Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk - Orlando, FL

What is a Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk?

The Tunnel to Towers Run & Walk Series was created to honor the heroic life and death of Stephen Siller, a New York City firefighter (FDNY) who lost his life on September 11, 2001 after strapping on his gear and running 3 miles through the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel to the Twin Towers. We honor those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001 by supporting our first responders and military who make extraordinary sacrifices in the line of duty! For more information on the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, please visit www.t2t.org.

• Event Impact: Our 5K Run & Walk Orlando event attracts hundreds of local first responders and military service members and close to 2000 participants. Please join us and help honor our heroes.
• Anniversary Recognition: This year marks the 14th anniversary of our Orlando event at Cranes Roost Park and also the 25th anniversary of the September 11th attacks.

Please watch our 2026 T2T Orlando Race Video!

How far is a Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk?

This is a 5K (approx 3.1 miles). You are welcome to walk or run this event.

What time does the 5K begin?

All participants registered as a First Responder/Military are asked to be at the start line at approx. 7:00 AM, allowing spectators to line the course to show their thanks and respect, followed by a brief 9-11 ceremony starting at 7am and Race time beginning at 7:30 AM.

Where can I pick up my packet?

PGA TOUR SUPERSTORE (Altamonte Springs)
Next to Whole foods, 375 E Altamonte Dr, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701

What are the packet pick-up times?

• September 9: NOON - 5pm *no earlybirds please!
• September 10: 10am-6pm
• Race Day: You may also pick up on race morning at the venue starting at 6:00am.

Can I register the day of the run?

Yes! Same day Registration and Packet pickup will remain open until the start of the race. Day of registrations will only be available using a Q reader through your cell phone only. No paper registrations will be used. *Rate goes up $10 on morning of event.

I registered as VIRTUAL, can you mail me my packet?

We appreciate all our virtual participants: thank you for registering. While we’re unfortunately unable to mail them, you’re welcome to have someone pick them up on your behalf during Packet Pickup. Please message us to let us know so we can put it aside. We leave it up to you to run your race virtually, honoring the day in your own way and choosing to Never Forget.

When does online registration close?

*IMPORTANT* Online registration will remain OPEN through Saturday, September 12, 2026 and close promptly at 7:30 AM at race time. Registration prices on race day will increase $10 for all registrations. You can register on race morning at the Cranes Roost event site - it opens at 6 AM with the QR code or you can CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!

Is there parking available?

Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the Altamonte mall parking lot.

Do I have to wear my bib number?

Yes. Your race bib must be clearly displayed on the front of your outermost garment at all times. Participants without a visible bib may be removed from the course and will not receive an official finish.

I am a fast runner. Can I get a front-line position?

There will be an announcement for fast runners to come to the 'Start'. However, please note that all First Responders will be corralled at the starting line at the beginning of the race and we ask that their position be respected as all runners and walkers should be positioned behind them. The race is a chipped event: therefore, times are calculated based on crossing the timing mat.

Is there a First Responder Team Challenge this year?

No, in recognition of that defining moment in history, we have made the thoughtful decision to place the 'First Responder TEAM Competition Award' on hold beginning with this year’s T2T Orlando 5K. Our hope is to honor the true spirit of 9/11 by coming together as ONE — just as our first responders did that day — without distinction, competition, or division.

While this TEAM challenge award will not be presented this year, the 9/11 Stephen G. Siller Steel trophy and the 9/11 Stephen G. Siller Heroes trophy will both be respectfully displayed at the event for viewing and photo opportunities for the community. We hope they will serve as a quiet reminder of the camaraderie, sacrifice, and legacy they represent. All other individual competitions will remain the same.

Individual First Responder Competition - what are the Uniform Requirements?

The (Optional) Individual First Responder competition is an intense test of endurance requiring participants to run in full turnout gear. This tribute is intended for those who are physically prepared for the demands involved. Participants accept responsibility for their participation.

Note: All first responders competing in the competition must wear the same configuration of turnout gear to ensure fairness and consistency in the challenge.

• Firefighters: Minimum standard includes jacket, liners, pants and helmets. *tanks and boots are discouraged.
• Law Enforcement Officers: Minimum standard includes approved uniform (can be summer uniform), gun belt, and body armor.
• Military: Minimum standard includes approved military uniform and gear as required by the military branch.

Will water be available?

Yes, water stations will be available along the route and there will be water available at the Start/Finish Line.

What can you bring to the event?

Strollers and wheelchairs are permitted. Firefighter turnout gear and military backpacks are also permitted and encouraged! Please leave all personal items and valuables in your vehicle. All items should be stored securely at the owner's risk. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation will not be responsible for the loss of any items.

Can I bring my pet to the event?

No, there is a city ordinance that does not allow pets in the event site when an event involves road closures.

Does my registration fee count towards my fundraising goal?

Your registration fee does not count toward the fundraising goal. Registration fees help offset some of the expenses associated with making the Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk one of the country’s greatest annual events, however, your fundraising efforts enable us to continue to make a difference in the lives of so many in need.

Can I get a refund? Can I transfer my registration?

We do not provide refunds for the event regardless of if you cannot make the date or the foundation needs to cancel the event for extenuating circumstances. Registration may be *transferred to another person. This is a rain or shine event, but we will cancel if weather conditions become unsafe.

*Transfers must be received before Thursday, September 10th.

Running with someone else’s bib without notifying the race directors or timing company is a safety issue and is not permitted. Should something happen to you out on the race course, we need to ensure you receive the appropriate care