Running of the Elk

The Running of the Elk is a 10K, 5K and Kids Run that takes place in Elk Grove, CA. The event exists to encourage fitness and a healthy lifestyle while at the same time raising money for the Elk Grove Youth Sports Foundation youth sports scholarship fund, a nonprofit organization. 

Start/Finish location and start times are pending final approval and subject to change. 

Race day is Sunday, October 17, 2021.

2021 Start Times:

• 8:00 am - 10K
• 8:15 am - 5K
• 10:00 am - Kids Run

Packet Pick Up: Held Saturday, October 16, 2021 at Fleet Feet Sports - Elk Grove, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Race day pick up is also offered, however to ensure you receive your desired shirt size, we suggest attending Saturday's pick up. ID is not required for packet pick up and you may have a friend or family member pick your packet up on your behalf. Packets include your race bib number with timing chip, t-shirt, and goody bag. 

Divisions offered for 2021: 5K (3.1 miles), 10K (6.2 miles) and Kids Fun Runs for 12 and under (1/2 and 1/4 mile). This race will be held IN PERSON, however, for those wishing to participate virtually, we are offering a virtual 5K and 10K option. The deadline to register for the virtual division is October 14th. Virtual runners and walkers may choose to pick up their packet in-person on Saturday, 10/16/21 from 10am-6pm at Fleet Feet Elk Grove, or have the packet (bib, shirt, and medal) mailed for an additional $10.00. Packets will be mailed from 10/19 to 10/31/21 via US Mail. 

Entry Fees: Entry fees for the 5K/10K are $37 through 9/1, $42 from 9/2-10/14, $47 10/15-10/16 and $50.00 on race morning. There is a $10.00 discount for youth (ages 1 to 17) in the 5K and 10K. Kids Fun Run entry fees (kids ages 0-12 may participate) are: $15 by 10/14, $18 10/15-10/16, and $21.00 on race morning.  There is an online service charge in addition to the above listed entry fees, the amount of which will appear on the payment screen.

Refund Policy: All entry fees are non-refundable and non-transferable and may not be transferred to another person. The event will take place rain or shine and refunds are not provided for no-shows. Please make note that the event committee reserves the right to modify, postpone or cancel the event without providing refunds if there exists a significant health or safety hazard (e.g., pandemic, wildfire/smoke) that would make staging the event dangerous for the athletes, volunteers, sponsors, community, or staff, as decided by either the event committee or dictated by local government authorities. 

Entry Includes: Race bib, disposable chip timing and age group award eligibility for the in-person 5K10K  (no awards for the virtual divisions), microfiber t-shirt (Kids Fun Run to receive a cotton t-shirt), and race-specific custom finisher medal. Post-race we invite you to enjoy our vendor expo. 

Parking: Parking is available in the west lot, located in front of the Elk Grove Aquatic Center. Enter off Big Horn Blvd.

New routes: We are in the process of obtaining approval for brand-new routes that will start and finish at District56 in the heart of Elk Grove. District56 is a beautiful venue and we are thrilled at the opportunity to host the 2021 event here!

Note: Half Marathon distance will not take place in 2021 due to construction on Elk Grove streets. 

Volunteers: Volunteers are needed for a variety of positions on race weekend. Sign up here.