Tackle the Tar will be held on May 17, 2025 at the Bishop Stadium – adjacent to the Rocky Mount Sports Complex, located at 600 Independence Drive, Rocky Mount, NC 27804 (View Map)

While the heats will be timed, to maximize the funding available for student scholarships, Tackle The Tar does not award cash prizes, however, age group prizes will be awarded.

To maximize the funding available for student scholarships, Tackle The Tar does not award cash prizes, however, age group prizes will be awarded.

Spectators are not allowed on the Tackle the Tar race course. However, the festival area is free and open to the public. Cheering on your runner and taking pictures in the festival and spectator viewing areas is highly encouraged. Please, no outside alcohol allowed. Feel free to bring a chair or blanket. No personal tents, coolers or large umbrellas are allowed on the premises. For safety purposes, only registered participants, event staff and approved media will be allowed on the race course.

Tackle the Tar is a rain or shine event. In the case of dangerous weather that threatens the safety of participants or volunteers, the Rotary Club of Rocky Mount reserves the right to postpone or cancel the event. In the event of a cancellation, there will be no refunds. However, participants will be able to run the next Tackle The Tar event at no cost.

Yes, group rates are available if you plan on running with a group and want to be in the same heat. For more information about qualifying and receiving a group rate, contact us.

Yes, we offer an additional $5 discount off the current price. Because of the changing schedule of prices, you must use the discount code that matches the time period in which you are purchasing tickets. These codes/discount links are available on our registration page.

Onsite Registration will be available on Friday night from 6-8 PM at Family Fun Night at Bishop Stadium or Saturday before the race. For Saturday pick up we recommend you come at least an hour before your heat.

Valid ID For First Responders: Vaid miliary ID, Valid EMS, Police & Fire Personnel badge, or proof of employment For Local College Students: Valid Student Id or Proof of Graduation for Alumni or Valid Facility or Staff badge

Race parking is directly next to the Bishop Stadium. Parking is $5. Please do not park across the street at the baseball fields.

After the last heat is complete, estimated time: 10:30 am.

All racers will receive: T-shirt, medal, one free beer (if over 21), and goodie bag if registered by April 30.

All proceeds from this event go directly to the funding of college scholarships for deserving students in the Rocky Mount Area.

Yes, this is beginner to advance friendly. If you are interested in training for the event, please see Trio Fitness Training’s free online programs on our Runner Central page specifically made for our event.

We recommend you opt for quick-drying, synthetic, or moisture-wicking fabrics since you will emerge yourself in water in multiple obstacles. But any athletic clothes and tennis shoes will do.

No, please leave all valuables in your vehicle. We recommend you bring a spectator to hold your belongings while you race. However, there will be a Rotary Tent at the front gate where you can leave your keys.

No, there are no penalties if you choose to skip or cannot complete an obstacle. You are encouraged to attempt only the obstacles you feel comfortable with, and you can go around any obstacle without penalty.

The City of Rocky Mount hosts live music on the field in the Bishop Stadium. There are bouncy houses, vendor booths, food trucks and more. Tackle the Tar packet pickup is from 6-8pm. This event has free admission for the whole family!

Race participates will receive free water during and after the race. There will be vendors in the Bishop Stadium with food and drinks for purchase.

The Bishop Stadium where the race starts and finishes has bathrooms. There are no bathrooms on the course.