

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
US Road Running Races US Road Running races are built for runners and walkers who like friendly, low-pressure race days with just enough competition to keep things exciting. Our events are local, welcoming, and easy to jump into, whether you are chasing a PR, collecting another themed medal, working toward series points, or just getting outside with good people. Most races are small enough to feel personal but organized enough to feel official. You can expect a clear course, helpful race staff, finisher medals, results, and a relaxed community feel. Bring your fast shoes, your steady walking pace, your favorite running buddy, or your best “I signed up for this on purpose” smile. We will be glad to see you at the start line. A quick race-day note: because many US Road Running events are small local races, we normally have one or two staff members at each race. EMS is not stationed on site, and water stations are limited to the finish area at the end of each lap and at the race finish. Please plan for the weather, bring anything you may want between laps, and check in with race staff if you need help. View Race Course, Results, and Race Information on the US Road Running race page.
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.
Explore More Journeys
Can't make it to Hickory? Discover other experiences that match your running style.
Search All Races

