The Tri-County Kentucky United Way Spirit 5K costs $20 to $25 to enter and takes place on October 10, 2026, in Bardstown, Kentucky. The race starts at 8:30 AM at the Nelson County Civic Center. This 5K benefits the United Way and draws runners to Nelson County. If you can't make it to the in-person event, a virtual participation option is available, allowing you to complete the distance on your own schedule and location. Whether you're training through peak season or adding a fall 5K to your race calendar, this event offers flexibility alongside supporting a community organization.
From the Race Organizer
Join us for the 2026 Spirit 5K in Bardstown on Saturday, October 10, 2026. Race time is 8:30am EDT. The Tri-County Kentucky United Way Spirit 5K is a certified course that winds its way through Bardstown, Kentucky. All event proceeds benefit the United Way, which helps to improve the quality of life by supporting local health and human service programs and addressing local issues in Marion, Nelson, and Washington counties. Heaven Hill Brands will be providing door prizes and a reception for all participants. Registration $20 per individual, $16 per group of 20 or more, $50 per family of 4 (must be from the same household). Register by September 20th for the guaranteed race t-shirt. The price increases to $25 after September 26th at 11:59 pm with NO RACE SHIRT GUARANTEE. Groups of 10+: $16 (email director@tricountykyuw.org for more information) Family: $50 (maximum of 4 runners, same address required for all in the family) Virtual participation in the Spirit 5k is available. However, virtual participants will not be eligible for awards. Swag can be picked up in Bardstown at a later date. If swag needs to be mailed, shipping will be at an additional cost to the participant. The Spirit 5K is part of the United Way Tri-County Trifecta, along with the Sorghum Festival 5K in Springfield and The Pokey Pig 5K in Lebanon. Cpmplete all three events and receive extra swag for your accomplishment. Spirit 5K Swag All participants will receive a Spirit 5K shirt if registered by September 2oth. And the first 150 runners registered will receive a special swag bag! Awards Overall male and overall female award Top three winners in each category for each – male and female Age categories are: 12 and under 13 – 17 18-24 25-29 30–34 35-39 40–44 45–49 50–54 55–60 61 and older The top three winners in each category for each – male and female - will receive medals. T rophies for 1st place male and female under age 21. Special Heaven Hill award for 21 years old and over to first place winners. Overall male and overall female awards will each receive a $25 gift certificate. The Organization with the most participants will receive the Spirit Award. Packet Pickup Friday, October 9, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm Saturday, October 10, 2026, from 7:15 am to 8:30 am. Nelson County Civic Center, 321 South Third Street, Bardstown All event proceeds to benefit our local United Way and its fight for education, financial stability and health of every person in every community in Marion, Nelson, and Washington Counties.
Hotels Near This Race
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The Tri-County Kentucky United Way Spirit 5K 2026 — Bardstown, KY
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for October 10.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Bardstown, KY.
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
When is The Tri-County Kentucky United Way Spirit 5K 2026 — Bardstown, KY?
The Tri-County Kentucky United Way Spirit 5K 2026 — Bardstown, KY takes place on October 10, 2026. The race is held in Bardstown, Kentucky.
Where is The Tri-County Kentucky United Way Spirit 5K 2026 — Bardstown, KY held?
The Tri-County Kentucky United Way Spirit 5K 2026 — Bardstown, KY is held at Nelson County Civic Center in Bardstown, Kentucky.
Where can I find hotels near The Tri-County Kentucky United Way Spirit 5K 2026 — Bardstown, KY?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Bardstown. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
