What is there to do at Champions of Hope?
Champions of Hope has something for anyone who wants to join in the fight against cancer. This family-friendly (and pet-friendly) event features entertainment, food trucks, vendors, and a Kids Zone. The day’s activities include a competitive 5K and 10K, a one-mile walk, entertainment, an Awards Ceremony. Doors open on Saturday morning at 6:30am. The 5K/10K race begins promptly at 8am.
Is there another event happening the day before the race?
Around 7pm on Friday, October 20, the Celebration of Light Ceremony will begin to support, remember, and encourage those in our lives and community who have faced a cancer diagnosis. Join us after you pick up your registration packet to browse the vendors, and enjoy music, food, and fellowship before the ceremony begins.
When and where is Packet Pick Up?
Early Packet Pick Up will begin on Friday, October 20 at 4pm at The Plant. Registered participants are welcome to stop by to pick up their event t-shirt and bib number. If you are participating as a member of a team, please contact your Team Captain for information about where to pick up your t-shirt and bib.
Where is the 5K/10K route?
Is there a sweeping time for the 10K?
Walking participants should register for the one-mile route in order to ensure the safety of all participants. We ask that all participants who are competing in the 5K or 10K route train to be able to complete either course before 10:00am.
Where do I park?
There will be no parking available at The Plant! Below is a parking map of different parking lots downtown that will be available. Also, take note of the drop-off location for those unable to walk distances.
What is the theme for this year's event?
This year's theme for Champions of Hope is Champions Living In Color! Participants are invited to wear any and all of the various colors of cancer to the event to symbolize our unity of purpose and celebrate survivors. There are a variety of colors participants can wear to symbolize cancer awareness. Each color represents a different type of cancer and the fight against it. Wear one or wear them all!
*The event is not a color run.
Where can I register?
Online registration is available through this website. Registration is $30 for Molly's Mile and the 5K, and $35 to compete in the 10K. Register by September 15 to guarantee your event t-shirt. On October 16, the registration fees will increase by $5. Online registration closes on Wednesday, October 18. Participants who wish to register after October 18 must register at The Plant on Friday or Saturday.
Who can participate?
Participants of all ages can register for the one-mile route: Molly's Mile, renamed in honor of the 2023 Champions of Hope Honoree: Molly White. Registrants must be 10 years or older on race day to participate in the 5K or 10K. Children are welcome to attend for fun and high-energy activities, and don't forget to bring your pup to the Paws Fur Hope Hydration Station!
Is Champions of Hope a pet-friendly event?
Yes! Pet dog participants must be dog-friendly, kid-friendly and adult-friendly, and all dogs must be kept on leashes no longer than 6' at all times. Sponsored by Wags and Whiskers of the Wiregrass, check in at the Paws fur Hope Hydration Station at the event to enter your pup in the "Best Dressed Dog" costume contest, and to check out the treats and water stations to keep your fur babies hydrated!
Why Support Champions of Hope?
Raising more than one million dollars since its inception in 2008, proceeds from Champions of Hope helps expand cancer services and programs offered by Southeast Health. Thanks to the generous support of our community, some of the services and programs Champions has been able to fund include Cancer Navigation Services, 3D mammography, customized information reference binders for newly diagnosed patients, post-mastectomy comfort kits, and much more.
What if the event gets cancelled?
The race will take place in light rain. In the event of a cancellation, the races will be held virtually. All participants will be contacted via email with instructions. We do not offer refunds for registration.
I can't attend, but can I make a donation in honor of or in memory of someone?
Yes, donations are accepted through this website. You can also dedicate a luminaria to honor a loved one and to help enhance the cancer services and programs in our community. After dark on Friday, October 20, the Celebration of Light ceremony will begin to support, remember, and encourage those in our community who have faced a cancer diagnosis.
For more information, please call the Southeast Health Foundation at (334) 673-4150.
