• Can I just watch?

    Yes. Spectator tickets are available, but this isn’t a sit-and-watch event. You’ll be on foot for most of the day following your team, often covering 3-5 miles. No spectators under 14 on the course.

  • Is this kid-friendly?

    Childcare tickets are available for ages 2–13. Infants under 2 can be worn or in a stroller with a non-competing guardian. Kids 14+ can spectate with a parent.

  • Is this a CrossFit competition?

    No, it’s a mission-driven team event modeled after Special Operations training. There are no judges, no podiums, and no RX divisions. This is about suffering with purpose—honoring a fallen warrior by pushing yourself.

  • Who is this event for?

    Anyone with the guts to show up and the heart to honor. Whether you’re a CrossFit athlete, weekend warrior, or just someone tired of meaningless races, Hero Games is for you. Teamwork matters more than your Fran time.

  • How long is the event?

    Plan for 6–8 hours. This includes team movements, physically and mentally demanding events, with little to no downtime between stations. Expect to carry a 45lb ruck the entire day.

  • Can I choose my team?

    Yes and No. 4 of 6 teams are pre-built by local CrossFit gyms, the remaining 2 are "Open-to-All". Each team is 12 people, led by assigned Cadre—former SOF and civilian leaders.

  • What’s included with my ticket?

    All tickets include entry, dinner and refreshments. Competitor tickets include a Hero Games T-shirt and a swag bag.

  • What happens if I can’t make it?

    All ticket sales are final. Proceeds fund the Gold Star Family’s visit. If you bail, your funds still serve a purpose.

  • Where does the money go?

    Every dollar helps us host the honored Gold Star Family, covering travel, lodging, meals, and a week of unforgettable experiences in their Hero’s name. No one at Hero Games Charity draws a paycheck.

  • Can my company sponsor this?

    Yes. We’re always looking for mission-aligned sponsors who want to stand with us in honoring America’s elite. Hit the [Contact Us] page and we’ll get the ball rolling.

  • Do you run Hero Games in other places or more than once a year?

    No—and that’s intentional. Hero Games happens once a year, in one place—Bedford, VA. Why? Because we go all in for one SOF Gold Star Family. No roadshow. No shortcuts. Just one shot to do it right.

  • How do you choose which Gold Star Family to honor?

    We don’t pick names off a list. Each year’s family is chosen through personal relationships and community connections inside the Special Operations world. We don’t just honor a fallen Hero—we carry their legacy with purpose. That means knowing the family, understanding their story, and committing to serve them with everything we’ve got.

  • What if I can’t finish?

    Your team will get you through. Everyone finishes. This is a team event—built on grit, not glory. We start together, we finish together. That’s the standard. That’s the legacy.

  • What if it rains?

    Then it rains. We don’t stop for weather. We adapt and overcome—just like the guys we’re honoring did.

  • Can I volunteer instead of compete?

    Absolutely. Hero Games runs on volunteers. If you’ve got energy, heart, or skills—we’ll find you a job.