War Eagle Run Fest

FRESHJUNKIE Racing, in conjunction with Auburn-Opelika Tourism and Auburn University are proud to present the 5th Annual War Eagle Run Fest.  Athletes and fans can choose from either a half marathon (13.1 miles) or 5k (3.1 miles) to test their mettle while touring the campus like no other Auburn fan. There will also be a 1 mile run for the Little Tigers presented by Allen Turner Automotive.  After gathering your commemorative medal, join us outside the stadium for the post-race tailgate and enjoy the music and food that Auburn fans have come to love. Whether you are staff, student, alumni or just a fan, join us and be a part of the War Eagle Run Fest. 

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR FUTURE RACE DATES

The War Eagle Run Fest is traditionally held in February each year, but depends largely on Auburn University's spring sports and events calendar.  Below are the planned dates for the next few years, but can fluctuate 1-2 weeks in either direction:

• FEBRUARY 22, 2026
• FEBRUARY 21, 2027
• FEBRUARY 27, 2028

We hope to see you at many more races in the future!  For a list of all FRESHJUNKIE Racing events, please follow the link below.

FRESHJUNKIE RACING CALENDAR

START TIME: 7:30am

START LOCATION: Heisman Drive between Jordan-Hare Stadium and Campus Green

FINISH LOCATION: 50 Yard Line of Jordan-Hare Stadium

CLICK HERE FOR AN ONLINE MAP OF THE 5K

In addition to finisher medals awarded for each finisher in each race, there will be specific overall, masters, grand masters, great grand masters, and age group awards for all races except the War Eagle Kids Mile.  No awards are given for the War Eagle Kids Mile.  Overall and Age Group award winners will each receive a custom award medal engraved with the award description: 1st Place Male, Age Group 40-44 as an example.  Overall award winners will ALSO receive a custom, laser-engraved wooden award to commemorate their finish.

OVERALL AWARDS

The top finishers in the Half Marathon & 5K will receive an overall award in the following categories:

• Overall Male and Female (1st, 2nd, and 3rd) - scored using GUN TIME
• Masters (40+) male and female (1st Only) - scored using GUN TIME
• Grand Masters (50+) male and female (1st Only) - scored using CHIP TIME
• Great Grand Masters (60+) male and female (1st Only) - scored using CHIP TIME

HALF MARATHON AGE GROUP CATEGORIES

1st, 2nd, and 3rd place males and females in each of the following categories will receive an age group award:

16-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80-84, 85+*

Children under the age of 16 can run in the half marathon with permission from their guardians or parents, but we do not issue Awards to Age Groups under the age of 16 for this race distance.

5K AGE GROUP CATEGORIES

1st and 2nd place males and females in each of the following categories will receive an age group award:

10 & Under, 11-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80-84, 85+*

*If there are runners over the age of 89, an additional age group category will be created for the appropriate 5 year window.

All awards must be picked up at the event.  When registering, you can elect to have your results sent via text message or email to your phone.  These are sent within minutes of you finishing the race.  Results can also be checked at our TIMING AND RESULTS tent near the finish line.  5K Awards can be claimed AFTER 8:30am from the AWARDS Tent.  HALF Marathon Awards can be claimed AFTER 9:30am from the AWARDS Tent.  The Award ceremony will take place at 10:00am and will announce OVERALL winners only.  Awards will not be shipped post-race.

At FRESHJUNKIE Racing (FJR) events, participants should conduct themselves in a courteous manner, respecting all fellow participants, volunteers, event staff, and members of the community.  Participants are expected to follow the Rules of Competition outlined below. Unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated. Proper race etiquette is required at all times, including being aware of your surroundings and of announcements and instructions from event officials.

START

Please give yourself enough time to pick up your bib number and enter your corral. Only enter the corral you are assigned to or a slower one, and respect the event staff. Please be respectfully quiet during pre-race announcements and the playing of the National Anthem prior to the start.

HEADPHONES

The use of headphones is strongly discouraged. If you must wear headphones, be sure that you can hear all announcements and be extra-aware of your surroundings, including other participants and any vehicle traffic.

MOBILE DEVICES

The use of mobile devices for photography or social updates during the event is strongly discouraged, as it decreases your awareness of other participants around you. If you must use a mobile device, be sure that you can hear all announcements and be extra-aware of your surroundings, including other participants and any vehicle traffic.

