In South Texas, a 5K can be about much more than beating your best time. Over the next few months, runners and walkers across the Rio Grande Valley can lace up for causes ranging from addiction recovery and suicide prevention to ending violence against women.
And you don’t necessarily have to be a serious runner. Several events welcome walkers and children and families, with everything from one-mile options to an evening race for anyone who isn’t exactly excited about a 6 a.m. start.
Here are seven upcoming RGV races supporting something bigger than a finish-line medal.
Run for Recovery RGV
You don’t need to have experienced addiction to show up for this race. Run for Recovery is open to people in recovery, those supporting a loved one and anyone who wants to stand for second chances.
Proceeds benefit local recovery and wellness programs. The evening event will also feature recovery resources, music, food, awards, and giveaways. Register here.
- When: Sunday, Sept. 20, at 6 p.m.
- Where: Edinburg Municipal Park, 714 S. Raul Longoria Road
- Race: Chip-timed 5K run or walk
- Cost: $30, plus registration fees
Samuel Shaer Suicide Awareness 5K
The Samuel Shaer Suicide Awareness 5K returns for its fourth year and honors Samuel Shaer, who died by suicide in May 2023. Proceeds support a counseling fund that helps individuals and families access professional counseling.
“We host this annual 5K so those who are struggling with mental health, carrying grief, anxiety, depression, or hopelessness know they do not have to stand alone,” said Jessica Shaer, Samuel’s mother and founder of S.A.M. Connection. Shaer said the organization’s mission is to connect Valley families with counseling and other local resources.
- When: Friday, Oct. 2, at 7:30 p.m.
- Where: Tres Lagos, 4350 Tres Lagos Blvd. in McAllen
- Race: 5K
- Cause: Suicide prevention, mental health awareness and access to counseling
Great Strides RGV 5K and Walk
Whether you want a timed race or a more relaxed walk with family, Great Strides offers both.The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s signature fundraiser supports research, specialized care, and advocacy for people living with cystic fibrosis, a genetic disease affecting the lungs and other organs.
- When: Saturday, Oct. 3, the 5K begins at 8 a.m. and the walk at 9 a.m.
- Where: Westside Park, 1000 S. Ware Road in McAllen
- Race: Chip-timed 5K or free one-mile walk
- Cost: $35 for the 5K, free for walkers
Run for a Cause
Run for a Cause takes a broader approach, rather than focusing on one type of cancer it helps South Texas families affected by different forms of the disease.
Organizers say last year’s event raised more than $100,000. This year, the fundraising goal is $125,000.
- When: Saturday, Oct. 24, at 7 a.m.
- Where: 350 W. Ruben M. Torres Blvd in Brownsville
- Race: One-mile fun run/walk, 5K, 10K or virtual race
- Cost: $25 for the one-mile event, $30 for the 5K and $35 for the 10K, virtual options begin at $35
Women Running Violence Out of Town
Women Running Violence Out of Town puts the focus on survivors of violence against women and girls. According to event details, proceeds will benefit local organizations that support survivors of violence against women and girls.
Cost: $30 for individuals, $25 each for teams of six or more and $15 for children
When: Saturday, Nov. 7, kids’ 1K at 7:30 a.m. and 5K at 8:30 a.m.
Where: Precinct 2 Hike and Bike Trail in San Juan
Race: 5K run/walk and kids’ 1K
