The Freeze at Atlanta Braves Games: What to Know Before You Go
If you’ve been to a Atlanta Braves game at Truist Park or watched on TV, you’ve probably seen one of the most famous between-innings races in baseball: The Freeze. For many locals, this blue-suited sprinter is just as much a part of the Atlanta game-day experience as the Tomahawk Chop and the Battery.
This guide breaks down who The Freeze is, how the race works, how fans get picked, and what to expect if you’re planning to see (or challenge) The Freeze at a Braves game in Atlanta.
Who Is “The Freeze”?
The Freeze is the on-field persona of a professional sprinter in a head-to-toe blue suit, goggles, and mask who races a fan from foul pole to foul pole at Truist Park.
A few key points:
- He’s an in-game entertainer for the Atlanta Braves.
- He’s also known locally as a very serious sprinter with legitimate track speed.
- During most home games, he races a fan in right field along the warning track.
For fans in Atlanta, The Freeze has become:
- A must-see in-game moment during Braves home games
- A fun, shareable part of the Truist Park experience
- A kind of local legend known for dramatic comebacks and occasional wipeouts
Where and When You Can See The Freeze in Atlanta
The Freeze is part of the Atlanta Braves home game experience at:
Truist Park
755 Battery Ave SE
Atlanta, GA 30339
Here’s what locals and visitors can generally expect:
- Location: The race takes place on the warning track in right field, typically along the outfield wall.
- Timing: Usually occurs between innings during the middle or late part of the game. The exact inning can vary.
- Games: Common at many regular-season home games, but not guaranteed for every single game or date.
Because in-game entertainment can change from night to night, the presence of The Freeze at any given game is not formally guaranteed. However, during the season he is frequently part of the standard Braves in-game promotion lineup.
How The Freeze Race Works
The Freeze race is simple to understand, even if you’re at Truist Park for the first time.
Basic Format
- One fan is selected from the crowd.
- The fan and The Freeze line up at the foul line in right field.
- The fan gets a head start (often a significant distance).
- Once the fan reaches a certain marker, The Freeze takes off.
- First person to the finish line near the opposite foul line wins.
The catch:
Even with a big head start, many fans are caught and passed by The Freeze near the end. That last-second overtake is what makes the race so dramatic and popular in Atlanta.
What the Crowd Sees
From the stands, especially in:
- Right field, outfield, or upper deck seats: you’ll get a good side view of the full sprint.
- Infield or home plate areas: you’ll mostly see the race stretch across the outfield, but the video board helps you follow it.
The entire stadium usually reacts loudly—especially when The Freeze stumbles, slips, or the fan somehow hangs on and wins.
How Do You Get Chosen to Race The Freeze?
This is one of the most common questions Atlanta fans ask.
Selection Process (What Typically Happens)
The Braves typically use an in-game promotions crew to find and select participants. While the exact method can vary by game, fans often notice:
- Promotions staff walking through certain seating areas before or during the game
- Staff approaching individuals who:
- Are enthusiastic
- Look ready to run in regular clothes
- Are of appropriate age and physical ability for a sprint
In most cases:
- You cannot just sign up online to race The Freeze.
- There usually isn’t a public open list or published registration form.
- Selection tends to happen spontaneously and on-site on game day.
Because details can change, the best way to improve your chances is to:
- Arrive early and be visible in your seat.
- Sit in areas that promotions staff frequently visit (often lower bowl or visible sections, though this can vary).
- Be clearly engaged and energetic—cheering, wearing Braves gear, etc.
There is no guarantee of being selected, and fans should view it as a fun long-shot opportunity, not a sure thing.
What If You’re Picked to Race The Freeze?
If you’re lucky enough to be chosen at a Braves game in Atlanta, staff will generally:
- Confirm your eligibility (age and basic safety considerations).
- Give you brief instructions on where to start and where to run.
- Escort you down to the field when it’s time.
What You Should Know
- You’ll usually run on the warning track, which is a dirt-like surface around the field.
- It’s a short, all-out sprint—not a long-distance run.