URINATION

In accordance with State and City rules and laws, only use the toilet facilities provided by the event and/or open to the public. Please be considerate in portable-toilet lines; don’t cut in line or into another line. Never urinate in the corrals, along the course, at the post-finish walk-off, or in the post-race venue. You risk disqualification and a police summons if caught.

RUNNING COURTESY

While participating in the event, don’t run in groups of three or more abreast; wide groups become barriers to other runners. Don’t stop abruptly to drink at an aid station or to tie your shoelaces. Watch where you spit and blow your nose to avoid hitting other participants. If someone running behind you says, “On your left,” move to your right to let the runner pass. If someone says, “On your right,” move to your left.

TRASH

Our running events are conducted in public places—either city or state parks or streets. Please deposit any trash in the provided receptacles, including at aid stations. Be careful when discarding cups at aid stations so as to avoid hitting other participants.

SAFETY

If you encounter a runner in distress, offer assistance and/or report the situation to the nearest aid station. If it is a life and death emergency, call 9-1-1 if possible.

PACKET PICKUP, REGISTRATION & RETAIL SHOP AT JORDAN-HARE STADIUM

SPONSORED BY COUNTRY Financial

The War Eagle Run Fest will be hosting a Packet Pickup, Late Registration, and Retail Shop for all runners.  Please plan to come claim your packet BEFORE race day as this will make your morning much easier.  Information about having a friend or family member pick up your packet for you can be found below.

Pre-Race Packet Pickup 

Saturday, February 22, 2025 • 10am–5pm East Gates of Jordan-Hare Stadium, located on Heisman Drive, Auburn, AL 36849

Race Day Packet Pickup

Sunday, February 23, 2025 • 5:30am–6:30am (Half Marathon & 5K ONLY) - East Gates of Jordan-Hare Stadium, located on Heisman Drive, Auburn, AL 36849
Sunday, February 23, 2025 • 5:30am–9:30am (Kids Mile ONLY) - East Gates of Jordan-Hare Stadium, located on Heisman Drive, Auburn, AL 36849

*While we are offering race day packet pickup, we STRONGLY encourage you to have your packet picked up BEFORE race day.  The races will start on time regardless of lines still at Packet Pickup.

Parking

There is plenty of parking for Packet Pickup and Race Day near Jordan-Hare Stadium.  

Access Auburn Guests & Visitors Parking Guide Here

PACKET PICKUP & REGISTRATION

What to Bring

Packet Pickup is the only place you can pick up your registration packet.  Registered participants can confirm registration on this website by clicking on the "Participant Tracking" menu option. All registered participants will get an email Friday morning with their registration QR code.  Participants must present a valid government-issued ID or a copy of your registration confirmation. Digital copies (your phone screen) are allowed at packet pickup to receive your packet.

Proxy Pickup

Someone other than the registered participant can pick up a packet as long as the friend or family member presents a copy of the participant’s registration confirmation, and/or the participant’s photo ID. Digital copies (your phone screen) are allowed. There are NO exceptions to this requirement.  

Late Registration

Late registration is available at Packet Pickup and Race Day unless the race(s) sells out. We will post a notice regarding closed races on our website and Facebook page. Participants can register or change races in the Race Registration area.  

Registration Confirmation

Registered Participants should receive a confirmation email during the registration process. While the only requirement is that you present your government-issued photo ID, we also recommend either printing your confirmation and bringing it to packet pickup, or having a copy electronically available on your mobile device. 

Mail My Bib Swag Pickup

If you paid to have your bib mailed to you, you will NOT need to come to Packet Pickup before the race starts. We will have your shirt and any other SWAG items available for you to collect AFTER you finish the race.  On race day, once you have finished, you can collect your SWAG items from the "Mail My Bib Swag Pickup" tent.  You are welcome to attend a pre-race Packet Pickup as well, but it is not necessary.

FRESHJUNKIE Racing (FJR) and the War Eagle Run Fest have implemented a color-coded Event Alert System (EAS) for our races that will communicate the status of course conditions on race day. The levels range from Low (green) to Moderate (yellow) to High (red) to Extreme (black) based on the weather and other course conditions. On race day, the current EAS status will be communicated via color-coded flags at the start and finish areas and along the course at each medical station.  Decisions to delay, stop or cancel an event are NOT made on weather forecasts, which have been known to be wrong.  Decisions are made on race day based on the actual weather experienced.  Our goal is to hold a safe event and we wait as long as we can before making decisions that we cannot.  Our decision criteria is outlined below.  We will run in the rain as long as no lightning or thunder is present.

