest entry fees, so we really recommend that you pre-register.

 

Can I transfer between the 8K, Fun-Run?

Yes. You can transfer between events until the June 7th deadline. If you transfer to a more expensive event, you'll need to pay the difference. If you transfer to a less expensive event, we cannot provide a refund, but rest assured that your entry fee will help our charitable beneficiary, Blessings In A Backpack, to feed hungry kids.

 

How do I transfer between events?

From your RunSignUp account, navigate to your registration and use the Manage Registration capability to do the transfer. See: https://help.runsignup.com/support/solutions/articles/17000062922-transfer-to-another-event

You can also find the Manage Registration link in your confirmation email.

If you have problems with the transfer, send us email at info@frederickss8k.com for help.

 

I can't use my registration. Can I get a refund or transfer it to someone else?

Sorry - we aren't able to issue refunds or deferrals and we don't permit bib transfers between participants. Your entry fee supports our charitable beneficiary, Blessings In A Backpack. If you are concerned about your ability to participate, we encourage you to take advantage of the insurance option when you register.

 

How does the optional event insurance work?

If you chose to purchase event insurance when you registered, it will show up as a separate charge on your credit card.  You will also receive a separate confirmation email from RegShield within 30 minutes of your transaction. The event insurance covers issues such as injury/illness, work travel conflict, layoff/termination, mechanical breakdown, etc. It does not provide a refund if you simply choose not to participate or have a personal or work conflict.

To file a claim, we recommend selecting the “File A Refund Request” at the bottom of the confirmation email. Alternatively, you can visit the web page: https://www.fanshield.com/file-a-refund-request  and select the RegShield option.

 For more information, see:  https://help.runsignup.com/support/solutions/articles/17000133083-what-is-protecht-regshield-

 

 Course-Scoring 

Will there be water on the 8K course?

Yes! We will have three aid stations with water. See our Course Map for the locations.

 

Is the course certified?

The Frederick Summer Solstice 8K course has been professionally measured and certified by USATF.  See: https://certifiedroadraces.com/certificate/?type=l&id=MD19008NP 

 

Will there be mile markers?

Each mile is marked with an 18"x24" yard sign. Watch for them on the side of the course.

 

Is the course closed?

While we have permission from the Town of Walkersville to close the roads along the course route, we cannot control local traffic from entering the course at times. Our traffic flaggers and course marshals will do their best but we advise all runners to remain vigilant. 

 

Is there a time limit?

Yes. For the safety of our runners and volunteers, we need to have everyone off the course before dark. All runners must finish by 8:45pm, which equates to a 15 min/mile pace. We will ask anyone still on the course after 8:45pm to move to the sidewalk to get back to the race venue. Finish times will not be provided for runners finishing with a time greater than 1:15.

 

Is the race scored via clock time or chip (net) time?

The overall winners will be scored by clock time. All others will be scored using their net time, so there is no need to crowd the starting line.

 

What about real-time results? How do I know if I've won an award?

We will not be interrupting the music with an awards ceremony. After you finish, you can simply scan the QR code on your bib to get your result and see if you've qualified for an award. If so, come to the awards table near at the Activities Building (where packet pickup was held) and our volunteers will be happy to connect you with your award. 

If you don't have a phone with you, we'll have results kiosks available for checking your results.

If you notice a discrepancy in your result, let us know right away so that we can work with the timer to straighten it out.

 

Can I run with a stroller? Or my dog?

Strollers are allowed in the One-Mile Fun Run but are not permitted in the 8K event.

Sorry - you'll have to run without Fido at the Summer Solstice 8K. We don't allow dogs on the course for either event.

 

 What if...? 

What about severe weather?

Oh boy! Summer storms are not great for outdoor events, and your safety is a priority for us.

We don't worry about rain. We do worry about lightning, high winds, and tornadoes. And excessive heat.

