Freedom Is Never Free Half
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2026 Freedom is Never Free 5k, 10k & Half
This event offers three distances on the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath at Carderock Recreation Area in Potomac, MD. Courses run on a light gravel dirt trail and are laid out as single out-and-back routes with minimal elevation gains. Walkers and strollers are welcome and a virtual run option is available.
Points from this event count toward the 5k, 10k, Endurance and Back of the Pack Series, and toward the Fall Series. Registered participants receive a finisher’s medal, a technical Drifit event shirt, and chip timing.
Distances:
- Half marathon
- 10k
- 5k
Water and support are provided along each course. The half marathon has ten water stations at approximate mile markers 1.55, 2.7, 4.9, 5.3, 6.15, 6.95, 7.8, 8.2, 10.4 and 11.55. The 10k has four water stations at about miles 1.55, 2.7, 3.5 and 4.65. The 5k has one water station at about mile 1.55. Gatorade is available at some stations. Restrooms are by the main parking lot. Packet pickup is available at the event and there will be no on-site race registration.
The event benefits Operation Enduring Warrior. Live results are posted on Athlinks and final results with series points are posted the Monday after the event. There are four parking lots at Carderock and a GPS meeting pin is provided: 38.972563, -77.198738. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
