Will to Run Challenge
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Will to Run Challenge
The Will to Run Challenge takes place during the week of September 18 to September 25, 2026. The event is organized by A Running Passion and includes an in-person 5K in Kennebunk, Maine, plus virtual race options across the event week. Registration opens May 27, 2026 and closes September 18, 2026.
Distances and entry details include:
- 5K in-person, $35, t-shirt guaranteed for registrations by August 14
- 5K virtual, $30, includes t-shirt and event bib
- 10K virtual, $40, includes t-shirt, bag, sticker, and event bib
- 15K combined, $50, submit separate 5K and 10K times; includes t-shirt, bag, sticker, and socks
- Kid's virtual, free, includes stickers, event bib, coloring pages, and an event checklist
The in-person 5K uses the Eastern Trail in Kennebunk on an out-and-back route that follows the former Eastern Railroad bed through forested sections. The trail surface is hard packed stone dust and is described as extremely flat. The course crosses the Maine Turnpike on a pedestrian bridge opened in 2011.
Packet pick-up is scheduled at several local locations during the event week, including Round Turn Distillery, Waterhouse Field, and Banded Brewing in Biddeford, with an additional pick-up option in Portland at Marathon Sports. Packets for participants from farther away are expected to arrive the week of the event. Completion times and photos must be submitted by September 25, 2026. Proceeds support A Running Passion's scholarship and community outreach initiatives. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
