2026 5K9 Dog Jog: Saving Lives, One Dog at a Time

Run, Walk, or Wag for our Veterans!

A fun-filled morning for a life-changing cause. Join Vets to Vets United, Inc. at the premier WakeMed Soccer Park Cross-Country Course. Whether you are a competitive runner, a casual walker, or a professional cheerleader, we want you—and your furry friends—there with us! Register here.

WATCH: The 5K9 Dog Jog in Action!

Our Mission: Two Lives, One Bond

Vets to Vets United, Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to helping Veterans suffering from physical and emotional disabilities. We match them with rescued shelter dogs and provide the intensive training required to become life-saving service animals.

• The Cost: It takes $25,000 to complete a single service dog training program.

• The Goal: 100% of proceeds help cover these costs so our wounded warriors can focus on healing and the life-saving bond of a service animal. Your participation saves lives!

  
  

The Course: What to Expect

WakeMed Soccer Park Cross-Country Course 101 Soccer Park Dr, Cary, NC 27511

Experience one of the best cross-country courses in the South!

• The Terrain: A beautiful, scenic mix of open rolling fields and wide natural trails.

• Skill Level: Perfect for all ages, from elite runners to casual walkers.

• Dog Friendly: The wide paths are perfect for you and your leashed furry friend to navigate comfortably.

VIEW THE FULL RACE COURSE MAP HERE

Note: Look for the Vets to Vets United check-in flags near the main cross-country starting line!

Race Day Schedule: September 26, 2026

• 07:00 AM: Sponsor & Vendor Set-up (Must be complete by 8:45 AM)

• 08:00 AM: Check-in & Race Day Registration Opens

• 09:00 AM: Opening Ceremony & National Anthem

• 09:15 AM: Race Start!

• 12:00 PM: Event Conclusion

  
  

Registration Options & Pricing

Guaranteed T-Shirt deadline: August 19, 2026!

Note: Virtual 5K registration does not include a T-shirt. Virtual runners can complete their 5K anywhere on Sept 26th and sync their results via the ItsYourRace app!

Awards & Live Results

Celebrate your achievement!

• Top Finishers: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes for Men and Women.

• Commemorative Awards: Special prizes for our Oldest and Youngest finishers!

  
  

Find Your Time:

• At the Finish Line: Check the Live Results Kiosk immediately after crossing.

• On Your Phone: Results update in real-time on the ItsYourRace Mobile App and at the bottom of this page under the "Results" tab.

  
  

Festival Fun: More Than Just a Race

Stick around for the post-race celebration!

• Live DJ and family-friendly music.

• Vendor Village: Meet local businesses and veteran service organizations.

• Animal Rescues: Meet adorable dogs looking for their forever homes.

• Snacks & Hydration: Complimentary refreshments for humans and pups!

• Raffles: Your chance to win prizes donated by our local partners.

  
  

Partners, Vendors & Sponsors

Want to promote your business or organization? We offer10'x10' plots to showcase your brand!

• Important: Tents, tables, chairs, and electricity are NOT provided. Please bring your own setup.

• Timeline: Setup begins at 7:00 AM; please remain until 12:00 PM.

• Registration Links: Product Vendor | Nonprofit Vendor | Become a Sponsor | Gift-in-Kind Donor

  
  

Support Your Race by Fundraising

Help us reach our $25,000 goal! You can create your own personal fundraising page right here on ItsYourRace. Invite friends and family to donate toward your race results—every dollar brings a service dog closer to a Veteran in need.

Get Involved

• Support a Runner: Have friends/family donate toward your race goals on your personal page!

• Volunteer: We need your help to make the event day a success. Contact Ariel: ariel@vetstovetsunited.org

• General Questions: Contact Kellye: kducre@vetstovetsunited.org (cc: tmorris@vetstovetsunited.org)

  
  

Thank you to our 2025 Sponsors for making last year a success! We look forward to seeing the community come together again for 2026!