Dash for Down Syndrome Distances
Kids Fun Run
A Distance for Everyone!
If a full 5K isn't your thing, that's ok. We have a fun run just for you. But you're feeling the 5K, we also have a little something extra for you (Don't worry, your official race time will still be based on the 5K distance!)
Each person with Down syndrome has an extra (3rd) copy of the 21st chromosome. That's why people across the globe celebrate World Down Syndrome Day on March 21st every year. So - to celebrate that extra chromosome, we run a little extra "dash" at the end of the traditional 5K distance. Runners will be cheered on the "extra" dash by spectators with Down syndrome!
Great Race. Great Swag 🔥
Registration includes a soft-style 5K shirt featuring our iconic Dash logo. Looking to up your shirt game? For only $15, you can upgrade to a long-sleeve performance shirt! Shirts sizes only guaranteed for those who register by March 1.
Returning in 2026 - all 5K finishers will receive a Dash for Down Syndrome custom finisher medal!
That's not all! We'll have special awards for the top 3 overall male and female as well as the top 3 male and female in each age category for the 5K.
A Charlotte Springtime Tradition
The 3-2-1 Dash for Down Syndrome has become a south Charlotte springtime tradition. Thousands of runners and walkers (all are welcome!) have crossed the finish line with us. As we get set to celebrate the 14th year of this wonderful race, we welcome you to join us!
Whether this is your first Dash or your 14th, we invite you to create new memories with us and a few hundred of our running friends on Saturday, March 21st!
Learn More about The Dash
People with Down syndrome have an extra chromosome. That's why this race has a little something extra too! Runners will cross the standard 5K finish line, then go on to run to an extra finish line to represent the extra chromosome in our friends with Down syndrome. Runners will be cheered on the "extra" dash by spectators with Down syndrome!
All runners are invited to join us after the race for the World Down Syndrome Day celebration including food, games and bounce houses!
Stay for the Post-Race Celebration 🎉
The 5K and Fun Run might be the main attraction, but you won't want to miss our awesome post-race celebration. The 3-2-1 Dash for Down Syndrome 5K and Fun Run doubles as a community celebration of World Down Syndrome Day (every March 21st).
So after the race, stick around for some food, entertainment and fun. We'll have all kinds of games and activities for the kids (and the kids at heart)!
What are you waiting for? Sign up today and join us for the 14th 3-2-1 Dash for Down Syndrome 5K & Fun Run!
Kids Fun Run
The Countdown to The Dash is On!
Contact Form
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
Event Location
8835 Blakeney Professional Dr
Charlotte, NC 28277 US
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Your support goes directly to The Down Syndrome Association of Greater Charlotte
The Down Syndrome Association (DSA) of Greater Charlotte is an approved 501(c)3 non-profit, family support organization. The goal of the DSA of Greater Charlotte and its families is to enable individuals with Down syndrome (Ds) to reach their full potential and become respected members of their community. EIN 56-1541529
