Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk - Columbia, SC

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

• Purpose: The Tunnel to Towers 5K 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 through the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel to the Twin Towers.
• Honoring Heroes: It honors all of those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001 and supports our first responders and military who make extraordinary sacrifices in the line of duty!
• Foundation Info: For more information on the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, please visit t2t.org.
• Anniversary: This year marks the 25th anniversary of 9/11. On Friday, September 4, 2026, thousands of people will run or walk to honor first responders and remember all of those lives lost on 9/11.

How far is the Tunnel to Towers 5K Run/Walk?

• Distance: This is a 5k (3.1 miles). You are welcome to walk or run this event.
• Map: T2T Race Map

Race Location

• Venue: Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center
• Address: 1101 Lincoln Street, Columbia, SC US 20201

Can I get a timing chip?

• Race Type: Yes, this is a timed race. All registrants who complete online registration will be chip timed.
• Registration Link: Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk - Columbia, SC (runsignup.com)

When do Online Sales Close?

• Deadline: REGISTRATION WILL CLOSE FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 at 7:00 PM.

When is packet pickup?

• Pickup Dates: Packet Pick Up: Thursday, Sept 3rd from 4 pm- 7 pm and Friday, Sept 4th 9 am - 6 pm at the Convention Center.
• Race Start: The race starts at 7 pm. Registration will officially close at this time.
• Shirts: Please note that shirt sizes are not guaranteed. Shirts are first come, first serve.

Will I get a Tunnel to Towers Event T-shirt?

• Accommodations: We will do our best to accommodate all registrants.
• Late Registration: If you register late (after August 3, 2026), we will not guarantee shirts or shirt sizes.

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

• No Refunds: Unfortunately, ALL SALES ARE FINAL and we do not allow refunds.
• Transfer: However, you may transfer your registration to another participant.

What do I do if I lose my email confirmation?

• Check-In: If you can’t locate it and you are sure you registered DON’T STRESS. You’ll be on our list so we can check you in at packet pickup.

What do I do if I’d like to change my T-shirt size?

• Deadline: All T-shirt sizes will need to be changed before the August 3rd deadline.

Where can I park?

• Parking Options: Convention center parking lot before 5:30pm and Public/Columbia City parking garages and street parking.

Who is a Hero?

• Definition: Every first responder - firefighter, law enforcement officer, EMS/paramedic, and/or past or present member of our US Armed Forces (including National Guard) - is an important HERO in our community.
• Discount: First responders should register for this discounted rate and be prepared to provide official identification, if requested.

What is the First Responder Team Competition?

• Award: For firefighters: The Stephen G. Siller Steel Award - a stately award displaying a piece of the Twin Towers steel.
• Team Rules: The award can be won by the fire department which has a team of 5 participate by running in turnout gear: the four fastest times of their team members will be combined for the team’s total.
• Equipment Policy: Competitors must run in jackets (no liner), pants, helmet, and running shoes. No tank or boots are required.

Participation Medals and Awards

• Medals: Yes, we will have participation medals in 2026.
• Award Categories: Overall Awards - Top 3, Master awards - Top 3, Grand Masters - Top 3, Age Group awards - Top 3 (90 awards total).

Is there parking available?

• Nearby Parking: Yes, there is parking available nearby.
• Parking Information: Please pay attention to parking info which will be sent to you prior to the run/walk as there are several other major events in Downtown Columbia that night.

Where can I pick up my packet?

• Pickup Locations: Packet pick up will take place at the Columbia Convention Center on Thursday, September 3rd from 4pm- 7pm and Friday, September 4th from 9am-6pm.
• Shirts: Please note that shirt sizes are not guaranteed. Shirts are first come, first serve.

Do I have to wear my bib number?

• Display: Yes, please display your bib on the front of your outermost garment.

Will water be available?

• Water Stations: Yes, two water stations will be available along the route, and there will be water available at the finish.

What can you bring to the event?

• Allowed Items: Backpacks, diaper bags, etc. are allowed.

Can I run with a stroller, backpack, wheelchair, roller blades, bicycle, etc?

• Allowed: One can run with a stroller, backpack, or wheelchair.
• Not Allowed: Roller blades or bicycles are NOT allowed.

Is this event dog friendly?

• Policy: Yes, please make sure your dog is leashed and in accordance with