Race for a Soldier
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Race For A Soldier, Gig Harbor WA
Race For A Soldier is the 16th annual community running event presented by the Permission To Start Dreaming Foundation on September 13, 2026. The event raises awareness of challenges faced by military service members, veterans and first responders living with post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injuries. The foundation delivers Mind, Body and Spirit workshops, courage and leadership summits, access to equine therapy and counseling, the Warrior PATHH training program, and peer-to-peer support meetings called Huddles in Gig Harbor.
The event base is the Tom Taylor Family YMCA in Gig Harbor, Washington. Multiple official course options are offered for different participants:
- 5K run/walk
- 10K run
- Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
- Kids' Run (100 m)
- Virtual Run
On-course services include seven water stations, aid stations with first aid supplies, and portable restrooms near the start/finish and along the routes. A medical tent is located near the finish area and gear check is provided in a large box truck near the finish. Packet pickup is held at the Best Western Wesley Inn & Suites on the Friday and Saturday before race day. Walkers and strollers are permitted; Nordic walking sticks are allowed. Bicycles, skates and skateboards are not allowed on course except for registered wheelchairs and official course vehicles. Road closures are partial in places and some sections remain open to vehicle traffic with coned running lanes. Awards are given to the top three male and female finishers in the 5K and 10K and official course maps are provided for each distance.
Volunteers support registration, aid stations, course guidance and other race operations and help enable the event to run smoothly. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
