5K for Aidan J. Run & 1 Mile Walk for Heart-Safe Communities - VIRTUAL 1 Mile Walk
Race facts
- Start time
- 8:00 AM
- Distances
- 5K Run, 1 Mile Walk, Kids Races, Virtual Options
- Entry fee
- from $15Prices increase $5 on Race Day. Youth/Senior 5K is $25, Youth/Senior 1 Mile is $15. Regular 5K is $35, Regular 1 Mile is $25. Virtual is $5 less.
- Terrain
- Trail
- Organizer
- Aidan's Heart Foundation
- Registration
- Open
From the official race website, checked 2026-09-29. Official page
External Event
Distance
1 mi
Pace
All paces
Terrain
Trail
Difficulty
Beginner-friendly
About this run
The 5K for Aidan J. Run & 1 Mile Walk for Heart-Safe Communities is the 14th annual event celebrating Aidan's legacy and supporting the mission to end preventable sudden cardiac death in youth. The event raises funds to train community members in CPR and AED skills, empower youth as CPR instructors, and help schools implement cardiac safety plans. Recent advocacy efforts have led to new state laws providing funding and guidelines for AED placement and CPR training in Pennsylvania schools.
This year, participants are encouraged to go beyond just running or walking by creating fundraising pages to gather support from friends and family. Those who cannot participate in person can still contribute by fundraising or donating. Every dollar raised directly supports Aidan's Heart Foundation's efforts to provide CPR & AED training, place lifesaving AEDs, screen young hearts, and enhance community preparedness for sudden cardiac arrest.
Who it's for
This event is suitable for runners and walkers of all levels, with options for a 5K run, a 1-mile walk, and kids' races. The 1-mile walk is particularly family-friendly and accommodates strollers.
What to expect
- Packet pickup and race-day registration open at 8:00 AM.
- The 5K run starts at 9:15 AM, followed by the 1-mile walk at 9:20 AM.
- The 5K is chip-timed, with results available on-site and online.
- Strollers are welcome for the 1-mile walk but not permitted in the 5K run.
- Dogs are not permitted on the trail for the safety of all participants.
- Parking is available in municipal lots near Planet Fitness or Kerr Park, requiring a short walk to the trailhead.
Good to know
- The event takes place on the Struble Trail, starting at The Ponds/Victims Memorial Park in Downingtown, PA.
- Race-day payments can be made via Apple Pay, credit card, cash, or check payable to Aidan's Heart Foundation.
- A free t-shirt was included with registration before 9/20/2026, but they may be available at the event.
Typical conditions
For events around October 2026 in Downingtown, PA, United States: Typical autumn conditions in this region — conditions can change quickly; confirm race-day guidance on the official page.
How to prepare
Trail events reward time on uneven surfaces and hills. Practice footing and bring the shoes and hydration the organizer recommends — details vary by race.
Find races near youGetting there
This event is listed in Downingtown, PA, United States. Confirm the exact start venue, parking, and transit options on the official registration page.
Frequently asked questions
What is the date of the 5K for Aidan J. Run & 1 Mile Walk?+
The event is scheduled for Saturday, October 3, 2026.
What distances are offered?+
The event includes a 5K Run, a 1 Mile Walk, and Kids Races. Virtual options are also available.
Where is the event located?+
The event takes place on the Struble Trail, starting at The Ponds/Victims Memorial Park, Downingtown, PA 19335.
What are the registration fees?+
For regular registration (ages 23-64), the 5K Run is $35 and the 1 Mile Walk is $25. Student & Senior registration (ages 5-22 and 65+) is $25 for the 5K Run and $15 for the 1 Mile Walk. Virtual options are discounted by $5. Prices increase by $5 on race day. Registration is free for children in the Kids Races.
Are strollers or dogs allowed?+
Strollers are welcome in the 1 Mile Family Walk but are not permitted in the 5K Run. Dogs are not allowed on the trail for safety reasons.
How can I register for the event?+
You can register through the official event website at http://www.5kforAidanJ.com.
Is there a fundraising component to the event?+
Yes, participants are encouraged to create fundraising pages to support Aidan's Heart Foundation's mission.
What is the start time for the races?+
Check-in and race-day registration open at 8:00 AM. The 5K Run starts at 9:15 AM, and the 1 Mile Walk begins at 9:20 AM.
Registration is handled by the official event organizer
Know a local group? Host a community run in Downingtown
