Ninja 5K, & 13.1M at Hickory, NC (31)
The Ninja 5K and 13.1M in Hickory, NC offers a unique out-and-back challenge with costume encouragement.
Race Date
Aug 1, 2026
Location
Hickory, NC
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, August 1, 2026
- Location
- Hickory, North Carolina
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 5K
- Course
- Out & Back
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 12
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Ninja 5K and 13.1M at Hickory, NC, presents a unique running experience centered around an out-and-back course design. Runners can expect a straightforward path, with the half marathon completing the out-and-back loop six times and the 5K doing it twice. The race encourages a festive atmosphere, even awarding prizes for the best costumes, adding a playful element to the competition.
This event, first run in 2025, is part of the US Road Running Race Series, offering points towards series standings. With a generous 3-hour and 30-minute time limit, it aims to be accessible to a wide range of participants. All finishers are recognized with a themed medal, celebrating their accomplishment at the conclusion of the race.
Race-provided description
Race Information The race starts at 8:30 AM. Packet pickup starts 30 minutes before the race and ends 10 minutes before the race starts. All runners must register on RunSignup. No on-site registration. Additional Information Parking and restrooms are located at the Trailhead- https://maps.app.goo.gl/tJmT7w8PjTeEZpnXA Registration and starting line are located north of the VFW, across the street from the corner of 16th Ave Pl NW and 12th St Dr NW- https://maps.app.goo.gl/5xTSLJccYk39YjU37 5K Course (0.78M) https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/6233736925 The course is an out-and-back (1.56M) The 5K does the out-and-back two times. Half Marathon Course (1.09M) https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/5975171281 The course is an out-and-back (2.18M). The Half Marathon does the out-and-back six times. Course Time Limit 3 hours and 30 minutes. View Race Information on US Road Running
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, August 1, 2026
Start Time
8:30 AM
Start Location
1581 12th St Dr NW, Hickory, NC, 28601
Course Info
Course Type
Out & Back
Terrain
road
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Course Map
1 other map for this race
Quality Score
1 year running
~12 finishers a year
small race — neutral
0% returning runners
3 timing sources · 3 photos
runners from 4 states
winner 1:52:46
typical high 87°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
69°
Afternoon (High)
87°
Hot conditions — adjust pace expectations, prioritize hydration
0.2"
Precipitation
8 mph
Wind
76%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 12 finishers actually crossed the line across 1 year.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
12
Median time
2:08:38
Latest turnout
12
States
4
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Ninja 5K, & 13.1M at Hickory, NC (31)?
The Ninja 5K, & 13.1M at Hickory, NC (31) is held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, starting at 8:30 AM.
Where does the Ninja 5K, & 13.1M at Hickory, NC (31) take place?
It takes place in Hickory, North Carolina.
What distances does the Ninja 5K, & 13.1M at Hickory, NC (31) offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 5K.
Is the Ninja 5K, & 13.1M at Hickory, NC (31) course flat and good for a PR?
The Ninja 5K, & 13.1M at Hickory, NC (31) is a ultra-flat, out & back course.
How many people run the Ninja 5K, & 13.1M at Hickory, NC (31)?
HalfRuns has finish records for 12 runners who have completed the Ninja 5K, & 13.1M at Hickory, NC (31).
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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