Races

2026 Mutt Strut 5k

This 5k walk/run aims to raise funds for the Elizabeth “Betty” Walton endowment so that more students can benefit from her memorial scholarship annually. Elizabeth “Betty” Walton had a profoundly inspirational and impactful career as an Intelligence Analyst. Her work ethic, intellect, persona, and dedication to protecting the nation were unparalleled. It is with great sadness that Betty lost her battle with cancer in 2018. In her memory, JMU Intelligence Analysis (IA) professor and husband of Betty, Dr. Tim Walton, established an annual scholarship. Each year, the scholarship is awarded to a highly motivated IA student from an underrepresented population within the IA program, following in Betty’s footsteps. You can learn more about the JMU Intelligence Analysis Program here: https://www.jmu.edu/cise/intelligence-analysis/index.shtml Rory McDermott- the 2024 scholarship recipient- has partnered with fellow IA Student Ambassadors and the Women in Intelligence and National Security Club

Frazier Quarry 5K

Smoothie Man's Mud Mile

The Valley 4th RUN is home to the Slip 'n Slide Finish Line and the only chip timed race in the Shenandoah Valley that lets you pick your distance (1.5 mile, 5K, or 10K). Plus, it's a great opportunity to run/walk/roll through the streets of downtown Harrisonburg on the greatest holiday of the year.

Escape to the tranquility of the Shenandoah Mountains for this ultimate 4-day triathlon training getaway. The Shenandoah Valley is close to major east coast cities, but offers a serene and inspiring training environment.  Here is what our experienced professional athletes and coaches have on tap:+ Pool swim session at JMU to refine your stroke and improve your proficiency. + Elevate your open water swimming with expert coaching at Arrowhead Lake.  Sunday's OW swim will be on a buoyed course, and will refine your technique, sighting, pack swimming, and start positioning.+ Gain confidence and conquer the mountains on your bicycle. Our expert coaching will empower you to improve your climbing and descending skills as you explore the scenic creeks and breathtaking vistas of the Appalachian ridgeline.+ Escape the pavement and embrace the trails. Our runs on double and single track combine adventure with traditional triathlon training, offering a refreshing alternative to

VA Momentum and JMU Valor have teamed up to bring back a meaningful 5K on campus at James Madison University to commemorate September 11th and honor student heroes. Harrisonburg community members and JMU students, faculty + staff are all invited to a unifying event open to all skill levels of walkers and runners. The 5K is chip-timed and utilizes a scenic route on east campus. The start/finish line is located directly behind the Festival Conference and Student Center. Parking is available for those without a JMU parking permit.

Harrisonburg Half Marathon

The Rocktown Turkey Trot is the perfect mix of fun and fitness on Thanksgiving morning. The four mile course is designed with all skill levels in mind - and it's ideal for first-timers and veteran runners alike. The Turkey Trot is a professionally timed event (you'll receive a race bib and chip timing device at packet pickup), but don't let that deter you from coming dressed in your favorite Thanksgiving-themed running gear! The Gobble Gobble Kids Dash is a can't-miss tradition for kids on Thanksgiving. They'll be energized by the roar of the crowd and feel the freedom of wind in their face as they run through the closed-down streets of Court Square in Harrisonburg. Kids Dash participants will finish prior to the start of the Rocktown Turkey Trot.

The New Year's Eve Glow Run 5K presented by Generations Crossing is the hottest way to ring in the new year with friends and family in Harrisonburg, VA. Enjoy a 5K course at Heritage Oaks Golf Course along the beautiful cart paths as the sun sets on the year. Even better, all participants receive glow paraphernalia to help light up the course (participants are also encouraged to bring your own headlamps & flashlights) Wheelchair racers, strollers and leashed pets are welcome.