16th Annual Leader of the Pack 5K – Forest City, NC 2026

Date
May 2, 2026
Location
Forest City, NC
Venue
McNair Field
Start Time
8:00 AM
Entry Fee
$25.00 – $30.00
Events
Leader of the Pack 5K, DIY 5K
Includes
T-Shirt
Register NowRegistration Open

Registration for the 16th Annual Leader of the Pack 5K runs $25 to $30. The event takes place on May 2, 2026, in Forest City, North Carolina, at McNair Field. The race features a 1-mile distance and starts at 8:00 AM. This shorter format works well for runners looking for a quick, early-morning effort before the day heats up. Forest City is in Rutherford County in the western part of the state, making it accessible for athletes in the Piedmont and mountain regions of North Carolina.

From the Race Organizer
New route for 2026!!!! https://www.strava.com/routes/3474337912105886828 Join us for the 15th Annual Leader of the Pack 5K run/walk - Saturday May 2, 2026 at the McNair Field in Forest City, NC . Not able to join the fun on race day? Sign up for the DIY (Virtual) 5K. You may choose to run/walk any course at your convenience. Registration Rate & Dates Now until April 16, 2026: Adults: $25 , Students [Age 18 & under]: $10 April 17, 2026 until Race Day (May 3, 2025): Adults $30 , Students [Age 18 & under]: $15 DIY 5K : Adults $25 , Students [Age 18 & under]: $10 Race shirt guaranteed if registered by April 18, 2025. After this date, shirts will be available while supplies last on race day. PACKET PICK UP : Friday, May 2, 2025: 3:00-6:00 p.m., McNair Field, 214 McNair Dr. Forest City Race Day: 6:30 a.m. - 8:20 a.m.,McNair Field, 214 McNair Dr. Forest City RACE START : 8:30 a.m. Award Ceremony : Approximately 9:45 a.m. 5K Awards : Top Overall Male/Female (1st, 2nd, & 3rd) Top Masters [40+]

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16th Annual Leader of the Pack 5K – Forest City, NC 2026

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for May 2.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Forest City, NC. A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing. Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it, and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run 5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no additional coverage needed.

  • Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
  • Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
  • Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support
Get a Quote — Faye Travel Insurance

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is 16th Annual Leader of the Pack 5K – Forest City, NC 2026?

16th Annual Leader of the Pack 5K – Forest City, NC 2026 takes place on May 2, 2026. The race is held in Forest City, North Carolina.

Where is 16th Annual Leader of the Pack 5K – Forest City, NC 2026 held?

16th Annual Leader of the Pack 5K – Forest City, NC 2026 is held at McNair Field in Forest City, North Carolina.

Where can I find hotels near 16th Annual Leader of the Pack 5K – Forest City, NC 2026?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Forest City. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.