+ What does it mean to "go cupless?"

"Going cupless" means that we will no longer provide single-use cups or bottles at the aid stations along the course. What we will provide is a reusable, lightweight, easy-to-carry HyrdaPak SpeedCup -- the industry leader in collapsible race cups. Each holds 7 ounces, is BPA- and PVC-free, and is top-rack dishwasher safe.

+ Why go cupless?

Being a cupless event enables us lessen our race footprint by reducing waste and keeping our trails clean and pristine! By ditching disposables, we'll keep over 1,200 single-use cups and bottles out of the King George landfill each year.

+ When will I receive my HydraPak SpeedCup?

If you need one, you will receive a HydraPak SpeedCup when you check in at start line on race day.

+ What happens if I lose or forget my SpeedCup?

Sorry, there will be no extras or disposable cups on course. You could always use your hand as an imperfect cup at aid stations.

+ How do I get a drink on the course?

In addition to the start- and finish-line, the course is equipped with four aid stations--at miles 3.14, 6.2, 10.2 and 12.2. Water will be offered at all five stations. Tailwind (an electrolyte drink) will be offered in addition to water at the start, finish, mile 6.2, and mile 12.2 aid stations. Volunteers will be at each aid station to speedily fill your SpeedCup using pitchers, or you can use the self-service filling stations. To help avoid bottlenecks, please have your SpeedCup in your hand and ready to receive a drink as you approach the aid station. If you don't want a drink, kindly use the marked bypass lane.

+ What about the hot drinks at the campsite aid station (mile 6.2)?

While the SpeedCup can handle hot chocolate and hot cider, your hand cannot so we'll serve those beverage options in biodegradable hot cups made from renewable bamboo. This will keep your SpeedCup clean and your hands unburned while still being environmentally responsible.

+ How will I carry my SpeedCup when I run?

Your SpeedCup is not only light (10g) and compressible but also features a finger loop. You can easily compress the cup to tuck in a pocket or waistband, hook it on with a carabiner, or just keep it looped around your finger.

+ Can I carry my own hydration?

Yes, you may carry your own hydration, whether in a hand-held running bottle, hydration vest or pack, growler, or some other container.

+ Those cups are cool and useful! Can I buy an extra?

Sure, we'll have extras available for purchase for $5 at packet pickup and at the merch table on race day.

+ So you really won't have cups or bottles of water on the course?

For reals.

+ Is this a race?

Yeah, technically, but we really downplay the competitiveness. We want participants to relax, take their time, enjoy the scenery, stop for photos, and hang out at the aid station -- you know, all the things you don't do at most races. We're just out to enjoy a low-key, laid back trail run with like-minded people (while raising money for charities too). That being said, we realize some use this event as a training run and will go all out. You do you! The top male and female finishers will earn great prizes and a cool custom trophy!

+ Is this a charity event?

Yes! We donate 25% of all profits including registrations, sponsorships and grants to a number of local charities. Since Sheetz generously makes this event possible, our primary charity partner is the Sheetz employee-led charity, Sheetz For the Kidz™. For more information, see our Giving Back page.

+ So how does this work? I wish you had a tidy graphic to sum up the whole event and its logistics.

We do! Check out our event schematic which succinctly covers the what, where, when, how of the event.

+ Is there a minimum age to participate?

Yes, 14 years of age.

+ Can I bring a stroller?

No, this event is not suitable for strollers. The trail surface is not conducive as it includes dirt, rocks, pea gravel and sand. In addition, the trail can be expected to include limbs, vegetation, roots and holes. The only exception is the racing chairs brought by Ainsley's Angels, fitted with special trail tires.

+ Can my dog run with me?

Sure, Fido will even his/her own finisher bag with homemade treats! We'll have a dog bowl and treats at each aid station, and the first canine finisher wins the coveted Top Dog trophy and great prize pack! There are a few caveats, however:

• Dogs must be on a leash at all times.
• The owner must control their dog at all times and maintain proper and safe distance with runners, volunteers and other dogs on a narrow course.
• Dogs are NOT allowed on the shuttle buses per KGCS policy, so the owner will need to arrange their own transportation.
• Dogs are not allowed in Sheetz (except for service dogs).

