5K for Aidan J. Run & 1 Mile Walk for Heart-Safe Communities - Kids Races (Ages 2-11)
Race facts
- Start time
- 8:00 AM
- Distances
- 5K, 1 Mile, Kids Races
- Entry fee
- from 15Prices increase $5 on Race Day. Youth/Student/Senior pricing available.
- Terrain
- Trail
- Organizer
- Aidan's Heart Foundation
- Registration
- Open
From the official race website, checked 2026-10-02. Official page
External Event
Distance
Unknown
Pace
All paces
Terrain
Trail
Difficulty
Easy
About this run
The 5K for Aidan J. Run & 1 Mile Walk for Heart-Safe Communities is the 14th annual flagship event supporting Aidan's Heart Foundation. This event aims to prevent sudden cardiac death in youth and empower communities to be heart-safe. Funds raised contribute to CPR and AED training, AED placement, heart screenings, and developing comprehensive cardiac safety plans for schools. The foundation's advocacy efforts have helped pass state legislation for AED funding and guidelines in Pennsylvania schools.
Participants are encouraged to fundraise alongside their registration to further support the mission. Creating a personal fundraising page allows individuals to invite friends and family to contribute, with all proceeds directly benefiting the foundation's lifesaving work. Whether running, walking, or solely fundraising, every contribution helps turn Aidan's legacy into action and ensures the continuation of efforts to save young lives.
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.
What to expect
- Packet pickup details and the option to get a free t-shirt with registration (if registered by 9/20/2026) should be confirmed on the official registration page.
- Arrive early, as check-in and race-day registration open at 8:00 AM, with the 5K starting at 9:15 AM and the 1-mile walk at 9:20 AM.
- The 5K is chip-timed, while the 1-mile walk uses non-chip bibs. Results for the 5K will be available on-site and online.
- The 5K course is on the Struble Trail. Strollers are welcome in the 1-mile walk but not permitted in the 5K run.
- Parking is available in municipal lots near Planet Fitness or Kerr Park, requiring a short walk to the Struble Trailhead at The Ponds/Victims Memorial Park.
Good to know
- The event takes place on the Struble Trail, starting at The Ponds/Victims Memorial Park in Downingtown, PA.
- Dogs are not permitted on the trail for the safety of participants.
- Race-day payments can be made via Apple Pay, credit card, cash, or check payable to Aidan’s Heart Foundation.
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 5K for Aidan J. Run & 1 Mile Walk?+
It is the 14th annual fundraising event for Aidan's Heart Foundation, supporting their mission to prevent sudden cardiac death in youth and promote heart safety in communities.
When and where is the event?+
The event is on Saturday, October 3, 2026, in Downingtown, PA, starting at The Ponds / Kardon Park – Struble Trailhead.
What distances are offered?+
The event includes a 5K Run, a 1 Mile Walk, and Kids Races. Virtual options are also available.
What are the registration fees?+
Regular registration for adults (23-64) is $35 for the 5K run and $25 for the 1-mile walk. Student/Senior (5-22 and 65+) pricing is $25 for the 5K and $15 for the walk. Virtual options are $5 less. Prices increase by $5 on race day. Free t-shirts were available with registration by 9/20/2026 but may be available at the event.
Are there any awards?+
Yes, there are cash prizes for the top overall 5K finishers, place medals for age-group winners, awards for top fundraisers, and finisher medals for children in the Kids Races.
Can I bring my dog?+
No, for the safety of participants, dogs are not permitted on the trail.
Are strollers allowed?+
Strollers are welcome in the 1 Mile Family Walk but are not permitted in the 5K Run due to limited trail space.
How can I register?+
You can register through the official event page at http://www.5kforAidanJ.com.
Registration is handled by the official event organizer
Know a local group? Host a community run in Downingtown
