“FREEDOM STARTS HERE" 10K, 5K, 1-Mile Run

FREEDOM STARTS HERE" 10K, 5K, 1-Mile Run is more than a race, it’s a run with a purpose.  This charity run will raise awareness and funding for the Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge.  Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge is a faith-centered recovery program for those struggling with life-controlling addiction. Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge offers long-term residential recovery programs for men, regional support groups, and the nation's first Military Specialization Program for Veterans and active-duty troops.  
 
Join us as we run together towards recovery, resiliency, and new beginnings! 
 
All proceeds from this event less the operating costs will go to charity.  To learn more please visit the Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge website: About Us - Adult & Teen Challenge Sandhills
 
The event will take place at 8am on Saturday January 10, 2026, and run along the scenic Reservoir Park loop and Whitehall trail in Southern Pines.  The route will be well maintained and well-marked.  Parking will be available at Sandhills Community College near the Sports Complex at the 395 Wilbur Blvd, Pinehurst NC, 28374 https://maps.app.goo.gl/6ANVHGyVcdQMvAmm7

In the case of winter weather, we will hold the event at the same location January 17, 2026. 

The event will host three race categories: 

• 10K Run/Walk
• 5K Run/Walk
• 1-Mile Run/Walk

Packet pickup will be the evening prior, Friday January 09, 2026, from 6:30-7:30 PM at the Sandhills Horticulture Gardens located at 3245 Airport Rd. Pinehurst NC, 2374 https://maps.app.goo.gl/kDCBiDyqCm9NPMH96

Same day registration and packet pickup will be available Saturday June 10, from 6:30am-7:30am.

The event is intended to build community wellness and resiliency while raising awareness and funds for a great cause.  The event organizer will have aid stations set up at the start finish line and along the route with water, Gatorade, and snacks. Participants can set up personal tents, tables, and aid stations in the park area by the start finish line.  

There will be prizes for the top male and female in each event category. 

Things to do for families and spectators. Reservoir Park offers plenty of scenic hiking trails, playgrounds, and fishing.  The nearby towns of Southern Pines, Aberdeen, and Pinehurst offer plenty of shopping, restaurants, and coffee shops. There will also be food trucks and activities on site. 

Weather: January weather in Moore County is typically cooler in the mornings with temperatures in the mid-30s and mild to pleasant by mid-day with temperatures in the mid-50s.  warm to hot with pleasant morning temperatures. 

All participants will receive an official race t-shirt and finishers medal.  T-shirts cannot be guaranteed for registrations after Jan 01, 2026.