If you’ve been to an Atlanta Braves game at Truist Park and heard the crowd suddenly erupt during a break in the action, there’s a good chance it was for “The Freeze” — the costumed sprinter who turns an in-game promotion into a must-see race.
This guide explains who The Freeze is, how the race works, how you can participate, and the best ways to catch it when you’re at a Braves game in Atlanta.
The Freeze is a Braves game-day entertainer known for:
Behind the costume is a former competitive sprinter and track athlete who now works as a performer and race starter for the Braves. Locals quickly discovered that this isn’t just a mascot bit — this is a genuinely fast runner who makes the between-innings break one of the highlights of the night.
For Atlanta fans, The Freeze has become:
The Freeze race is an in-game promotion that happens during select home games at Truist Park, usually:
It’s not guaranteed every game, but it’s common during regular-season home games when weather and timing cooperate.
If you’re planning your seats and want a good view of the race:
If you already have tickets in the 300-level (upper deck), you can still see the race, but you’ll be further from the action. Many fans head down to the concourse railings in the outfield or near the foul poles if they want a closer look — just be respectful of ushers and posted rules.
The Freeze race is simple but dramatic, and that’s why it’s so popular.
The Freeze is legitimately fast — much faster than the average fan. The head start is designed so that:
Some nights, the fan misjudges their speed and starts too fast, fading late. Other nights, The Freeze stumbles or mis-times the chase. Those rare upsets are the ones that usually go viral.
There’s no guaranteed way for any fan in Atlanta to be chosen, but understanding how the Braves typically handle it can help.
Participants are usually:
The Braves’ in-game entertainment team (you’ll see them in branded shirts, often with microphones and cameras nearby) scouts the stands for fans who:
There is usually no public, open sign-up line at the ballpark where you can just register to race that same day.
While there’s no official system you can rely on, Atlanta locals often try:
Because selection involves liability and on-field access, final decisions rest with Braves staff and game-day policies, which may change from season to season.
If you do get picked to race The Freeze at Truist Park, here’s what typically happens:
You’ll be running on:
Most fans treat it as a fun memory, not a serious competition, but it’s still a real sprint. It’s important to listen closely to instructions and run within your comfort level.
The Freeze race is designed to be fun, but it still involves sprinting at high effort in front of thousands of people.
While the Braves’ current eligibility rules may change, participants are generally expected to:
If you attend Braves games with children or older relatives in Atlanta, it’s worth understanding that:
If you have concerns or special needs, you can ask a Braves Guest Services staff member about their accessibility approach to on-field promotions.
If you want the most current information about The Freeze race or other in-game features, your best sources at Truist Park are:
Truist Park Guest Services Desks
(Locations can change slightly, but they are typically found on the concourse levels behind home plate and in main concourse areas.)
You can also reach the Braves organization through:
Atlanta Braves (Front Office / General Information)
Truist Park
755 Battery Ave SE
Atlanta, GA 30339
Main phone (commonly listed for general info): 404-577-9100
When you contact or speak with staff, you can ask about:
Policies and offerings can shift between seasons, so checking close to your game date is the best approach.
Seeing The Freeze is just one part of a Braves game night. Many Atlanta locals build a full outing around it:
Right outside Truist Park, The Battery Atlanta is a mixed-use district with:
If you’re aiming to be in your seat in time to catch The Freeze, plan to:
Common options for reaching Braves games include:
Traffic around I-75 and I-285 near the stadium can be heavy near game times, so leave a buffer if you don’t want to miss The Freeze race once you’re inside.
| Topic | What Atlanta Fans Should Know |
|---|---|
| Who is The Freeze? | A costumed, extremely fast sprinter who races fans at Braves games. |
| Where is the race? | Along the outfield warning track at Truist Park. |
| When does it happen? | During select middle innings of home games, not always announced. |
| How are racers chosen? | Usually by Braves promotions staff from the stands or sponsor ties. |
| Can you sign up in advance? | Not typically in a public way; selection is handled by game-day staff. |
| What do you win? | A sponsor-backed prize if you finish ahead of The Freeze. |
| Best viewing spots | Lower-level outfield or infield seats with a clear view of the track. |
| Who can race? | Generally adults/older teens who appear able to sprint safely. |
If you’re new to Atlanta or visiting and want to experience The Freeze:
Whether you ever get to step onto the warning track or just watch from the stands, The Freeze is one of those uniquely Atlanta ballpark traditions that makes Braves games feel different from anywhere else.
