HTB FAQ

Hit the Bricks Frequently Asked Questions

Event & Participation

What is Hit the Bricks?

Hit the Bricks is Wake Forest University’s annual 8-hour relay fundraiser benefiting the Brian Piccolo Cancer Research Fund at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist’s Comprehensive Cancer Center. Teams spend the day walking and running laps around the Upper Quad while raising money for cancer research.

When and where is Hit the Bricks?

Hit the Bricks will take place on Thursday, October 1, 2026, on the Upper Quad at Wake Forest University.

Does my team need someone running at all times?

While we certainly encourage teams to have participants present throughout the day, that decision is ultimately up to your team. We welcome participants to engage in whatever way works best for their schedule and comfort level.

How are laps tracked?

Each team receives a unique Deacon OneCard used to track laps. Every time a participant passes the lap tracking station, the card is scanned and credited toward the team’s total. Only one lap can be counted per team at a time.

Will water be provided?

Yes. Water will be available throughout the day at the Wake Well and at an additional hydration station near check-in. Participants are strongly encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle.

Can my family participate?

Absolutely! Family members are welcome to attend the event and participate in activities throughout the day. Be sure to join us for the Parent & Family Lap during the afternoon.

 

Team Competitions & Bonus Opportunities

What is Fundraising Hour?

Fundraising Hour takes place from 2-3 pm. During this time, the team that raises the most money will earn 25 bonus laps, the equivalent of more than six miles of running. All donations made during this hour count toward the competition.

What is Penalty Hour?

Penalty Hour begins at 3:30 pm. During this competition, the team in each division that makes the largest single donation during the designated hour may select one opposing team in its division to run backward for the remainder of the hour.

The penalized team must continue running backward until:

  • They match the donation amount
  • Another team makes a larger donation and assumes control of the penalty
  • Or, the competition period concludes

Failure to comply with the penalty results in disqualification from award consideration.

How can my team earn bonus laps?

Throughout the day, teams can earn bonus laps by participating in specialty laps, fundraising challenges, competitions, and other event activities. Additional details will be released closer to the event.

 

Participant Fundraising

I wasn’t notified of a donation. What should I do?

Occasionally, processing donation notifications may be delayed. If you believe a donation is missing, please contact the Hit the Bricks Executive Team.

How do I share my individual fundraising page?

Visit the Participants page, search for your name, and copy the URL from your profile page to share with potential donors.

How do I share my team fundraising page?

Visit the Teams page, search for your team, and copy the URL from your team profile.

Where should I share my fundraising page?

Many participants share their page with friends, family members, coworkers, alumni, and social media networks. The more people you reach, the greater your impact.

What should I say when asking for donations?

We recommend using the sample email and text templates provided by Hit the Bricks. Personal stories about why you support the cause are often the most effective.

 

Event Day Logistics

What should I bring?

We recommend bringing:

  • A reusable water bottle
  • Comfortable walking or running shoes
  • Sunscreen
  • Team decorations and banners
  • Lawn chairs or blankets
  • A positive attitude and plenty of energy
  • What happens if it rains?

Event plans may be adjusted due to weather. Participants should monitor the Hit the Bricks Instagram and official communications for the latest updates.

Who should I contact with questions?

Please feel free to reach out to the Hit the Bricks Executive Team at or Executive Director Ellie DeMinico at with any questions. We’re happy to assist with registration, fundraising, donations, sponsorship opportunities, event-day logistics, or anything else related to Hit the Bricks.