Important Information
Due to restrictions by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and the United States Space Force; participation in the In-Person races is limited to US Citizens of 12 years of age and older. By registering for the in-person races, you are consenting to a federal background check.
Only Registered Participants will be granted access to the LLF Runway. No Spectators are allowed.
Event Description
The Gateway to Space is a 5K/10K is held on the Space Florida Launch and Landing Facility (formerly known as the Shuttle Landing Facility) and benefits the American Cancer Society. The American Cancer Society, is on a mission to free the world from cancer. Until then, they fund and conduct research, share expert information, support patients, and spread the word about prevention. All so you can live longer — and better. For the first time in history, the American Cancer Society's mission is at risk. Fundraising is not required but is highly encouraged. Mindy from Mindy & Company on Lite Rock 99.3 will be hosting the event.
Packet Pickup:
Early Packet Pickup - TBA
Saturday, March 7th, 2026 @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
6:00 AM - 7:00 AM
Race Day:
Saturday, March 7, 2026 @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Kennedy Space Center, SR 405, Kennedy Space Center, FL US 32953
5:30 AM: Parking Opens at the KSC Visitor Complex
5:45 AM: Check-In/Packet Pickup & Security Opens at the KSC Visitor Complex.
7:00 AM: KSC Parking Closes and Last Bus to Shuttle Landing Facility Departs
8:00 AM: 5K/10K Start
Amenities
- Complimentary race shirt (Guaranteed shirt by Jan 24, 2026 registration)
- Finisher Medals
- Costume Contest
- Recognition of Top Fundraisers
5K & 10K Awards: *Participants can each ONLY get 1 Award.
- 1st, 2nd, 3rd Overall Male & Female
- 1st Masters Male & Female
- Age Group awards - 1st, 2nd, 3rd Male & Female
**Due to the fundraising nature of this event, if circumstances outside of our control prevent us from racing in person all participants will be moved to the virtual race. No refunds will be issued. If you choose not to attend in-person, your race registration can be transferred to the Virtual Race through March 1st, 2026. There will be an additional charge to mail race packets if you choose this option.
Registrations cannot be deferred to 2027.
Registration Requirements
Participants will be entering a US military base and restrictions apply. By registering for the in-person races, you are giving your consent to a federal background check. Participants must be a US citizen of 12 years of age or older. ONLY registered participants will be allowed to board the buses out to the LLF, NO spectators.
If the race does not sell out, registration will close five days prior to the race, NO same-day or late registrations.
On Race Day; please arrive with your ID and running attire, any bags or personal belongings may be subject to search.
Races
Gateway to Space 5K
Gateway to Space 10K
Registration will close on March 1 2026, at 11:59 PM.
There is NO In-Person, Same-Day or Late Registration for this race.
Registration Closes In:
The Gateway to Space is a USATF Certified Racecourse
5K USATF Course Certification #FL23017JK
10K USATF Course Certification #FL23016JK
Race Location
Space Florida Launch and Landing Facility
Kennedy Space Center, FL 32899 US
Race Transportation
Race Transportation is provided in partnership with the Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex and is complimentory with Race Registration.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953
Participants will park at the KSC Visitors Complex (free of charge), proceed through security and board the Buses to the Space Florida Launch & Landing Facility.