Unfortunately, summer storms are difficult to predict, even when they are in the forecast. Sometimes they are hyper-local and pop-up/dissipate without much warning. So it's likely that any decisions about storms may need to be made close to the race start time. If there is lightning in the vicinity, we may need to delay the start by up to 30 minutes. Runners will be asked to shelter in their vehicles, and we'll communicate as best we can.

Heat can also be a dangerous issue. If the temps are unusually high, we will encourage runners to take it easy, or even drop out if training and/or heat acclimatization is marginal. It's possible that the race might be downgraded to a Fun Run to encourage everyone to back off of the pace. It's unlikely that we'd need to cancel the race, but extremes are always a possibility.

In 2021, storms were predicted but they just slid around us in the early evening and all we had was a bit of cooling rain during the race. And a beautiful rainbow. It was kind of magical!

 

What if I can't finish the race or I'm not feeling well?

You can ask any volunteer (course marshal or water stop volunteer) to contact race medical support for assistance.

 

What if I forget my picture ID and want to use my beer ticket?

If that happens, it's not going to be a beer night for you. There are no exceptions. We don't care how old you look or what age your race registration has. We cannot risk our liquor license and we know you'll understand.

 

Oops - what if I accidentally drink too much at the party?

PLEASE don't drive home! We will be happy to help you get an Uber/Lyft or put you in touch with SOS Safe Ride. This local nonprofit will drive you and your car home. 

 

What if I bring my dog?

Dogs are not allowed on the course. Leashed and well-behaved dogs are permitted in the celebration area.

 

 One-Mile Fun Run 

Who should participate in the Fun Run/Walk?

The Fun Run/Walk is perfect for our participants who may not be interested in the 8K distance on race night. Walking or jogging a mile is very doable and you'll likely beat all of our 8K runners back to the finish line! You'll receive the same race shirt and a drink ticket, and your registration will support Blessings In A Backpack.

 

Is the Fun Run/Walk timed? Am I eligible for an award?

The Fun Run/Walk is non-competitive and is not timed. Hence participants are not eligible for awards. Enjoy the course at your own pace.

 

What about strollers in the Fun Run/Walk?

Strollers are allowed in the Fun Run/Walk, but please be careful of other participants. Infants and children in strollers under the age of 5 do not need to be registered participants.

2016

 

2017

 

When you complete your race, the party begins! The Walkersville Volunteer Fire Department Carnival Grounds is the venue for celebrating the Summer Solstice and your own accomplishment. Grab a beverage, get some food, and enjoy the warm summer evening.

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• One complimentary beer for runners 21+

• Option for non-alcoholic beer or flavored sparkling water

• Additional drink tickets for sale ($6)

• Food trucks onsite

• Live Music

• Race Night Expo 

 

 

      

 

FOOD

Grab 'n Go snack bags will be given to runners at the finish line.

​We will be bringing two food trucks again this year!  Stick around for dinner while you enjoy the music.

 

 

Smitty's was at our 2024 race - YUM!

 

BEER

We are excited to announce we are partnering with RAK Brewing Co to provide both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage options on the night of our race and post-race-party!

 

 

You MUST bring photo ID in order to be served beer. No exceptions.

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Please drink responsibly. Consider using Frederick County's SOS Safe Ride to get you and your vehicle home safely if you find you've overdone it. Our volunteers will be happy to help you arrange transportation.

 

 

EVENT SCHEDULE

Thursday, June 11
     4:00-7:00pm: Packet Pickup at  Charm City Run - 925 West Seventh St, Frederick

​Saturday, June 13
     6:00pm: Packet Pickup at race venue

     7:25pm: Athletes Serving Athletes 8k race start

     7:30pm: General 8K Race Start

     7:32pm: One Mile Fun Run/Walk Start

     8:00-10:00pm: PARTY!  

 

Race-Day Registration
Online registration is open through race day, but please be aware that entry fees increase on Thursday June 12. 

Race day registrants must register online. There will be no in-person registration at the race venue.

 

Participant Instructions

Will be published closer to race day.