+ Where do I park?

Since 2022, parking has moved to the finish line area! Please park at King George Gateway Shopping Center in Dahlgren -- look for the King George Trail Series parking flag and shuttle buses. (Parking Map) Please do not park at either Sheetz location or O'Reilly Auto Parts!

+ I'm arranging my own transportation. Where do I park?

For the start line, please park across the street at King George Middle School and use the crosswalk to access the start line area. For the finish line area, please park at King George Gateway Shopping Center and use the 0.25-mile connector trail to get and from the finish line. Please do not park at either Sheetz location or O'Reilly Auto Parts!

+ I'm from out-of-town. Where should I stay?

Welcome! For maximum value and convenience, we'd recommend one of five hotels located within a half-mile of the finish line and event parking.

+ What kind of shape do you have to be in?

A 14-mile point-to-point trail run is not something to be taken lightly - it's kind of a big deal.If you don't run regularly or only participate in an occasional road 5k, you might want to train up and catch us next year.

+ Is there a cut-off time?

Yes, the event starts at 8:00 a.m. and concludes at 12:30 p.m. That gives runners over 4 hours to complete the course. At that point, we'll pack up all the things, and the bike support volunteers will move on with their weekend.

+ Can I walk the course?

Walking the entire course is not advised unless you're "rucking" or walking at a brisk pace. Many may walk some of the course but you may not finish before the 12:30 p.m. cutoff if you walk too much or too slowly or linger at the aid stations.

+ What's my time? Do I have to qualify? What's my pace?

Dude, chill! You're obviously confusing this with typical races and all their stress and competitiveness. We don't take ourselves too seriously. In fact, we're so laid back that we don't even track your time -- bring your own sports watch if you want a finish time. Making this an untimed event also helps us keep the costs down.

+ What's the cost?

You get a fun experience and some great finisher swag for as low as $55, depending on when you sign up. The finisher swag alone is worth 30 bucks, including the reusable HydraPak SpeedCup! Even better: a portion of your race entry benefits local children in need thanks to our charity partner, Sheetz for the Kidz.

+ Is the number of runners capped?

Yes, the event is limited to 350 runners. Once full, no more registrations will be accepted.

+ Take my money! Where do I sign up?

Online registration is at RunSignup. You can go there directly or click the Registration link in the menu. No lolly-gagging: we usually sell out within 1 day!

+ Dang, it sold out! Is there a wait list?

Yes, a wait list option will automatically appear in RunSignup when the event sells out. Note, however, that the wait list is ONLY for us to potentially offer a few unclaimed sponsor bibs. See the Transfer Portal FAQ below for details on alternative methods for obtaining a bib.

+ Is there packet pickup before race day?

Yes. Please see our RunSignup race page for locations and times.

+ Do I need to check in somewhere on race day?

Yes, please see a Check-In volunteer at the start line. You can spot them easily as they'll be wearing flourescent vests with flashing green beacons. They will be scanning the barcode on your bib, so please have it accessible. They will also be handing out SpeedCups. The whole process should take just a few seconds.

+ Will there be a bag drop?

Yes! Please check our RunSignup page for details.

+ Is there a list of registered runners?

Yes, click the Find A Participant link in the menu of the RunSignup page.

+ What if it rains or snows?

This is a rain or shine event. However, heavy ice or snow may cause a postponement.

+ Turns out I can't make it - can I transfer or get a refund?

We are unable to offer refunds or deferrals, but you can transfer your bib to another runner and receive a full refund up until race week. You are responsible for finding and coordinating with your replacement to complete the transfer, but we'll share a "Transfer Portal" post to Facebook to help connect people. Participant-to-participant transfers for refund must be initiated in RunSignup -- see RunSignup for transfer instructions and deadlines. Please note: Transfers conducted after the shirt order deadline will not be offered an opportunity to order a shirt during registration. If you'd like to buy one, stop by the info table in the finisher tent.