All participants should familiarize themselves with the EAS prior to the race, remain alert for directions from race officials, and take precautions to prepare properly for varying weather or course conditions on race day.

Participants will receive notifications before and during races using on-site announcements, social media, text and email notifications.  Additionally, on-course notifications will occur at aid stations with the use of color-coded flags and announcements from race staff and law enforcement personnel.  Utilization of transport vehicles and/or designated EAS physical locations along the course route may be activated for “HIGH” and “EXTREME” alert levels.

On-Course Medical Volunteers and additional runner support (fluids, etc.) will be directed to their designated physical locations to provide on-site care in the facility if the race is stopped.  Additional support will be deployed using EMS and medical support from the finish medical area as deemed appropriate.

LIGHTNING/SEVERE WEATHER SAFETY GUIDELINES

This protocol is designed to provide information to participants, cities and towns along the course regarding FJR policies and procedures in the event of a weather hazard that includes severe weather conditions such as lightning and/or thunder.  To determine the proximity of lightning, FJR utilizes the National Severe Storm Laboratory (NSSL) flash-to-bang method in addition to weather monitoring services.

To use the flash-to-bang method, count the seconds from the time lightning is first sighted to when the clap of thunder is heard.  Divide this number by five to obtain the distance in miles from where the lightning occurred. (Example:  30 second count between flash and hearing bang… storm is 6 miles away)

Lightning awareness increases with the first visual sighting of a flash or clap of thunder regardless of how far away the storm may seem.  How fast the storm is moving, relative to the time it would take to find safe shelter for runners, staff, and spectators is considered.  Participants and spectators should remember the existence of blue sky and the absence of rain are not protection from lightning.

As a standard, by the time FJR staff monitors a flash-to-bang count of 60 seconds, event activities will begin to be paused or cancelled, and instructions to all individuals to leave the site and reach a safe location will be given.  Resumption of activity will only be considered by waiting 30 minutes or longer after the last flash of lightning or sound of thunder is heard.  Depending on the timing and available roadway access, the event may not resume and be cancelled.  NOTE: refunds are not given in the event of cancellation due to weather, public emergency, or Acts of God.

COMMUNICATION

FRESHJUNKIE Racing has an established protocol for notifying participants should weather conditions cause a delay or stoppage in the race:

1. In person announcements over event speakers, PA systems, and/or police units are made instructing those present of any delay, stoppage or cancellation as well as instructions on where to move for safety
2. Notice of delay, stoppage or cancellation is immediately posted to our Social Media page(s)
3. Notice of delay, stoppage or cancellation is sent via text message to all participants who elected to receive text alerts during registration
4. Notice of delay, stoppage or cancellation is emailed to all registered participants.  If a participant has 'unsubscribed' to our emails, they may not receive this form of communication

Our top priority is runner safety and decisions are made with that in mind, but we will do everything we can to hold the event as scheduled.  This means we DO NOT alter or cancel event plans based on weather forecasts before race day.

GENERAL INFORMATION

DO YOU LIMIT THE NUMBER OF RUNNERS IN EACH RACE?
The Half Marathon, 5K & War Eagle Kids Mile will be capped as necessary.

WILL YOU HAVE PACERS?
There are no pacers for the War Eagle Run Fest events.  Runners will be assigned to start corrals based on the expected finish times they provide.  The runners around you should be running a similar pace to you.

CAN I HAVE CELL PHONES, FRIENDS, STROLLERS, DOGS ON THE COURSE?
We encourage you to invite friends and family to cheer you on along the course, but they are only allowed to run with you if they are registered runners. Per USA Track & Field rules, elements that could impede the safety of runners, such as bikes, skates, skateboards, strollers and pets on the course, are not allowed. The safety of our runners is our number one priority. By signing or clicking ’I Accept’ on any War Eagle Run Fest registration race waiver, you are agreeing to abide by the Rules of Competition.

