9 11 Memorial 5k
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9 11 Memorial 5K : Valdosta, GA (September 5, 2026)
The Valdosta Fire Department will hold its 5th Annual 9/11 Memorial 5K on September 5, 2026, to remember the events of September 11, 2001, and to honor those who lost their lives and the first responders who sacrificed in the line of duty. The event carries a patriotic theme and community members are encouraged to line the course with decorated signs or costumes.
The course is an out and back that runs past Valdosta State University and starts at the intersection of N Valley and N Patterson in downtown Valdosta. The 5K is USATF certified (GA24032WC), which may allow qualifying times to count toward major events with standards such as the Peachtree Road Race and marathons like New York and Boston.
A commemorative hooded sweatshirt will be available for $30, with shipping offered for an additional $10; the design is described as a special one of a kind and color details are forthcoming. Packet pickup is offered the day before the race at 4434 Forrest Street Ext., Valdosta, GA, and on race day at the event site. Volunteers are encouraged. An inter-agency competition invites local agencies and bases to enter teams; a trophy and prize package will be awarded to the agency team with the most participants.
Awards include top overall male and female, masters male and female, age-group awards (11 and under; 12–14; 15–19; 20–29; 30–39; 40–49; 50–59; 60–69; 70 and over), plus recognition for the oldest and youngest finishers and the most patriotic participant. One hundred percent of race proceeds will be donated to Valor Service Dogs, Inc. Awards and memorial ceremonies will be held on the front courthouse lawn at 100 E. Central Ave., Valdosta, GA. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