 

ONE-MILE FUN RUN/WALK

We are excited to offer an option for participants to choose a fun run/walk event.  Start 5 minutes after the 8K runners,  turn around at the half-mile point, hit the finish line, and start enjoying the celebration! Fun Run/Walk participants will receive the same race shirt and drink ticket as 8K registrants. We hope you'll join us in supporting Blessings In A Backpack with your participation.

​Just for fun, gather up some of your friends/family and run/walk a mile as a team!

​Strollers are welcome to participate in the Fun Run/Walk.

 

8K RACE

8K Course

     

Click for larger image and pdf download.

The 8K course is USATF-certified in Walkersville, MD.   

Certification #: MD19008NP

 

Awards

Overall awards are based on gun time, all others are based on net time.

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   Individual Awards

     1st Overall Male/Female  (including store gift card/gift bag from Charm City Run)

     1st Masters (40+) Male/Female

     1st Overall Non-Binary

     Top 3 Age Group Male/Female:  19 and under, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70+

   

    8K Team Award

        Award to top team

 

8K Teams

1. Teams are co-ed

2. The minimum team size is three with at least one female

3. The first team member to register creates the team name, and other team members specify the team name during registration

4. The team score will be the sum of the net times of the three fastest team members with at least one female. If a team has fewer than three scoring finishers, the team will be disqualified.

 

Time Cutoff

For the safety of our participants, the 8K event has a time cutoff of one hour and 15 minutes (15 minute/mile pace).  We ask that you return to the finish line on the sidewalk if you have not completed the course by the cutoff. 

 

Hydration

Cupped water will be available at three water stops along the course, and bottled water will be provided at the finish line. If you need hydration before the race, we suggest that you bring it with you.

 

RACE SHIRTS

This year you'll have a choice of an awesome short-sleeve technical shirt or a tank.  Register by our shirt deadline of May 20 to be guaranteed your preferred shirt size/style. After the deadline, size/style selection may be limited but exchanges will be available after packet pickup on race night.

 

 

PARKING

Parking will be located behind the Fire Hall. Volunteers will be onsite to direct you.

​PLEASE enter W. Frederick St from the south off of Rt 194 (Woodsboro Pike), as shown on the diagram. The road will be closed at the north intersection of Rt 194 and Frederick Street.

​

Do NOT park in the lot adjacent to the start/finish between the street and the celebration area.  Fire Company vehicles need priority access to that lot.

 

RESULTS

Race results will be available via shared-use kiosks. Runners can also check their results online at the race website.  The QR code on your race bib will take you directly to your individual results.

Check your results here.

 

PARTY

We've got a great after-party planned. Check out the details on our Party Page! 

 

MEDICAL SUPPORT

Finish line medical support provided by MedStar Health.

 

POLICIES

• No bib transfers, no deferrals, and no refunds (See here for FSRC Policy). If you are concerned that you may not be able to participate, you may purchase race insurance when you register.

• ​Weather Policy - We love the summer season, but occasionally the weather can be uncooperative.  At the discretion of the Race Director and Town of Walkersville municipal and emergency officials, the race may be postponed, changed to an untimed Fun Run, or canceled. Sorry, no refunds.

• ​Any runner finishing more than 75 minutes after race start may not receive an official time.  If you are not maintaining a 15 min/mile pace, please get up on the sidewalk after 8:45pm (assuming no rain delay).

• ​For your safety and the safety of those around you, headphones are discouraged.

• ​Dogs, bicycles, and skates,  are not allowed on the course. Strollers are not permitted in the 8K event but may participate in the One Mile Fun Run.  Children under the age of 5, who are pushed in a stroller by a registered adult, do not need to be registered.

• Participants in violation of this policy are subject to disqualification and removal from the course. Note: Strollers/sports chairs associated with the Athletes Serving Athletes program are permitted in both events.

• ​FSRC has adopted the guidelines outlined by USATF regarding Transgender and Transsexual Athletes. (See here for FSRC policy)

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!

 

Without our generous sponsors, we would not be able to bring a first-class race to our participants, while also raising significant funds for our charitable beneficiary.