CAN I WEAR HEADPHONES?
Participants will be able to use listening devices during the running of the Half Marathon, 5K & War Eagle Kids Mile, but they do so at their own risk. Runner safety is, and will continue to be, the priority for all of our events. To ensure a safe and enjoyable race for everyone, we ask that you please be mindful of the other participants and race personnel.

You MUST be aware of your surroundings at all times and this includes being able to hear any verbal warnings/instructions from police/course officials or the sound of any vehicles and other participants on the course. The abuse of portable headphone devices can result in disqualification. Abuse refers to being so distracted that you become a hazard to yourself, your fellow participants, spectators, course marshals, finish line officials, medical personnel, other race officials, police personnel or vehicle traffic.

Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. We must constantly consider the safety of all our participants, volunteers and spectators and review this rule as well as others in order to ensure the continued safety of our participants.

WHAT IF I LOSE SOMETHING THE DAY OF THE RACE?
Lost & Found is located near the awards area.  After the event, please contact info@wareaglerunfest.com to see if items were turned in.  Clothing items left in the start areas and along the course are immediately donated to charity and are not kept in Lost & Found.

REGISTRATION

CAN I DEFER MY ENTRY TO NEXT YEAR?
Yes, you may defer your entry to the next event year for a fee until 10 days prior to race weekend.  After that date deferrals are not allowed.  You will find the option to defer your entry by going to your RunSignUp account: Profile -> My Registered Races -> Manage Registration -> Defer Registration.

CAN I GIVE/SELL MY NUMBER TO ANOTHER RUNNER?

Entries are transferable, but must be done through our registration site, RunSignUp.  Transfers are allowed until 10 days prior to the event and do not incur any fees from us.   Completing the transfer through our system is MANDATORY.  This is for the safety of the runner as well as necessary to satisfy insurance requirements of the event. If a runner collapses or is otherwise injured during the race and is running as someone else, we would not have emergency information available for them. This could result in further injury.  Instructions on how to transfer to another runner can be found HERE.

CAN I TRANSFER MY ENTRY TO ANOTHER FRESHJUNKIE RACING EVENT?

You can transfer your race entry to another race owned by FRESHJUNKIE Racing as long as registration for the desired race is open and you are more than 10 days out from the race you are currently registered for.  A list of FRESHJUNKIE Racing events and calendar can be found here.   Completing these transfers may incur costs depending on what event(s) your are transferring to and from.   You can find instructions on how to complete a transfer to another FRESHJUNKIE Racing owned event by clicking HERE.

CAN I SWITCH RACES?

Yes, you may switch to any race.  Fees may apply for any race distance change.  Race bibs are assigned according to what race you are registered for.  If you do not officially change your registered distance, your time scoring will not be accurate and you may not receive the appropriate finisher medal.  

The Transfer Event option can be found by logging on to RunSignUp, navigating to Profile > Upcoming Events > Manage Registration > Transfer Event. The Transfer Event option can be either located on the top of the page or on the left of the page. 

WHY HAVEN’T I RECEIVED AN EMAIL CONFIRMATION?

Note: If you did not receive your confirmation make sure to check the spam folder in your email client.  You will always be able to resend the registration confirmation for any registrations associated with your Profile (including any sub-accounts of yours) by following these steps:

1. Sign In to RunSignUp
2. Go to your Profile
3. See your events under Upcoming Events
4. Click Resend Confirmation next to the registration that you would like to resend the confirmation email
5. Check the email listed in your Profile for your registration confirmation

HOW CAN I SEE IF I’M REGISTERED?

Registration confirmation is available online. You may confirm a registration by using the Find A Participant menu option on this page.

WHERE DOES MY REGISTRATION FEE GO?
Your registration fee helps to pay for the necessary permits, venue rentals, equipment, vehicles, infrastructure, staffing, insurance, police, awards, SWAG, supplies, bibs, medals, shirts, and chip timing to produce all race-related events.  Portions of every registration fee are directed to the Run Gulf Coast Fund and the Auburn Student Fund.  

PACKET PICKUP

CLICK HERE for Packet Pickup Information.

GEAR CHECK

IS THERE A PLACE TO DROP BAGS AT THE START LINE?
Yes.  We will have a “morning clothes” drop point near the Packet Pickup area race morning.  Please make sure your gear is secured in a bag and marked CLEARLY with your bib number.  We will get these bags back to the stadium to be claimed after the event.

WHAT HAPPENS TO MY BAG IF I FORGET TO CLAIM IT AFTER THE RACE?

