The Great Train Race
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The Great Train Race
The Great Train Race will take place in downtown Fredericksburg, VA on May 3rd 2026. The event is described as one of the largest timed kids' races on the east coast and is focused on youth competition and a race-day festival atmosphere.
The course starts near the Fredericksburg Train Station, runs through historic downtown, and crosses the Crown Trophy finish line at the City Docks. A Race Festival is held in the commuter lot behind the Train Station and includes awards, music, vendors, and treats.
The event consists of three youth races for participants under 18:
- 1 mile Express for ages 6 to 17
- 1/2 mile George Dashington for ages 10 and under
- 1/4 mile Caboose Run for ages 5 and under
The Express and George Dashington races are chip timed. The Caboose Run is a fun run and is not timed.
A Participant Guide provides race-day details such as parking and course maps. The event relies on more than 100 volunteers to operate and acknowledges volunteer contributions. Proceeds benefit Loisann’s Hope House, an organization that helps families move from homelessness to permanent housing since 1987. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
