CARA Run for Their Lives!
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About the race
Run For Their Lives is Carolina Animal Rescue & Adoption's 18th annual charity run on August 22, 2026, at Kiwanis Park, 1800 Wicker Street, Sanford, NC. The event raises funds to support CARA's shelter operations and animal care, including food, shelter, vaccinations, and spay/neuter services.
Race options include:
- 5K Run/Walk
- 10K
- 15K Challenge Race
- 1/2 Mile Kids' Fun Run
The 5K and 10K courses begin and finish at Kiwanis Park, run through historic downtown Sanford and the new paved Greenway, and are USATF certified and chip timed. Participants may choose a nonchip fun-run option to avoid timing for those distances. A Challenge option combines the 5K and 10K with combined times and a special medal; runners attempting the Challenge are advised they should complete the 5K in under 45 minutes to allow time to start the 10K group. The 10K allows walk/run as long as participants can maintain about a 15 minute per mile pace; pure walking is not permitted in the 10K.
A virtual option is available, and a "Sleep For Their Lives" option allows supporters to participate without running. Dogs that are leashed and vaccinated may join many participants; strollers are welcome on the course with noted guidance. Kids 12 and under may enter the untimed fun run and receive a finisher medal. Race day bib pickup and new registrations occur at Kiwanis Park; there is no advance bib pickup. Registration by August 1 is suggested to guarantee T-shirt size. Awards include overall and age group medals, Challenge medals, and prizes for the first dog across the finish line. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