Gear Check closes at 11:30am on race day and all bags must be picked up before that time. The War Eagle Run Fest is not responsible for gear bags not picked up by 11:30am, however remaining bags will be brought to our office.  Please contact us at info@wareaglerunfest.com to claim your bag.  After one week, anything remaining is discarded or donated to charity.

PARKING

WHERE SHOULD I PARK ON RACE DAY?

There is plenty of parking for Packet Pickup and Race Day near Jordan-Hare Stadium.  Specific War Eagle Run Fest Parking guidance will be published in the Athlete Guide available race week.

Access Auburn Guests & Visitors Parking Guide Here

START & FINISH

WHERE DOES THE RACE START AND FINISH?
For 2025, all races will start outside of Jordan-Hare Stadium and finish at the 50-yard line of Jordan-Hare Stadium.  Detailed maps are posted online and emailed to all registered runners prior to the event.

WILL THERE BE CORRALS?
Runners will be corralled according to expected finish times with the fastest runners in the front and walkers in the back.  The Half Marathon will start at 7:00am in a wave start fashion and the 5K will start at 7:30am in a wave start fashion.  150-200 runners will be allowed to start approximately every 30 seconds.  Corral assignments will be listed in your race week information email.

WHERE CAN I MEET MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS AFTER THE RACE?
The easiest way to find your family and friends after the race is to have a plan beforehand.  Picking a spot outside the stadium is a good option.

COURSE AND RULES OF THE ROAD

IS THERE A TIME LIMIT FOR THE RACES?
City permits limit the race time available to participants. The Half Marathon course will be closed at an 18:20 minute-per-mile pace. The 5K course will be closed at a 29:00 minute-per-mile pace.  No race services including medical, aid stations or traffic control are available beyond this pace.
In order to ensure safety, a Sweep Vehicle follows the race route to pick up participants who are unable to maintain this pace on a consistent basis. Participants are required to board the Sweep Van when so instructed by Race Officials. Course Marshals are instructed to retrieve bibs of all participants who refuse to board the van when instructed to do so.

WHY IS THERE A TIME LIMIT?
In order to comply with city permits, streets crossing the route must be reopened to vehicular traffic on a set schedule.

WHAT HAPPENS IF MY PACE IS SLOWER THAN THE ALLOTTED TIME?
If you are caught by the Sweep Vehicle traveling at the 18:20 or 29:00 minute-per-mile pace, you MUST board the Sweep Van accompanying this vehicle for transport to the finish area. For your safety, the Auburn Police Department does not allow runners to continue in the streets once the course has been re-opened to traffic. Keep in mind that race services, including water stations and medical aid, will be discontinued once the Sweep Vehicle comes through. 

WHAT IS NOT ALLOWED ON THE COURSE?
For the safety of our runners the following is not allowed: going backward, runners not wearing a race number, animals, bicycles, roller skates, roller blades, hand-crank chairs, wheeled vehicles and push-rim wheelchairs.
Receiving outside assistance of any kind is not allowed. Outside assistance consists of, but is not limited to: receiving fluids, gels, food or any personal items from someone not serving in an official race capacity; receiving pacing assistance from any person that is not a registered participant of the race.
Abusive behavior or language directed toward any other participant, volunteer, police officer, or staff member is also not allowed.
Any of these rules infractions can result in a time penalty or race disqualification. The discretion and final ruling resides with the Race Director.

IS THERE ENERGY GEL AVAILABLE ON THE COURSE?
Energy gels are provided for the Half Marathon race approximately every 4 miles.  Water and Sports Drink are provided at water stations for the Half Marathon and 5K approximately every 1.25 miles.   There are no water stations for the War Eagle Kids Mile.

WILL SPORTS BEVERAGE BE ON THE COURSE?
Water and Sports Drink are provided at water stations for the Half Marathon and 5K approximately every 1.25 miles.   There are no water stations for the War Eagle Kids Mile.

MAKE PLANS TO PARTY ON THE FIELD 

The War Eagle Run Fest wants you to experience the view from the field! After you grab your medal head to the sidelines to enjoy your post-race tailgate in style. Running Saturday and Sunday? Grab our 2 day Field Pass Experience! 

