Bark & Bolt
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Event Overview
Bark & Bolt is a family and dog-friendly running event held at Patton Park in Hendersonville, North Carolina. The 2026 edition is the event's fourth year and is presented by Hunter Subaru. It partners with the Blue Ridge Humane Society to support animal rescue efforts.
Available Races
Participants can choose from several event options:
- A timed 5K race, which can be run with or without a dog.
- An untimed One Mile fun run/walk.
- A 100-Meter Paw Pursuit dash, which is open to participants from other races.
- A Virtual Bark & Bolt 5K for those not attending in person.
Event Features
New for 2026, all registered participants will receive a custom, spinning finisher medal. The event includes a Bark in the Park Dog Fair with local, pet-friendly vendors, which runs alongside the races. After the runs, there is a Top Dog Contest.
Youth participants aged 12 and under receive discounted registration for the 5K. A Bike Corral is a new option for 2026, offering an incentive for those who ride to the event. Registrants receive a free custom shirt if they sign up before a July deadline.
Participant Guidelines
The event has specific safety rules for dogs. All dogs must be on a non-retractable leash, be dog-friendly and well-behaved, and be up-to-date on vaccines. Owners are liable for their pet's actions and must clean up after them. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
