The Pirate 5k
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The Pirate 5k Run/Walk
The Pirate 5k Run/Walk is an annual 5 km running and walking event held on August 15, 2026, in Lincolnton, North Carolina. The event is based at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 315 North Cedar Street, and the route begins on North Cedar Street before continuing to the Lincolnton Rail Trail at First Federal Park near East Pine Street.
This is a timed and competitive 5k. Participants must have a timing device to receive an official time. Registration opens on September 10, 2025 and closes on August 12, 2026; the listed registration fee for the timed 5k is $30. Age based pricing applies for students. Packet pickup is available the day before and on the race day at the parish house at St. Luke’s.
Awards include overall male and female, first through third place in each age group, and a finisher medal for all participants. Age groups for male and female divisions include 14 and under, 15 to 19, 20 to 29, 30 to 39, 40 to 49, 50 to 59, 60 to 69, 70 to 79, and 80 plus. A guaranteed event shirt requires registration by August 3.
Local history and lore are part of the event setting. St. Luke’s graveyard contains the marked grave of Lorenzo Ferrer, often called the Pirate’s Grave, and some sources link that grave to the pirate Jean Lafitte. The Lincolnton Rail Trail is a 1.5 mile paved trail with benches and is maintained by the City of Lincolnton. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