One Day Field Pass Includes:

• A Tour of the Auburn Football Locker Room
• Custom Engraved Finishers Medal
• Private Post Race Restrooms
• Sideline Seating and Games
• Post Race Food Served from the Sideline
• $10 Credit towards Retail Store

Two Day Field Pass Includes:

• A Tour of the Auburn Football Locker Rooms
• Custom Engraved Finishers Medal
• Private Post Race Restrooms
• Sideline Seating and Games
• Post Race Food Served from the Sideline
• $10 Credit Towards Retail Store
• War Eagle Run Fest Wine Glass
• Buy and Win- Free Gift Basket Entry!

$55 for One Day (Saturday OR Sunday) Field Pass

$80 for Two Day Field Pass

On the Field ticket price DOES NOT include race registration fees.  

Multiple tickets may be purchased for family and friends who wish to enjoy the post-race amenities.

Purchase tickets for children 12 and under at the event for $15 (with the purchase of one adult ticket).

Half Map

START TIME: 7:00am

START LOCATION: Heisman Drive between Jordan-Hare Stadium and Campus Green

FINISH LOCATION: 50 Yard Line of Jordan-Hare Stadium

CLICK HERE FOR THE ONLINE MAP

You don't have to be in a hurry to leave after you cross the finish line.  Right outside the stadium we will be hosting our Post Race Tailgate Party sponsored by Love 2 Run. Be sure to give yourself time to enjoy the live music from Lucky Town, hot food choices and ice-cold drinks.  The Tailgate Party kicks off at 8:00am and concludes at 11:30am.

The Love 2 Run Post Race Party is open to the public, but the food is reserved for runners who will have tickets attached to their race bibs.  The Student Center will also be open for friends and family who would like to purchase some snacks.

The 2025 War Eagle Run Fest Official Athlete Guide presented by Love 2 Run may be viewed for reference here: https://online.fliphtml5.com/kubet/yxsx/

GROUP TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS

We have partnered with several different transportation sponsors to give your group options:

GOGO Charters provides convenient group transportation for the War Eagle Run Fest. With a Montgomery charter bus rental, groups can travel comfortably to Auburn-Opelika, enjoying spacious seating, climate control, and ample storage for gear.

National Charter Bus offers seamless travel options for the War Eagle Run Fest. A bus rental from Montgomery ensures an efficient and stress-free ride to Auburn-Opelika, ideal for runners, teams, and supporters.

Montgomery Charter Bus Company specializes in reliable transportation for events like the War Eagle Run Fest. Their buses provide a smooth and comfortable ride from Montgomery to Auburn-Opelika, with space for runners, gear, and fans alike.

The War Eagle Run Fest is produced by FRESHJUNKIE Racing (FJR).  FRESHJUNKIE Racing events are organized and directed under USA Track & Field (“USATF”) rules and regulations. Entrants must also comply with FRESHJUNKIE Racing rules and regulations.

SAFETY

Event Officials: All participants must follow the instructions of event officials (FJR staff and volunteers). For participants’ safety, no skates, skateboards, bicycles, hand crank cycles, push rim chairs or animals are permitted. Costumes covering the face, or any non-formfitting bulky outfits extending beyond the perimeter of the body, are not permitted.
FRESHJUNKIE Racing reserves the right to change the details of the event, including delaying, canceling, or suspending the race due to inclement weather or other potential safety risks. Participants must retire at once from the race if ordered to do so by event officials, medical staff, or any governmental authority, including firefighters and police officers.

Sportsmanship: Any participant who conducts himself or herself in an unsportsmanlike manner, or who is offensive in action or language to event officials, other participants, volunteers, or spectators may be disqualified. Protests concerning the conduct of participants will be accepted for up to 24 hours after the posting of results by contacting an event official or sending an email to our communications team.

PARTICIPANT ENTRY AND RACE BIB

Application: All participants must provide accurate information, including age, gender, and emergency contact information, when filling out the event application. A participant may not change or add a team affiliation after an event has started.

Race Bib: Your official participant bib (running number) must be fully visible at all times and worn on the front of your torso. The timing device is attached to the back of your running number; in order to ensure an accurate time, please do not fold or wrinkle the bib or cover it with a jacket, runner belt, water bottle, or any other item. Participants who run the race without their bib properly attached and displayed risk not having their finish time and split times recorded, and not being listed in the results. Runners without race bibs may be stopped and prohibited to enter the finishing chute. If your bib is lost on the course, please report it to an event official after the race.