- The Freeze’s top speed is extremely high, so even if you’re athletic, expect a challenge.
Many Atlantans treat it less like a serious competition and more like a once-in-a-lifetime story to tell—getting smoked by The Freeze has almost become a badge of honor.
Tips for Seeing The Freeze at a Braves Game
If you’re planning a visit to Truist Park and want to make sure you catch The Freeze:
1. Pick the Right Seats
While you can see the race from most places in the stadium, for the best live view:
- Right field and outfield sections offer a closer look.
- Upper deck down the right-field line can give you a wide-angle view of the whole race.
The center-field video board also broadcasts the race, so you won’t miss it even from infield seats.
2. Watch the In-Between-Innings Entertainment
The Freeze race is part of the Braves’ regular in-game entertainment schedule, which also includes:
- Trivia contests
- Fan cams
- Other on-field games
Keep an eye on:
- The video board prompts
- The in-game host or announcer
- The Braves entertainment crew gathering someone from the stands
When the race is about to start, the crowd energy usually shifts noticeably.
3. Plan Around Game Timing
Because The Freeze usually runs during a mid- to late-game inning break, try:
- Not to leave for concessions or restrooms every inning, especially in the middle innings.
- To coordinate breaks with your group so at least someone can alert you when The Freeze appears.
The Freeze and Atlanta Baseball Culture
For Atlanta residents and frequent visitors, The Freeze has quickly become:
- A signature Braves tradition, especially for fans who visit Truist Park multiple times a season.
- A social media favorite, with locals sharing clips every time there’s a dramatic finish.
- A fun example of how Atlanta blends pro-level sport with showmanship.
Alongside the on-field Braves stars, The Freeze adds:
- A unique local identity to Braves games.
- A reason for even casual fans to stick around between innings.
- Another “you just have to see it live” element for out-of-town visitors.
Practical Info for Braves Fans in Atlanta
If you’re planning a trip to see the Braves—and hopefully The Freeze—here are key local details:
Truist Park
755 Battery Ave SE
Atlanta, GA 30339
The ballpark is part of The Battery Atlanta, a mixed-use area with restaurants, bars, and shops. Many Atlantans:
- Arrive early to eat or walk around The Battery.
- Stay after the game for post-game food or drinks.
Getting There
Common options include:
- Driving and parking in nearby decks and lots around Truist Park
- Rideshare drop-off/pickup zones near The Battery
- Some fans also connect via CobbLinc or other local transit options to reach the stadium area
When planning, factor in:
- Rush hour traffic on I-75/I-285 on game days
- Extra time to get through stadium security and to your seat before first pitch
Quick Reference: The Freeze at Atlanta Braves Games
| Topic | Key Details (Atlanta-Focused) |
|---|---|
| Who is The Freeze? | A costumed, elite-level sprinter who races a fan at Braves home games |
| Where does he race? | On the warning track in right field at Truist Park |
| When does the race happen? | Usually between innings during many regular-season home games |
| How long is the race? | A short sprint from near one foul pole to the other outfield side |
| How are fans chosen? | Typically by in-game promotions staff from the stands, day-of game |
| Can you sign up in advance? | Generally no public sign-up; selection is on-site and not guaranteed |
| Best seats to watch? | Right field / outfield sections, plus the main video board view |
| City context | A popular and distinctive part of the Atlanta Braves game experience |
If You’re Visiting Atlanta Just to See The Freeze
Many visitors plan a trip to Atlanta that includes:
- A Braves game at Truist Park
- Time in The Battery Atlanta
- Other local attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, or Atlanta BeltLine
To maximize your chances of seeing The Freeze:
- Choose a home game during the regular season.
- Arrive early, be in your seat for most inning breaks, and stay alert for the in-game host announcing the race.
- Treat The Freeze as a highlight, but also enjoy the full Braves and Battery atmosphere around it.
Whether you’re a lifelong Atlantan or a first-time visitor, catching The Freeze in action is one of those uniquely Atlanta sports moments that’s worth planning around.