Heart of a Lion 5K Run/Walk

AUG
23
2026
Join the 12th annual chip timed 5K run or walk at Ella Sharp Park to support the Jackson Area Special Olympics. This family friendly event includes a free kids fun run and benefits local athletes with intellectual disabilities.
Sun 23 Aug 2026
5 kilometers

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Heart of a Lion 5K Run/Walk

The 12th Annual Heart of a Lion 5K Run/Walk takes place at Ella Sharp Park in Jackson, Michigan. This chip-timed event serves as a fundraiser for the Special Olympics Michigan Area 19 (Jackson County), with all proceeds supporting year-round sports training and athletic competition for persons with intellectual disabilities within the local community. The race is part of the ORS Race Series.

Participants can choose from the following events:

  • 5k Run
  • 5k Walk
  • Kids Fun Run (Free)

The 5k Run and 5k Walk courses feature a finish line located in the parking lot in front of the museum. The event is professionally timed by the Michigan Running Foundation, and live results are provided during the competition. Overall awards are presented to the top male and female finishers in both the Open and Masters (40+) categories for the run and walk. Additionally, age group awards recognize the top three finishers across several categories ranging from ages 0-12 to 85+.

Registration includes a designated period for guaranteed t-shirts. For the safety of all participants, the event maintains a policy that prohibits dogs, excluding service animals. Packet pickup is available the day before the race at the local SOMI office or on the morning of the event at Ella Sharp Park. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

5 km
5k Walk
5 km
5k Run
Kids Fun Run