Running Scared 5K takes place at 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd in Fort Myers, Florida on October 3, 2026. The race offers a 5K distance and is scheduled to start at 8:30 AM. Entry is $35.00. Fort Myers sits on Florida's southwest coast, making it a accessible destination for runners traveling to compete. If you're heading to this race, plan your accommodation near the venue to minimize morning travel time before the early start. The fall timing means you'll experience typical Fort Myers October conditions, so check the local forecast closer to race day to pack accordingly.
From the Race Organizer
Join us for the 2026 Running Scared 5K – Pumpkin Challenge on Saturday, October 3rd, 2026 at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU)! This year we’re switching things up with a morning race starting at 8:30 AM, bringing the same high-energy fun to an exciting new location. Lace up your running shoes and get ready for a race that supports an incredible cause — all proceeds benefit Special Olympics Florida. But remember — this is not your ordinary 5K… this is the Pumpkin Challenge! Are you ready to test your strength and endurance? In the Pumpkin Challenge, you won’t just run the course — you’ll carry a pumpkin along the way! At the start of the race, you’ll have the option to choose from pumpkins placed at various points throughout the course. Smaller pumpkins near the start must be carried the longest distance. As you move along the course, the pumpkins get bigger — but the distance you carry them gets shorter. Will you go light and long, heavy and short, or find the perfect balance in between? The choice is yours! And yes — the pumpkin you carry is yours to keep as you get ready for fall. In addition to the race, participants can enjoy a fun, festive atmosphere with community activities and post-race excitement. It’s a morning filled with fitness, laughter, and purpose. Race Details Saturday, October 3rd, 2026 Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) Start Time: 8:30 AM 5K Awards Overall Male & Female – 1st, 2nd, 3rd Age Groups (awards based on net chip time): 0–10 | 11–19 | 20–29 | 30–39 | 40–49 | 50–59 | 60–69 | 70+ Top 3 Male & Female in each category will be awarded. All participants will receive a Running Scared t-shirt and a finisher’s medal. Packet Pickup Packet pickup will be held at Fleet Feet Fort Myers and on race morning prior to the start Friday October 2nd 2026 at Fleet Feet Fort Myers 5:00-7:00pm Race Moring at FGCU 7:30am-8:15am
Hotels Near This Race
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for October 3.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Fort Myers, FL.
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
Running Scared 5K 2026 — Fort Myers, FL takes place on October 3, 2026. The race is held in Fort Myers, Florida.
Where is Running Scared 5K 2026 — Fort Myers, FL held?
Running Scared 5K 2026 — Fort Myers, FL is held at 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd in Fort Myers, Florida.
Where can I find hotels near Running Scared 5K 2026 — Fort Myers, FL?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Fort Myers. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