+ Can I change my shirt options after registering?

If you ordered a shirt during registration and want to change the style or size, you may do so in RunSignup up through the advertised shirt order cutoff date by following these steps:

1. Log in to RunSignup.com using the same account you registered with
2. Click on your user icon in the upper right, select My Registrations
3. Select the Sheetz-to-Sheetz Trail Run
4. Select Manage Registration
5. Select Race Jersey (menu)
6. Change your shirt options and save (Continue, then Confirm Changes)

Note a small fee may be charged if changing to a size 3XL or larger. If you didn't order a shirt and now regret that decision, you may purchase one in the online store accessible via our RunSignup page.

+ What is the Runner Assistance Program, and who is eligible?

The Sheetz-to-Sheetz Runner Assistance Program matches donated race entries (bib only) with qualified, motivated runners, enabling them to run for free. To be eligible for consideration, runners must fall into one of two groups:

1. Anyone who otherwise would not be able to participate due to financial hardship
2. High school runners (age 14+).

+ How do you apply?

To apply, simply fill out a short questionnaire HERE. Race staff will rate applicants on responses to two questions:

1. Why do you wish to run the Sheetz-to-Sheetz Trail Run?
2. How will you prepare to successfully complete the 14-mile race?

Our goal is to identify those most likely to follow-through to successfully cross the finish line on race day.

+ Will applicants need to provide proof of financial hardship or age?

No, applicants are on their honor to truthfully represent their situation on the application form. No financial or age eligibility data is collected.

+ When is the application deadline?

To be considered for the initial selections, applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. EST Tuesday, November 21, 2023. While we may re-open the application form after event registration opens for the general public November 24, such an action is not guaranteed and is dependent upon number of applicants and number of available donated entries.

+ When and how will I know if I have been chosen?

Initial selections will be announced by email no later than 5:00 p.m. EST November 22, 2023. Selected runners must use the reserved entry link in the email to register between November 24 and November 28 or the entry will be forfeited. As supplies are available, additional applicants will be selected and notified in a similar manner and must register within 5 days of email notification. Reserved entries are still valid even if the event has sold out.

+ If selected, what is included?

Recipients of the Runner Assistance Program will receive a unique link for a prepaid registration to the Sheetz-to-Sheetz Trail Run. As a registered runner, all finisher swag, food and drink are included. Race jerseys are not included and are available as an optional $23 add-on for all participants during the registration process.

+ Who donates the entries, and how many spots are available?

Free race entries are made possible by the Sheetz-to-Sheetz Trail Run, King George County, select Platinum- and Gold-level race sponsors, and donations collected from race participants during the registration process. An exact count cannot be determined at this time, but an initial allotment of nine (9) spots will be reserved for this program.

+ Where does it start?

The start line Sheetz is store #573 at 8206 Kings Highway, King George, Virginia.

+ Are there bathroom facilities?

Yes! At the start line, you'll have restrooms inside Sheetz and O'Reilly Auto Parts next door as well as additional porta-potties near the starting corral. We'll also have a porta-potty at the campsite aid station at mile 6.2 and the Pretzel Stop aid station at mile 12.5. At the finish, Sheetz restrooms will be available. If that's not enough, you'll have miles of nature at your disposal, no pun intended.

+ Is the course marked?

There will be ample signs and marking tape at all intersections and turns. The majority of the course is along a rail trail so it's a straight shot. There is one well-marked short detour at mile 12.0 where the trail is routed around the historic Little Ark Baptist Church cemetery. We'll also have event mile marker signs along the course (not to be confused with the DRHT's mile markers).

+ How do we cross Route 3 at the start?

Don't worry - the King George Sheriff's Office will stop traffic at the start to allow us to safely cross the intersection and start our westward journey down Route 3. Not only that, but they'll escort us the entire 1.4 miles until we turn onto the Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail!

