Tackle The Tar
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Tackle the Tar : event overview
Tackle the Tar is the annual 5K Obstacle Course Race and Family Fun Day hosted by the Rotary Club of Rocky Mount on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the Rocky Mount Sports Complex (600 Independence Dr, Rocky Mount, NC). The course begins at the sports complex and runs through historic Battle Park and the E.B. Grain Company property. The event includes a mud pit and more than 15 obstacles. Proceeds support college scholarships for students in the Rocky Mount area; since 2016 the event has raised and awarded over $510,000. Registered racers receive a T-shirt, medal, one free beer if over 21, and a goodie bag. Packet pickup is available on the Friday and Saturday of race week.
Format, ages and registration
- 5K obstacle course race (age 14 and up to enter)
- 1-mile Kid's Obstacle Race (ages 8-13 only)
Age and participation rules: participants must be at least 14 to run the 5K; ages 8-13 may run only the 1-mile kids race; ages 14-15 must run with a parent or guardian and are excluded from competitive heats; ages 16-17 may run in fun run heats only with a parental consent form; participants 18+ must complete a participation waiver. All heats will be timed except the 1-mile kids run. Online registration closes Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 12:00 noon. Special discounts are available for first responders, students, and veterans. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
