Run For Kids Challenge

Run for Kids Challenge

Run for Kids Challenge is a trail running fundraiser held at Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, AL. The event uses a 3.4 mile loop that circles Double Oak Lake and passes landmarks such as the Cedar Pavilion, the beach area, the marina, Terrace Drive, the dam, and the Lake Trail. Runners must pass under the arch each lap for it to count.

Race options include multiple distances and formats:

• 50k
• 12 Hour Challenge
• 6 Hour Challenge
• 10K
• Kids Half mile

10K entrants complete two laps of the 3.4 mile course. 12 Hour Challenge participants run the loop for most of the event and then move to progressively shorter laps near the end of the race; lap counting is enforced at the pavilion arch. The Kids Half is a free half mile race for children and is sponsored by The F.A.R.M.; donations to Smile A Mile are requested but not required.

Timing is handled with HuTag ankle timing chips on neoprene straps. Organizers recommend wearing crew length socks so the tag sits on the sock rather than bare skin. Awards are given overall and by age categories for the 10K and the 12 Hour races, with finisher awards for 12 Hour participants.

Run for Kids donates 100 percent of race proceeds beyond basic expenses to Smile A Mile. Organizers report that cumulative donations have exceeded six figures and some years produced significant additional runner fundraising. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.