Frequently Asked Questions
(And answers too!)
Is there a minimum age to participate?
There's no minimum age to participate, but all minors under 16 must be accompanied by an adult during the entire run.
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. Moreover, the trail can be expected to include limbs, vegetation, roots and holes. The only exception is the chairs brought by Ainsley's Angels, fitted with special trail tires.
Can I bring my dog?
Sure, we love dogs! You will have to make some compromises, though. The dog must remain on a leash the entire time and obviously won't be allowed in Sheetz (unless it's a service dog). Also, dogs will not be permitted on our shuttle van, so you'll have to arrange your own transportation.
Are there bathroom facilities?
Other than the Sheetz restrooms at the start and finish, it's just you and Mother Nature. Plan accordingly.
What kind of shape do you have to be in?
A 14-mile point-to-point trail run without manned aid stations 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, we'll consider the event complete at 11:30 a.m. That gives runners over 4 hours to complete the course. At that point, the last shuttle will leave, we'll clear out of the Sheetz, and the bike support volunteers will move on with their weekend.
Can I walk the course?
Most will probably walk some of the course. Hiking the entire course is not advised as you'll likely not finish by our 11:30 a.m. cut-off. That means you'll have to arrange your own transportation, you won't have bike support, and you might miss out on your Shwag Bag. This is a run event, so participants are expected to run at least half the course.
Is this a race?
No, we call this event a "Fun Run" because it lacks many aspects found at races including registration fees, timed results, bibs, manned aid stations, winners, awards, competition and pressure. Here, we're just out to enjoy a low-key trail run with like-minded people and raise funds for charity while doing so.
What does this cost?
Nothing! In lieu of registration fees, we instead are collecting donations for our charity partner, Ainsley's Angels of America. During the FREE registration process, each runner is asked to make a donation of at least $25 to support the Ainsley's Angels mission of inclusion.
How do I make a donation?
Please visit the donation site for the Fredericksburg chapter of Ainsley's Angels. Our donation page is powered by and secured by the Crowdrise fundraising platform. If you'd rather donate by cash or check, please see the Ainsley's Angels ambassador (dressed in bright pink) at the event.
Is the number of runners capped?
Yes, the event is limited to 100 runners. Once full, no more registrations will be accepted. If you need to cancel, please email us so we can unregister you and open your spot for someone else. Please note that all runners must pre-register - there is no on-site registration.
Do I need to check in somewhere?
Yes, please step inside the starting line Sheetz by 7:00 a.m. to check-in. Look for the signs in the dining room. It only takes a few seconds. While you're there, enjoy water and bananas. (And maybe visit the restroom one last time.)
How do I get back to my car afterwards?
You have several options including catching our 10-passenger shuttle van at 10:00, 10:30, 11:00 or 11:30 to ride back to the KGMS parking lot. Seating is limited and must be reserved during registration. Of course you can also arrange pickup or work out your own shuttle service with friends. As the shuttle reservations become full, the corresponding options will be removed from the registration form..
Do I need a permit to use the trail?
Not anymore! Thanks to ongoing efforts to incorporate the Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail into the Virginia State Parks inventory, a trail permit is no longer required. The trail is actually managed as a King George County Park, but note that this activity is not sponsored by, associated with, or endorsed by the King George County Board of Supervisors, King George County School Board or their officers, agents and employees.
What's a "Shwag Bag"?
That's what we call the freebies Sheetz generously provides all registered finishers and our volunteers. You'll get a travel mug and a free coffee refill (up until our event ends at 11:30 a.m.). You'll also get a voucher for free Sheetz food and drink (beyond the fruit, Gatorade and water that awaits you at the finish). You must be registered to receive a Shwag Bag.