+ I see there's a short road segment. Is there traffic control?

Yes! For the 1.5-mile road segment at the beginning (necessary to get from Sheetz to the trailhead), we'll have the King George Sheriff's Office and a professional, certified traffic management team on-site to close off certain lanes and manage traffic.

+ What's the course surface like?

After a short road section, the course follows a rail trail whose surface varies from dirt to gravel to packed stone dust. Depending on the weather, some areas (especially towards the end) may be a little wet. Being a trail, it also features roots, limbs and other tripping hazards. Being a former railroad, there is nearly no elevation change.

+ What's along the course?

The Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail meanders through farmlands, wetlands, woods and neighborhoods in rural King George, Virginia. Eagles, deer and foxes are common sights along the mostly wooded trail. Be sure to look for signs of the historic military railroad including WWII-era signal boxes and concrete whistle stop signs. Also look for impressively tall and wide berms built to carry the railroad high above the wetlands on both sides.

+ Are there water or aid stations?

In addition to water and Tailwind at the start line, there will be four aid stations along the course:

• Mile 3.14 (pi): Pie, water
• Mile 6.2 (campsite): S'mores, Peeps, Rice Krispies Treats, hot cider, hot chocolate, water, Tailwind
• Mile 10.2 (Meadows neighborhood): Fruit snacks, water
• Mile 12.5 (Little Ark Baptist Church): Pretzels, water

+ Do I need a permit to use the trail?

For this event, you are covered by our event permit. But otherwise, yes, you need a FREE permit to use this privately owned trail. It's quick and easy to obtain one here. (Lawyers ask us to remind you that this activity is not sponsored by, associated with, or endorsed by King George County, its agents, or employees.)

+ Where does it end?

The finish line Sheetz is store #259 at 17188 Owens Drive, King George, Virginia.

+ What's the finisher swag?

All registered finishers receive an impressive swag bag courtesy of Sheetz and other sponsors. It will include a stainless steel insulated travel mug, voucher(s) for a free Made-to-Order (MTO) food or drink item, snacks, and a sweat towel! Our other sponsors will throw in some fun freebies as well!

+ Is there an actual finish line?

Yes, you can't miss it! We'll have an archway, an announcher and volunteers handing you your finisher mug (instead of a medal) and a finisher bag full of treasures. The finisher chute will then route you behind Sheetz to the post-race food, finisher tent, photo booth, etc. Please do not block or leave the finisher chute.

+ Are there prizes?

Yes, the first male and female finishers claim a sweet trophy and a prize pack from our sponsors! Note that this is an untimed, laid back event, so we're going strictly by gun time and the race director's failing eyesight, not net time. If you want to compete, we suggest you line up at the front of the first wave. Oh, and the first canine finisher wins a custom Top Dog trophy and prize as well!

+ What's this raffle I hear about?

Glad you asked! Our raffle raises additional money for our charity partner, Sheetz For the Kidz™. All registered participants will get one ticket at packet pickup with opportunities to buy more at $1 each to improve your chances of winning GREAT prizes. Winners will be announced at the finish line starting at 10:30 a.m. You do not have to be present to win.

+ Is there food at the finish?

Absolutely! After crossing the finish line and collecting your swag bag, stop by the finisher tent to enjoy fruit, doughnuts, snacks, and drinks. Fill your new travel mug with free coffee if you'd like. If you're still hungry, step inside the store and redeem your vouchers for Sheetz Made-to-Order food and drink. Or you may opt to save your Sheetz vouchers for later and visit one of the partner restaurants in the adjacent shopping center, a 0.25-mile walk along a well-marked trail.

+ How do I get back to my car or hotel?

If you parked at the King George Gateway Shopping Center or are staying at one of its hotels, there's a convenient and well-marked 0.20-mile trail leading from near the finish line to the parking lot. Bayside Ford will also be providing rides in in their courtesy shuttle. (Parking Map) Just look for the Shuttle flag near the finish line.