Straight Street Hill Climb

Straight Street Hill Climb

Sunday, November 23, 2025 9:00 am

Cincinnati, OH

Once again, the Straight Street Hill Climb is scheduled to return to its rightful spot on the calendar.....The Sunday before Thanksgiving!

Event Overview

• Format: The events will follow the same format from recent years.
• Categories: We will have our traditional Run/Walk/Ruck climb followed by the Bike Climb and then the Duathlon.
• Registration: All registration will be online this year, including race day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: So, What is the Straight Street Hill Climb?

A: A .36 mile assault on one of Cincinnati's steepest inclines. The Straight Street Hill Climb is two minutes of self-inflicted torture.

Q: When did this event start and by who?

A: 2024 will be the 48th anniversary of the run started by the Clifton Track Club back in 1976.

Q: Is there a charity involved?

A: For 2025, all donations go directly to our charity partner, the Cincinnati Soap Box Derby to help with their events throughout the year.

Q: What kinds of events are there?

A: There are Three events: Run, Bike and Duathlon.

• Run: Get yourself from the bottom of the hill to the top.
• Rucking: Added in 2018 for those who need "extra punishment".
• Bike: A challenging climb on a bicycle.
• Duathlon: Run it then Bike it: the Worlds Shortest Duathlon!

Q: What is the Rucking Category?

A: The Rucking category involves walking while carrying a weighted rucksack/backpack.

Q: Can I participate in more than one event?

A: Yes, you can choose to do one, two, or all three events.

Q: What is the Course like?

A: The .36 Mile Course is Straight. All races begin at the bottom of the hill, at McMicken.

Q: What is the best Strategy?

A: Keep breathing and don't pass out. Previous competitors recommend cold beverages post-event.

Q: Will there be Race Shirts?

A: Classy Technical Long-sleeved Race shirts available for $18, ordered by October 31, 2025.

Q: What about those cool fancy .36 stickers?

A: Purchase them at signup for $5.00.

Q: Will there be awards?

A: Yes, there will be numerous awards for each event, including Age Divisions and Clydesdale Divisions.

Q: How much does it cost to participate?

A: Here are the prices

• Pre-registration: $17.50 for one event, $20 for two, $22.50 for three.
• Late Registration: $20 for one event, $22.50 for two, $25 for three.
• Kids Discount: Kids 12 and under can participate for only $10.

Q: Where do I go to check in?

A: Check-in will take place from 7:30 - 8:45 at the top of the hill at the corner of University Court and Straight Street.

Q: What time does the race start?

A: The Run will begin at 9:00. ARRIVE EARLY.

Q: Can I sign up on race day?

A: Yes, all registration will be done online only.

Q: Where is Straight Street?

A: Straight Street is near the University of Cincinnati in Clifton. Click on the Coordinates link for directions.

Google: 500 Straight Street, 45219

Coordinates: 39.129862, -84.523702

Q: What is the parking situation like?

A: Plenty of parking is available, but early arrival is recommended.

Q: Will there be an awards ceremony?

A: Yes, there will be a brief awards ceremony at the top of the hill following the events.

Q: What is going on after the race?

A: NEW in 2023: A post-race celebration at Wiedemann’s Fine Beer, Brewery & Pub.

Q: Where is the best place to watch the races?

A: Spectators are encouraged to line the street near the top of the hill to cheer on finishers.

Q: What if I want to pay with cash on Race Day?

A: All registration will be online this year, including race day.

Q: I am busy that day. Is there any way that I can still compete?

A: You can choose our VIRTUAL RUN or VIRTUAL BIKE event.

Q: Where can I find more information about this event?

A: Check out our Straight Street Hill Climb Page on Facebook for updates.

For more details and registration, visit the official race page: Straight Street Hill Climb.