Transfers Permitted: Race registrations are now transferable to other participants and your race registration can now be transferred to other FJR events.  There are restrictions, potential fees, and timing requirements related to these options.  Any and all transfers MUST be completed using our RunSignUp registration site.  Instructions can be found in our FAQs.  Recording official transfers is important and mandatory as it ensures race officials have accurate emergency contact information and correct insurance waivers for all participants in the event.  A participant who does not wear his or her assigned race bib/tag, or who is found to have transferred, bought, or sold entry without completing the official, required process in RunSignUp will be disqualified and suspended from subsequent FJR events.

No Refunds: Entry fees are non-refundable. Participants may defer entry to the following event year within a specified time frame for a fee. Participants may change race distances for the current event year within a specified time frame at either no charge, or for a fee depending on the time frame and what distances the participant is moving between.

THE START

Start Corrals: Participants are responsible for arriving at the start corrals and entering at the designated corral entry points before the corral closing times. Any participant who climbs over a barricade or otherwise enters improperly may be disqualified. For participant safety, once a corral is closed for entry, late-arriving participants must report to the last corral. Please follow the instructions of event officials when entering corrals.

Race Start: The race will be started by an air horn or cannon unless otherwise noted. All participants must be behind the starting line at the start of the race and must follow the instructions of the race starter.

TIMING

Official Times: Your official (chip time) finish time is recorded by the timing system from when you cross the starting line to when you cross the finish line. Results are sorted by chip time and this determines the order of finish and award winners—except the Overall and Master's category awards, which are awarded based on gun time.  Gun time starts when the race officially starts (gun shot) and ends when you cross the finish line. Gun time and chip time are both shown in your results.  Start timing mats will be removed after the start of the race based on what the size of the field warrants. After the start has closed, no runners will be allowed to start the race. If a runner chooses to start, they must forfeit their bib and will not be considered an active participant in the event.

THE COURSE

Course Marking: FJR events (except for kids’ races) are conducted on USATF-certified courses. Participants must stay within course boundaries, as designated by barriers, traffic cones, delineation, and/or other markings, at all times; must recognize and understand event signage and symbols relating to the course, directions, and facilities; and must follow the instructions of course marshals. Failure to do so may result in disqualification.

Course Monitoring: If you have not completed the entire course, do not cross the finish line. Participants with missing or irregular split times at official timing checkpoints will be reviewed and may be disqualified. If you must leave the course, rejoin it only at the point at which you exited. No participant, after leaving the course, will be allowed to rejoin the race either for the purpose of gaining a place or to pace or assist another competitor.

Assistance: Unofficial pacers or other unregistered participants are not permitted. A participant who receives outside assistance during an event from anyone other than official medical personnel or designated water stations may be disqualified.

Bandits: No individual who is not officially registered may join the event or accompany any participant in the event. Any person without an official bib will be directed to leave the course immediately.  Any registered participant receiving assistance or pacing from a bandit may be disqualified.

THE FINISH

Time Limit: In the interest of safety, and to allow streets to reopen as scheduled, participants should be prepared to adhere to the published pace standards and course cutoff times.  Those participants who are not able to maintain the required pace should be aware that fluid stations and other course amenities may not be available.  Participants behind the required pace in races staged on city streets will be asked to board a follow vehicle, be leap-frogged ahead on the course, or moved to the sidewalks and forfeit their race bib. Late participants may be able to cross the finish line, but they are not guaranteed to be timed and recorded as official finishers.

PROHIBITED ITEMS

The following items are prohibited from all FJR events and race venues:

A weapon of any kind, including firearms, knives, Mace, et cetera
Any dangerous item or “dual-use” item that could be considered dangerous, including hammers, saws, sharp objects, et cetera
Flammable liquids, fuels, fireworks, toxic chemicals, and explosives
Unmanned aerial devices, drones, survey balloons, photography mini-copters, and any flying device with an on/off switch

There are so many reasons to love and visit the Auburn-Opelika area.

It's a family that could easily become yours. It's a ball in a cup, one under if you're very lucky or very good. Eagles live here. And tigers too. It's a spirit that is not afraid. We take our football seriously but know that no one can play golf without a sense of humor, and people all around the world know we have the best of both.

