5K for Aidan J. Run & 1 Mile Walk for Heart-Safe Communities - 1 Mile (In-Person) Walk
Race facts
- Start time
- 8:00 AM
- Distances
- 5K Run, 1 Mile Walk, Kids Races
- Entry fee
- from 25Prices increase $5 on Race Day. Free t-shirt with registration ended 9/20/2026.
- Terrain
- Trail
- Organizer
- Aidan's Heart Foundation
- Registration
- Open
From the official race website, checked 2026-09-30. 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 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.
Participants are encouraged to fundraise to further the cause. You can create a personal fundraising page, invite friends and family to support you, or join a fundraising team. Even if you're not running or walking, you can still contribute by fundraising or making a donation. Every dollar raised helps Aidan's Heart provide vital training, place AEDs, screen young hearts, and improve community preparedness for sudden cardiac arrest.
The event offers a 5K run, a 1-mile walk, and kids' races. It is the flagship fundraising event for Aidan's Heart Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting youth against sudden cardiac death and making communities heart-safe.
Who it's for
This event is suitable for runners and walkers of all levels, including families. The 5K is chip-timed for competitive runners, while the 1-mile walk is more relaxed. Kids' races are also available.
What to expect
- The 5K is chip-timed, and results will be available online and on-site.
- 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.
- Strollers are welcome for the 1-mile walk but not permitted in the 5K run.
- Parking is available in municipal lots near Planet Fitness or Kerr Park, with a short walk to the Struble trailhead.
- Dogs are not permitted on the trail for the safety of participants.
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 if signed up by 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?+
Regular registration for the 5K run is $35 and for the 1-mile walk is $25. Student/Senior and virtual options have different pricing. Prices increase by $5 on race day. Please check the official registration page for full details.
How can I register for the event?+
You can register online through the official registration page 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.
Are dogs allowed at the event?+
No, dogs are not permitted on the trail for the safety of participants.
Are strollers allowed?+
Strollers are welcome for the 1-mile walk but are not permitted in the 5K run.
Registration is handled by the official event organizer
Know a local group? Host a community run in Downingtown