​

In 2025 the Frederick Steeplechasers Running Club donated net proceeds of $12,791 for the Frederick chapter of Blessings in a Backpack, addressing childhood hunger by sending food home with Frederick area schoolchildren on weekends.  Our donation is largely funded through the generous support of our sponsors.

 

 

Click to view/download our 2025 Sponsor Opportunity Package - 2026 version coming soon!

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Click to view/download our 2025 Sponsor Recap Report

 

 

The 2026 race will again benefit Blessings in a Backpack, and we are counting on the support of our sponsors!

 

SIGN ON AS A SPONSOR

"This is just a first-rate event on all levels: registration, pick-up, professional timing and photos, free beer. Very smooth and super fun at every turn!!"

About the 2024 race...

"Spectacular, well-organized event - Well done! Thank you for the clear communications leading up to the event as well."

 

"I'll be back next year!"

 

"One of the best races I've run, and I've been racing for over 25 years!..."

 

 

About the 2023 race...

"Well-organized race, I had a great time!"

 

"This was my first year doing this race, but I already want to do it again next year and bring my fam and friends with me."

 

"Professionally done! Courteous organization and volunteers, good course and after party. Plenty of free parking very close. Great venue all around."

 

"Love this race - the course is great, everything is well-organized, and it is fun to socialize after the race."

 

About the 2022 race...

"Such a nice course and group of people. The after-party is a blast!"

 

"This was my first time running this race. I loved it. Well organized, lots of volunteers, well-marked course, great timing system (immediate results!)"

 

"It’s probably the easiest event for parking and logistics. Great location."

 

"It was fabulous. I wouldn't change a thing, including the weather"

 

"One of my favorite races! Nice course and fantastic after party!"

 

About the 2021 race...

"This was one of the most enjoyable races I have ever run!"

 

"The course was PERFECT! Nice and fast, with plenty of variety of scenery and a great assortment of local cheerleaders!"

 

"This is just a first rate event on all levels: registration, pick-up, professional timing and photos, free beer and ice cream. Very smooth and super fun at every turn!!"

 

"The course was great. I also really enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere of the after party. My favorite part was probably the free ice cream though." 

 

About the 2019 race...

"Extremely well organized, supremely supported great community involvement. the cooling towels were wonderful. great sponsors and the post race food was exceptional and had great variety! Traffic control was perfect! " 

 

"A well-supported evening race with great beer and a live band! "

 

"Excellent event - all aspects were great - great support on the course, nice course with good markings, etc. I thoroughly enjoyed this race - it was my first race longer than a 5K in several years."

 

"This was my favorite race that I have ran over the years. The location and course were fantastic. I also love that it is an evening race with an after party. Great to see local folks out cheering us on and also the beautiful park. Also extremely well organized event. Will definitely do it next year. "

 

"Great venue, very well organized, fast course, volunteers were awesome, easy packet pick up, nice getting ID for beer early, nice expo, great music, nice awaerds ceremony, quick results., great food " 

Net proceeds will be donated to the Frederick chapter of Blessings in a Backpack.  The local chapter works in partnership with the national Blessings in a Backpack organization to provide weekend food to children who depend on the federal Free And Reduce-Price Meal program as their primary source of nutrition. The food distribution effort from Blessings In A Backpack has been especially critical during the pandemic as many households struggle with rising food prices. The Frederick Steeplechasers have donated over $192,000 in net proceeds from the race since 2016!

Invite your friends to join you at this year's Frederick Summer Solstice 8K. If you get three friends to register using the special referral link included in your confirmation email, you will receive a $5.00 refund as our Thank You. Have more than three friends? We'll refund $5.00 of your registration fee back to your credit card for every three friends who register with your referral link.

You can post your special referral link on social media or email directly to friends and family. The more you post, the more likely you'll get real money back!

 

One-Mile Fun Run: Technical Race Shirt

8K Run: Technical Race Shirt

ASA 8k: Technical Race Shirt