THE RACE

Around the World Run

The Friends of Civil Affairs (FOCA) Around the World Run is a running event dedicated to the global mission of Civil Affairs Soldiers and their Families.

The Around the World Run raises money for the FOCA Scholarship Fund that awards merit and needs-based scholarships to spouses and children.

The event will take place live and virtually.

The live 5K race is on September 26th with the 48th International Folk Festival.

For the Virtual Race, participants can run and submit their results anytime and anywhere between September 9th and September 23rd.

Around the World Schedule of Events International Folk Festival

RACE SWAG

*2025 Shirt Shown - New Design Coming Soon!

IN PERSON PARTICIPANTS
An Around the World Run shirt is guaranteed to in-person participants who register by Thursday,  September 16, 2026, and attend the event. Those who register after September 17th can choose from remaining sizes until supplies are gone.

VIRTUAL PARTICIPANTS
Virtual participants can get their shirt at pre-race packet pickup, or choose to have their shirt mailed for a fee.

All race participants in any event can bring proof of registration to the Cape Fear Botanical Garden for a 50% discount on entry between September 24th and September 28th!

RACE COURSE

 

Cape Fear Botanical Garden
536 N. Eastern Blvd.
Fayetteville, NC  28301

The Around the World Run course starts at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden and takes participants on a combination of road, the Cross Creek Linear Park Trail, and the Cape Fear River Trail. The trails are 8-10 feet wide with a few wooden bridges through a beautiful blend of trees, plants and wildlife with spectacular views of the river.

Course Map

AWARDS

AWARDS
5K, 5K Virtual, 10K Virtual

Top 3 Males
Top 3 Females

Top 3 in Age Group, Male & Female:
10 & Under, 11-14,15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70+

LARGEST TEAM AWARD

The largest team of 2026 will recieve a $1000 gift certificate! Participants can compete in multiple events to count towards the team total. 

FURTHEST FROM FORT BRAGG AWARD

The participant who completes their virtual run the furthest from Fort Bragg will receive a print of their choice from the Friends Of Civil Affairs Store!

THE CAUSE

HOW YOUR REGISTRATION MAKES A DIFFERENCE

The Friends of Civil Affairs (FOCA) Around the World Run is a running event dedicated to the global mission of Civil Affairs Soldiers and their families.  The Around the World Run raises money for the FOCA Scholarship Fund that awards merit and needs-based scholarships to spouses and children.

Learn More