Take the Challenge

2026 Double Down Challenge (DDC)

Embark on the Double Down Challenge (DDC) adventure, beginning with the 4 Miler at 7:15 AM. Complete the 4 Miler, and then head back to the start line to begin the Tar Heel 10 Miler! 

PLEASE READ: Participants will need to begin the Tar Heel 10 Miler portion of the Double Down Challenge by 8:00 AM. Double Down participants will need to maintain a 10:35 minute mile pace to return to the start line by 8:00 AM. The 10 mile segment of the challenge must be completed by 10:35 AM.

  • Note there is a .25 mile run from the 4 mile finish line to the 10 mile start line. You must complete the 4.25 miles by 8:00am (10:35 min/mile pace)
  • A pacer will be available for DDC runners during the 4-mile portion as a general pacing guide. While staying ahead of the pacer is intended to help runners remain on track for the cutoff, pacing may vary and is not guaranteed.
 

Best of luck to all runners who will get after the Double Down Challenge! 

Race day timeline

Race day timeline is subject to change. Participants will be notified of any changes via email.

6:00 AM: Saturday, April 18

Recommended Arrival Time

Runners for all distances should arrive by 6:00 AM to leave ample time to find a parking spot and take care of any pre-race needs.

Starting Line: 199 South Rd Dr, Chapel Hill

6:30 AM: Saturday, April 18

Recommended Parking Time

Runners for all distances need to be parked by 6:30 AM to avoid the hospital shift change.

7:15 AM: Saturday, April 18

Fleet Feet 4 Miler And Double Down Challenge Starting Time

Wheelchair participants will start at 7:10 AM.

7:45 AM: Saturday, April 18

Tar Heel 10 Miler Starts

Wheelchair participants starting time: 7:40 AM.

8:00 AM: Saturday, April 18

DDC Runners must be Starting the 10 Mile Portion by 8:00am

*Please see the DDC tab for more details

8:15 AM: Saturday, April 18

Fleet Feet 4 Miler Overall Awards Announced

Age group awards will not be announced. Age Group Awards will be available at the awards tent after the overall awards announcement.

9:00 AM: Saturday, April 18

Tar Heel 10 Miler Overall Awards Announced

Age group awards will not be announced. Age Group Awards will be available at the awards tent after the overall awards announcement.

10:00 AM: Saturday, April 18

Double Down Challenge Overall Awards Announced

Age group awards will not be announced. Age Group Awards will be available at the awards tent after the overall awards announcement.

10:35 AM: Saturday, April 18

Finish Line Closes

Finish Line: 199 Stadium Drive, Chapel Hill

Race day parking

Parking

We’ve highlighted key parking information below. The full parking plan, including detailed maps, is available here.

To reduce congestion on race day, we are recommending that each distance park in specific lots on the UNC Campus if you are planning to park on campus. Please follow these directions, so everyone has a smooth race day experience. We strongly recommend participants carpool. 

Parking Option A: UNC Campus Parking

If you’re running the Double Down Challenge and plan to park on campus, your parking option is:

Parking Option B: Town of Chapel Hill Parking

Please see this map to view the options. Please note that these lots are pay to park on race day.

Uber/Lyft Dropoff

We highly recommend runners to ride-share if possible! Please view this map for recommended drop-off locations. 

  • Best Drop-Off Location: Columbia Street between Manning Drive & Medical Drive — Please use the best lane for drop-off.
  • Driving Directions: Columbia Street is one-way and runners will need to access the drop-off location from the south.
  • Second Drop-off Location: William Blythe Avenue
  • Driving Directions: 
    • From 15-501, turn onto Manning Drive.
    • Turn onto Skipper Bowles Drive.
    • Turn onto William Blythe Avenue.
    • Exit William Blythe LEFT onto Hibbard Drive to Mason Farm Road.