Veteran's Day Defenders Dash 10k
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2026 Veteran's Day Defenders Dash 5k & 10k
The Veteran's Day Defenders Dash is a road and trail running event held at Burke Lake Park in Fairfax Station, Virginia. The event offers two race distances:
- 5k
- 10k
Courses combine paved road and trail sections; the first and last half mile of both distances are on paved roads. The trail portion runs around the lake, includes some roots, and is described as fairly well maintained without major elevation gains. Water stations are placed along each course: two on the 5k and three on the 10k at approximately mile markers 0.5, 2.6, 3.1, and 5.7, with Gatorade available at some stations. Restrooms are located near the ice cream parlor.
The event features chip timing, a finisher's medal, and a technical (drifit) event shirt. A virtual race option is available for participants who cannot attend in person. Points earned at the event count toward the Year-Long 5k, 10k, and Back of the Pack series and toward the Fall Series. Awards include top three men and women overall and first and second in standard age groups from 19 and under through 70 plus; overall top-three finishers are not eligible for age-group awards.
Packet pickup is offered at Road Runner Sports in Falls Church and also at the event. Registration fees are listed with early and late rates and an additional increase on race morning. Live results are posted online and final results with series points are posted the Monday after the race. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
