Rock the Heat 10k
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Event overview
The 2026 Rock the Heat 5k & 10k is a trail and park running event held at Rock Creek Regional Park in Rockville, MD on July 11, 2026. The event offers both an on-site option and a virtual race option. Points from the races count toward the year-long 5k, 10k, and Back of the Pack series and toward the Summer Series. The race benefits Medals4Mettle; with each finisher an old race medal will be donated to the charity. Participants receive a finisher medal, a technical (drifit) event shirt, and chip timing.
Course and logistics
Distances:
- 5k
- 10k
The route includes about 1 mile of paved path and about 2 miles of trail with rolling hills. The 5k is one out-and-back; the 10k is two out-and-backs. Water stations:
- 10k: five stations at approximately miles 0.8, 2, 3.1, 3.9, and 5.1 (Gatorade available at some).
- 5k: two stations at approximately miles 0.8 and 2.
Restrooms are available inside the park. Live results are posted online during the event and final results with series points are posted the Monday after the race. Race photos taken by staff are posted on the organizer’s social pages by the Tuesday after the event.
Registration, fees, and awards
Registration fees listed are:
- 5k: $30 until June 30 (then $35)
- 10k: $45 until June 30 (then $50)
T-shirts are guaranteed for runners registered before July 1; extras are available after that on a first-come basis. Race day registration is available; t-shirt sizes cannot be guaranteed for those who register on race day. The event awards the top three men and top three women overall, plus first and second in standard age groups (19 & under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+). Top three overall finishers are not eligible for age-group awards. The Back of the Pack time is listed as 13:00. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
