On September 26, 2026, the Sarah Strong 5K and 1 Mile Kids Fun Run takes place in Elkhart, Indiana at 100 N. Elkhart Ave. The event offers a 1-mile distance with a typical start time of 8:30 AM. Entry fees range from $5.00 to $30.00, making it an affordable option for families and runners of all levels. Whether you're traveling for the race or combining it with other plans in the Elkhart area, you'll want accommodation close to the venue for easy morning logistics before the event.
From the Race Organizer
The Sarah Strong Run 5K Run/Walk, and 1 Mile Kids' Fun Run is back again for 2026! This year's event will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026 in downtown Elkhart. All proceeds from the Sarah Strong Run benefit Passionately Purple: The Sarah Crane Foundation, which assists families in the local community whose loved ones are battling cancer. Packet pickup will be held on Friday, September 25, at a time and location to be determined, as well as at the race location on Saturday, September 26, from 7:30 -8:30 AM. The race will start and finish at Bicentennial Park (100 N. Elkhart Ave) in Downtown Elkhart. This is a family-friendly event! Strollers are permitted and welcomed on the course. Due to liability, no dogs are allowed. All fitness levels are welcome to come run competitively or walk leisurely with a group of friends. Medals are given to the top 3 finishers in each age divison as well as awards for the top three overall male and female finishers. Race Day Parking: The lot at Bicentennial Park will be closed off for the race start and finish. There is ample parking available across the street at Hacienda or at Beacon Health & Fitness. ABOUT PASSIONATELY PURPLE: Sarah Crane was a sophomore at Elkhart Memorial High School (in Elkhart, Indiana) and was full of Charger Pride. A letter winner in Track and actively involved in Cross Country, Drill Team and Dance, Sarah always maintained a positive attitude in life, sports and her academics. On July 10th 2013, that positive attitude became critically important as she was diagnosed with Stage-4 Colon Cancer; an extremely rare form of cancer for someone her age with the colon, liver, lungs and bowels affected and requiring cancer treatments consisting of surgeries and ongoing chemotherapy. While most would have given up or huddled in fear, Sarah stood strong and vowed to win this battle. Sarah refused to back down or surrender. The slogan SARAHSTRONG is where this was born. It was her mantra and focus during this difficult process. Purple represents not only the fight against all cancers but is Sarah’s favorite color. Unfortunately for us, Sarah's battle ended on December 7, 2013. With Sarah's passing and still an entire community still rallying, the Crane family knew they had to do something and that is when the foundation was born. The foundation hosts several fundraising events to help aid in annual scholarships at Elkhart High School, and provide supplies, counseling and other items for local families who are also battling cancer.
Hotels Near This Race
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Sarah Strong 5K and 1 Mile Kids Fun Run 2026 — Elkhart, IN
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for September 26.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Elkhart, IN.
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 Sarah Strong 5K and 1 Mile Kids Fun Run 2026 — Elkhart, IN?
Sarah Strong 5K and 1 Mile Kids Fun Run 2026 — Elkhart, IN takes place on September 26, 2026. The race is held in Elkhart, Indiana.
Where is Sarah Strong 5K and 1 Mile Kids Fun Run 2026 — Elkhart, IN held?
Sarah Strong 5K and 1 Mile Kids Fun Run 2026 — Elkhart, IN is held at 100 N. Elkhart Ave in Elkhart, Indiana.
Where can I find hotels near Sarah Strong 5K and 1 Mile Kids Fun Run 2026 — Elkhart, IN?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Elkhart. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
