Scottsdale’s Beat the Heat race to return in June after five-year hiatus

PHOENIX — The “hottest race on Earth” is returning to Arizona in June after a five-year hiatus.

Registration for Scottsdale’s Beat the Heat is already open. Participants have the option to choose between the 5K or the 10.22-kilometer race. Tickets will cost $51 and $62.60.

The event is scheduled for June 16, just a few days before the Phoenix metropolitan area experienced its hottest day ever recorded. Temperatures in the area reached 122 degrees on June 26, 1990.

The race will start at 2:42 p.m. with the Racer’s Prayer and the National Anthem before the gun goes off at 2:47 p.m..

First prize in the event will receive $1,990 to celebrate the year of the hottest day recorded.

Because of the physical demand of the race, runners are encouraged to visit a doctor before registering. Hydration stations will be provided every half-mile as opposed to every two miles that is typical in a 10K.

Multiple ambulances, paramedics and other safety personnel will be present for the duration of the event.

Beat the Heat is part of the Scottsdale Fahrenheit Festival which features an arm wrestling competition and a beer and cocktail festival in addition to the race.

The three events take place all on the same day at WestWorld of Scottsdale located on Bell Road and the Loop 101.