Clay County Young Life “Hula Hustle” 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run 2026

The 14th Annual Clay County Young Life “Hula Hustle” 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run 2026 is a high-energy, mission-driven athletic event held in Orange Park, Florida. Scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 8:00 AM EDT, the race starts and finishes at bestbet Orange Park. This event serves as a critical fundraiser for Clay County Young Life, a global organization dedicated to supporting teenagers by providing them with friendship, adventure, and a sense of significance through weekly gatherings and summer camp opportunities.

The "Hula Hustle" features a tropical-themed atmosphere where participants are encouraged to embrace the fun, community-focused spirit of the event. All registered 5K participants receive a finisher’s medal and a commemorative T-shirt. For those unable to attend the physical course on Park Avenue, a virtual 5K option is available, allowing supporters to contribute to the cause from any location.

Orange Park is a prominent town in Clay County, Florida, located along the western banks of the St. Johns River. With a population of approximately 9,000 residents in the town proper and a much larger suburban population in the surrounding county area, it serves as a key residential hub for the Greater Jacksonville metropolitan region. According to U.S. Census data, the demographic profile of Orange Park is approximately 66.5% White (non-Hispanic), 16.2% Black or African American, 10.8% Hispanic or Latino, and 3.9% Asian. The area is characterized by a strong military presence due to its proximity to Naval Air Station Jacksonville.

The local culture in Clay County is defined by a deep-seated commitment to youth development and community-based faith initiatives. Young Life plays a central role in this landscape, offering tailored programs for diverse groups, including WyldLife (junior high), YoungLives (teen moms), and Capernaum (youth with disabilities). The "Hula Hustle" is a hallmark of the town's social calendar, where the philanthropic spirit of North Florida is on full display. Residents frequently gather for these events to ensure that the region's teens have safe, engaging environments to grow and find mentorship, reflecting the town's emphasis on family and future generations.

The impact of the 2026 race is already substantial, with 73 registered participants as of early April. The funds raised are vital for sustaining the weekly gatherings that serve hundreds of local teens. By supporting summer camp scholarships, the "Hula Hustle" provides many students with life-changing experiences outside their daily routines, fostering personal growth and leadership skills.

For the runners and walkers on May 2nd, the experience is designed to be as rewarding as it is impactful. The course near bestbet Orange Park offers a flat, accessible route suitable for PR-seekers and families alike. As the countdown to race day continues, the Clay County community prepares to "hustle" for their youth, proving that fourteen years of tradition can create a lasting legacy of support and significance for the teenagers of Orange Park.