North Alabama Chick-fil-A Race Series: Athens 10K/5K/Fun Run

Event

A hometown classic with big energy.

For more than a decade, runners across North Alabama have circled one date on their calendar—the annual North Alabama Chick‑fil‑A Race Series stop in Athens. It’s the race where the whole community shows up, the streets fill with cheering supporters, and runners from all across North Alabama test themselves on the 10K and 5K routes.

And yes… the prize everyone talks about is back. A YEAR’S WORTH OF FREE CHICK‑FIL‑A for our top finishers. That’s bragging rights and waffle‑fry glory all in one.

The race morning vibe is unbeatable. Local sponsors and vendors line the START/FINISH area, turning the event into a full‑on festival. Kids get their own moment to shine in the Fun Run, and the legendary Chick‑fil‑A Cows roam the course area for high‑fives, photos, and to help fuel the cow‑powered hype.

Whether you’re chasing a PR, jogging with friends, or cheering on your little runners, this is one of Athens’ most beloved traditions for a reason. Fast courses, big crowds, great food, and a community that shows up stronger every single year.

Run hard. Have fun. Eat More Chicken.

Course

USATF Certified 10K and 5K courses through Athens. Certification # and GPX files to be released closer to race day

Amenities, Features, and Highlights

SWAG

All participants receive a short-sleeve race shirt, sponsor filled race packet, and finisher photos with the Chick-fil-A cows

Food

We will have FREE Chick-fil-A on-site for some extra race morning fuel

Medals and Prizes

Finisher medals for all participants. Awards for 10K and 5K Overall Male/Female, Masters (40+) Male/Female, GrandMasters Male/Female (50+), Senior GrandMasters (60+), and 1st, 2nd, 3rd Male/Female Age Groups (12U, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+)

Aid Station

There will be two aid and recovery stations, one aid station will be available at the START/FINISH line area and one on the course. The START/FINISH line are aid station will have hydration, first aid, snacks, and electrolytes.

Additional Information

Packet Pick-up

Early: 2:00-6:00 PM Friday, May 8th at Solid Rock Running Company in Athens

Race Day: Saturday, May 9th 7:00 AM

Race Day Schedule

Packet Pick-up and In-person Registration: 6:00-6:45 AM

Announcements and 10K/5K call to start: 6:45 AM

10K/5K Race Start: 7:00 AM

Fun Run Start: 8:30 AM

Awards: Awards Available at Finish -- there will not be a formal Awards Ceremony and will be available when you finish if you place in an awards group

FAQ

Where is the race? Athens, Alabama

When is the event? Saturday, May 9th, 2026 - 7:00 am CT RACE START

What time should I arrive? If you can't make it to early packet pick-up on Friday, May 8th, please plan to arrive prior to 6:15 AM to leave yourself adequate time to get check-in, receive your runner packet, and get warmed up

Can I register on race day? Yes -- we will allow race day registrations up until 20 minutes before race start, but please arrive early as there will be a line and we will have to shut-off registrations at 6:40 AM to support our planned start time

Where do I get my packet? Early Packet Pickup for the Race will be held at Solid Rock Running Company from 2:00-6:00 pm on Friday, May 8th or you can pick up your race packet starting at 6:00 am race day morning.

I‘m part of a group that’s running together. Can I pick up everyone’s bib? Yes! All you’ll need is their full name and everyone will be ready to take-off on Race Day!

Are t-shirts included with registration? Yes, if you register before the t-shirt deadline your exclusive race tee in the size you order is 100% guaranteed! Race T-shirt design will be announced closer to race day!

When is the deadline to register and be guaranteed a t-shirt? End of day April 9th. After the deadline, shirts will be available in limited quantities/sizes as you register and can be selected while you check out on a first-come, first-served basis while inventory lasts.

Are there medals? Yes! Prizes and awards will be handed out for the top overall female and male runners, and top overall Masters (40+), GrandMasters (50+), and Senior GrandMasters (60+) divisions and 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place medals are awarded to the top three female and male finishers in each of the Age Group division. 

What are the age groups? 1-12, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+

Where do I park? FREE Parking is available on-site

Are strollers allowed? Yes, strollers are welcome at the back of the pack.

Are bikes, hoverboards, scooters, skateboards, push bikes, unicycles or wagons allowed on course?
We’re sorry, but only runners, joggers, walkers, baby strollers/joggers, restrained pets and wheelchairs are allowed

Are pets allowed? Yes! Well-socialized and leashed dogs are welcome at the back of the pack

Is the race timed? Yes, this event is professionally RFID chip timed by Race Ready Events

Are the 10K or 5K courses certified? Yes, both of the courses are USATF certified

Do the courses have hills? Yes, both courses have slight hills in the 6-8% grade range.

Do I have to be an experienced runner? No — all ages and paces are welcome!

I’d like to participate. Can I just walk? Absolutely! We politely ask that are walkers register to participate in the 5K course. We always have people who want to walk, so you will not be alone! 

I have more questions! Please drop us a line and we'd love to help!