Judy M. Merritt Memorial 5K
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
2026 Judy M. Merritt Memorial 5K & Family Fun Day
The 12th annual Judy M. Merritt Memorial 5K & Family Fun Day takes place on March 14, 2026, at Hoover's Veterans Park, 4800 Valleydale Road, Birmingham, AL 35242. The event is rain or shine. Proceeds from the race fund scholarships for Jefferson State Community College students in need. The event honors Jefferson State’s former president Judy M. Merritt, who served as president for 35 years.
- 5K
- Sleep In 5K / Virtual Challenge
Registration, fees and packet pickup
Registration fees for the 5K are $20 if registered before February 13; $25 from February 14 to March 13; and $30 on race day. College students and participants aged 18 and under pay $15 with code STUDENT. The Sleep In 5K / Virtual Challenge fee is $15. All participants receive a swag bag and a race day shirt; the T-shirt is guaranteed only for those registered before February 13.
Packet pickup is in the lobby of the Judy M. Merritt Health Science building on JSCC’s Shelby-Hoover campus (across from Veterans Park at Valleydale Road and Jaguar Drive) on Thursday, March 12 between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m., and Friday, March 13 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Packets are also available race day at the Veterans Park Pavilion between 7:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m.; all runners should be checked in by 8:30 a.m.
Awards and on-site activities
Medals are awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place top male and female overall, and to top male and female runners in these age groups: 12 & under, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60+. On-site activities include free popcorn, cotton candy, a DJ, face painting, and additional refreshments. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