Auburn-Opelika is the proud home of Auburn University, Alabama's biggest, and the Robert Trent Jones Trail, the world’s finest. It's the coolest college town in the South, according to us, and one of the top 10 cities in the US for small businesses, according to Forbes. Centrally located near Atlanta, Birmingham and Montgomery, Auburn-Opelika is easy to get to and easy to love.

Auburn-Opelika is modern hospitality. Here, you'll find a boutique town that's budget-friendly, a backyard full of Alabama pines, trails, and waterways to explore, year-round gentle seasons, legendary restaurants, a hub for engineering, a vibrant and youthful community, and venues that are extensions of our forward-thinking mentality and rooted traditions.  Auburn-Opelika is uniquely Southern.

Want to take in all that Auburn-Opelika has to offer for the perfect race weekend? Check out the sixth issue of RACECATION magazine. Packed full of great places to eat, stay, and explore around the coolest college town in the South. And his hip older sister.

Official Hospitality Partner

Auburn Hospitality is our official hospitality partner for the War Eagle Run Fest.  If you are looking for a great place to call home for race weekend, the Hampton Inn - Auburn is conveniently located on College Street just south of the Auburn campus and less than 10 minutes from Jordan-Hare Stadium. 

CLICK HERE TO BOOK - HAMPTON INN AUBURN

ADDITIONAL RACE WEEKEND HOTEL OPTIONS

Our friends at Visit Auburn-Opelika have procured an amazing list of area hotels offering great deals for race weekend. "Specials" indicate the hotels offering reduced rates to our participants on race weekend.  "Live Rates" indicate the hotel's current room rate. Check them all out and be sure to book soon before these deals fly out! 

WAR EAGLE RUN FEST '25 - HOTELS | PLAYEASY

Transportation Partners

CharterUP is another partner and provider of group transportation for all of your race day needs. From small sprinter vans to 55 passenger buses and more, CharterUP is your go-to source for charter bus rentals in Montgomery and beyond. For groups traveling from farther out of town, CharterUP also provides bus transportation in Birmingham and other major cities across the southeast. Get to the race safely with your group by securing your group transportation option online today!

Get the whole family active at the War Eagle Run Fest and have your kids join us for the War Eagle Kids Mile presented by Allen Turner Toyota of Auburn. Our mission is to instill running as a part of a healthy lifestyle in our kids at an early age. With your help, we can add healthy, happy and active to our unique culture. Plus, they get to run on the field too!!

WAR EAGLE KIDS MILE

DATE: February 15, 2026

START TIME: 10:00am

START LOCATION: Heisman Drive between Jordan-Hare Stadium and Campus Green

FINISH LOCATION: 50 Yard Line in Jordan-Hare Stadium

CLICK HERE FOR AN ONLINE KIDS MILE MAP

FAST FACTS

What is included with a War Eagle Kids Mile registration?  

*ATHLETE bib with electronic timing chip

*PARENT bib to be worn by the parent/guardian responsible for checking the child out after the race or running with the child

*Event T-shirt (youth sizing available)

*Finisher Medal at the finish line

*Post-Race Party food and beverage tickets 

Is there an age limit?  The War Eagle Kids Mile presented by Allen Turner Toyota of Auburn is for children 12 years old and under.  Kids 12+ should register for the 5K.  (Both distances are friendly to walking and race staff attend a "half-mile" turnaround on the War Eagle Kids Mile to let the little kids get to the finish line quicker if they like.)

Can parents run with their children?  Yes, but we encourage you to let them run on their own. The course is closely monitored and secured by race officials and local police.  

Finish Line & Kid Checkout:  Only race personnel and kids participating in the race will be allowed in the finish chute and checkout areas. Parents can enter Jordan-Hare Stadium from the East Gates after you watch the kids start the race.  Once you see your child in the finish chute, you can show your PARENT bib to the attendant to claim your child. If you have multiple children, you will need to show your PARENT bib for each child in order for them to be released. If a parent runs with their child, please WEAR the PARENT bib. 

If you do not have the PARENT bib that matches the CHILD bib, the attendant will look to verify the information on the back of the bib with your photo ID. If you don't have a photo ID or did not complete the information on the back of the bib, you will be directed to one of our police partners to claim your child. Please wear your PARENT bib and complete the information on the back of the ATHLETE bib to avoid any inconvenience on race day.