Leader of the Pack
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16th Annual Leader of the Pack 5K
The event takes place on May 2, 2026 at McNair Field, 214 McNair Drive, Forest City, NC. It includes an in person Leader of the Pack 5K and a DIY 5K virtual option. Both distances are 3.1 miles.
Registration opens January 28, 2026. In person registration is listed at $25 through April 17, 2026 and increases to $30 from April 18 until race day. Student rates for age 18 and under are $10 during the early period and $15 for the later period. The DIY 5K has a registration fee of $25 for adults and $10 for students; its registration window closes on May 2, 2026. Race shirts are guaranteed for registrations received by April 17, 2026; after that shirts are available while supplies last on race day.
Awards for the 5K include top overall male and female (places 1 through 3), top master male and female (places 1 through 3), and age group awards for males and females (places 1 through 3) in the listed age brackets from 0-4 through 80+. School participation trophies are awarded to the top three schools based on the number of participants present and checked in on race day; family members, staff, and community participants count toward a school total when registered with that school.
The DIY 5K allows participants to run or walk at any location or time convenient to them, including tracks, trails, neighborhood routes, or treadmills. A new route is indicated for 2026. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
