It is for the adventurous, starting in Helen and finishing at Hogpen Gap. Runners will climb and climb and climb the steep terrain in all types of weather conditions, all uphill. The 46th Annual 18k Hogpen Hill Climb and 5k Piglet is a favorite and registration for the event is now open.
On January 18th in beautiful Helen, Georgia, runners will take part in one of the toughest races in North America with 3000 feet of steep, uphill climbing.
One of Habitat for Humanity of Northeast Georgia’s favorite fundraisers, the Hogpen Hill Climb is intense, challenging, and always memorable for those who watch, participate, or volunteer. “However you get involved, you will not forget what it is like to be a part of this event,” Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Northeast Georgia Brian Young described.
The course loops through downtown Helen, running alongside the Chattahoochee River. The 18k race begins with 3 to 4 fairly level miles but then increases in difficulty as the course ascends toward Hogpen Gap.
Around Mile 7, the weather often changes rapidly. It could be sleet or snow, gusty winds, thick fog, or on the flip side, warm and sunny.
Mile 8 is often described as “a cruel joke” because of its steep, punishing incline.
Mile 9 brings a little relief as the road levels off slightly but there is still a climb as the runners approach the summit.
Mile 10 is steep and can take a toll after a runner has endured six miles of tough terrain.
What keeps runners going, you might wonder? Young said, “The feeling of reaching the top after overcoming these challenges is a rewarding experience. Despite all the obstacles, reaching the top of the Hogpen Gap is a major achievement, marking the completion of a truly unique and challenging race.”
Runner Ami Kroeger remembers, “One year it was snowing heavily. I was expecting the course to be rerouted because of the elevation, but the road stayed open, and I got to experience the climb to the top — it was breathtaking, especially with the snow. That’s the beauty of the Hogpen. The weather can be unpredictable — it could be freezing and raining, or sunny and warm. That’s what makes this race so unique. There’s no other race course like it, and you never know what the weather will throw your way. But that’s all part of the challenge, and it makes the event unforgettable.”
Once runners reach the summit, there is post-race transportation. “Buses are available at the summit to take runners back to the starting line in Helen, though some runners choose to run back down, and others take on both the 5k and 17k as part of their training for other events later in the year,” Young explained.
Jonathan Harris, a Habitat for Humanity of Northeast Georgia Board Member, expressed, “Georgia’s weather always keeps things interesting. It could be 70 degrees or it could be snowing. One thing you can count on is the delicious chicken noodle soup served to all race participants at the summit. The soup is made with chicken donated by Springer Mountain Farms and prepared by El Jinete in Clarkesville. Some participants have run this race yearly, and a few have done it more than 30 times!”
Each year features a new coveted T-shirt design. It is a collector’s item because of the unique logo and the race’s special significance. Runners who have earned the shirt, wear it proudly. All finishers receive a medal, with special medals awarded to the top three finishers in each age group.
Habitat for Humanity of Northeast Georgia seeks volunteers, sponsors, and participants! For more information, contact Brian Young, Executive Director, at [email protected].
Ready for the ultimate race challenge? You can register here.
