Tallahassee, FL – The Southeast’s most anticipated cross-country event is kicking off with a bang! Apalachee Regional Park proudly presents the HOKA + Nights of Thunder Cross Country Festival, slated to light up the Labor Day weekend from September 1st to 3rd, 2023. This extraordinary festival promises an electrifying experience as athletes dash through the night on a beautifully illuminated course, accompanied by pulsating music and a spectacular fireworks display.

The HOKA + Nights of Thunder Cross Country Festival is the ultimate test for teams across the region, offering a unique opportunity to kick off the season with a thrilling challenge. Whether you’re a college, high school, or middle school team, or a member of the public looking to join the action, this event promises an adrenaline-packed experience for all participants.

The festivities will begin with a special shakeout run and course preview on Friday, September 1st, led by none other than renowned HOKA athletes Abby Nichols and Nick Hauger. This exclusive opportunity allows runners to familiarize themselves with the course and get inspired by elite athletes. Renowned for hosting the 2021 NCAA National Championships and selected as the site for the 2026 XC World Championships, Apalachee Regional Park stands as an iconic venue for this cross-country extravaganza.

Participating coaches will be in for a treat too! The first 100 registered coaches will receive a welcome kit, including a customized clipboard, RTIC tumbler, and dri-fit polo. All coaches will have access to the air-conditioned coaches’ tent, complete with snacks and refreshing beverages, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to test your summer fitness and compete against the best in the region! Secure your spot today and register your team at www.NightsofThunder.com. The event is produced by FRESHJUNKIE Racing with the support from Visit Tallahassee Sports. Sponsors include HOKA, Tallahassee Coca-Cola Bottling Company, and Lamar. Join the excitement and share your experience using #NoNightsOff and #NTXC.

About HOKA:

HOKA is a leading athletic footwear and apparel brand, committed to helping athletes reach new heights and achieve their goals.

About FRESHJUNKIE Racing:
FRESHJUNKIE Racing is an event production company based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Producing events since 2010, FJR manages, markets, and produces 24 events annually across Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Missouri. Creating memorable experiences for 50,000 participants annually, the events produce over $15 Million in economic impact in the communities, 12,000 hotel room nights, and $2.7 Million in charitable impact. For more info visit: https://freshjunkieracing.com/

About The Leon County Division of Tourism/Visit Tallahassee: The Leon County Division of Tourism (Visit Tallahassee) is the official destination marketing organization charged with marketing Tallahassee-Leon County as a premier leisure, business and sports destination through direct sales, advertising, public relations, sports and visitor services. The Capital of Cross-Country, Tallahassee-Leon County is home to the internationally recognized cross-country course at Apalachee Regional Park, which will serve as the host for the 2026 World Athletics Cross-Country Championships. In 2022 Tallahassee-Leon County welcomed 2.3 million visitors who contributed $1.2 Billion in economic impact and accounts for more than 14,708 people employed in our community in the tourism & hospitality industry. For more information, go to VisitTallahassee.com or call toll free (800) 628-2866.

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