We can't wait to see you for the 2026 Freedom 5k! Below you can find some final updates and information about the event. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out! 

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Event Date and Start Times

The race will take place on the morning of July 4. The 5k and 1k start and finish on N Yale Ave, on the east side of Memorial Park (840 N Indian Hill Blvd, Claremont, CA).

• 1K Kid’s Run: 7:30 AM

• 5K Race: 8:00 AM

Please plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before the start of your scheduled race time! If you arrive late you run the risk of missing the event. 

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Packet Pickup  

Participants in this year's event have three opportunities to get their bib and race shirt: 

• Thursday (7/2) - 4:30-7:00pm @ Claremont Craft Ales: Grab your bib and a cold beverage to kick off the holiday weekend in style! (Address: 1420 N Claremont Blvd #204c). Please park on Andrew Dr. for this pickup window!

• Friday (7/3) - 4:30-7:00pm @ Memorial Park: On Friday evening you can swing by Memorial Park to grab your bib just steps from the starting line. 

• Race Morning (7/4) - 6:00-7:30am @ Memorial Park: You can also pick up your bib on the morning of the event. If you choose this option, please arrive early! Registration closes strictly at 7:30 AM, and arriving late means running the risk of missing the event.

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5k Course Overview

The 2026 Freedom 5K will follow a new route this year, utilizing the same course as the 2025 Claremont Turkey Trot but running it in reverse. The race will still start and finish at Memorial Park and uses many of the same roads as the previous course, just with a few small tweaks. You can still look forward to a fast first half as you head out, and a more challenging second half as you make your way up College Avenue toward the park (a little patience early on pays off!) 

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Parking Info

Street parking is available throughout the neighborhood, just make sure you’re not blocking any driveways and keep an eye out for posted restrictions. You are likely better off staying on the west side of Indian Hill Blvd to avoid race course closures.

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Weather & Hydration

This race happens in July. It's important to always to monitor the weather and stay hydrated! 

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Lining Up at the Start

If you are participating in the 5k, please be mindful of where you line up at the start. There will be signage and volunteers to help guide you, but for everyone's safety the first few rows should be limited to people planning to go 7:00/mile pace or faster. If you plan to walk the course, we ask that you start toward the back. Thanks for your cooperation in keeping things safe and smooth for everyone!

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Awards & Medals

• All Kid’s Run 1k finishers will receive a medal at the finish line.

• Top 3 finishers in every 5K age group will receive a medal as well!

  • Age groups: 14 & under, 15–19, and then every 5-year increment up to 90+

• There will be an awards area in the park, where you can go grab your prize between 9 and 10am. There is no formal award ceremony.  

Memorial Park Dog Policy

While well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome to join you out on the race course, please note that dogs are strictly prohibited inside Memorial Park. If you plan to bring a furry friend, please ensure they stay on the perimeter roads and sidewalks surrounding the park area and do not cross into the park itself.