Gateway to Space
- Date Sat 7th March 2026
- Time 8:00AM EST
- Location Kennedy Space Center, Florida
- Price $54.00 - $75.20
- Races 3 races
- Distances 5km, 10km
Event summary
Join us for the Gateway to Space event on Saturday, March 7th, 2026, at the iconic Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Orlando, Brevard! This exciting 5K/10K race takes place at the historic Space Florida Launch and Landing Facility, known for its rich connection to space exploration. Participants can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere while supporting a noble cause—the American Cancer Society, dedicated to freeing the world from cancer through vital research and support programs.
Race day is packed with fun and excitement, starting at 5:30 AM with parking opening at the Kennedy Space Center. Check-in begins at 5:45 AM, leading up to the 8:00 AM start for both race distances. Participants will receive a complimentary race shirt and finisher medals, along with the chance to win awards in several categories, including overall and age group awards. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to make a difference while experiencing the thrill of racing in a space-themed environment! Be part of a community that celebrates health, hope, and the spirit of discovery.
Race day is packed with fun and excitement, starting at 5:30 AM with parking opening at the Kennedy Space Center. Check-in begins at 5:45 AM, leading up to the 8:00 AM start for both race distances. Participants will receive a complimentary race shirt and finisher medals, along with the chance to win awards in several categories, including overall and age group awards. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to make a difference while experiencing the thrill of racing in a space-themed environment! Be part of a community that celebrates health, hope, and the spirit of discovery.
Organiser's 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:
* _Thursday, March 5th, 2026 @ Running Elements
260 Daytona Blvd D-410, Daytona Beach, FL 32114_
* Friday, March 6th, 2026 @ Hyatt Place, Cape Canaveral
9119 Astronaut Blvd, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
1:00 PM - 8:00 PM
* 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 30, 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 another year.
PACKET PICKUP:
* _Thursday, March 5th, 2026 @ Running Elements
260 Daytona Blvd D-410, Daytona Beach, FL 32114_
* Friday, March 6th, 2026 @ Hyatt Place, Cape Canaveral
9119 Astronaut Blvd, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
1:00 PM - 8:00 PM
* 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 30, 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 another year.
Races
-
Gateway to Space 5K
Incl. $4.60 Fee & T-Shirt (Guaranteed Size by Jan 30th, 2026)
Sat 7th March 2026 (8:00AM EST)
$64.60
You must be a US citizen, no green card holders, you will be entering a US military base and restrictions apply. Participants MUST be over the age of 12. By registering for this race, you are giving your consent to a federal background check. ONLY registered participants will be allowed to board the buses out to the LLF. NO spectators. Please arrive with your ID and running attire, any bags or personal belongings may be subject to search. If the race does not sell out, registration will close five days prior to the race, NO late registrations allowed. -
Gateway to Space 10K
Incl. $5.20 Fee & T-Shirt (Guaranteed Size by Jan 30th, 2026)
Sat 7th March 2026 (8:00AM EST)
$75.20
You must be a US citizen, no green card holders, you will be entering a US military base and restrictions apply. Participants MUST be over the age of 12. By registering for this race, you are giving your consent to a federal background check. ONLY registered participants will be allowed to board the buses out to the LLF. NO spectators. Please arrive with your ID and running attire, any bags or personal belongings may be subject to search. If the race does not sell out, registration will close five days prior to the race, NO late registrations allowed. -
Gateway to Space Virtual Challenge
Incl. $4.00 Fee & T-Shirt (Guaranteed Size by Jan 30th, 2026)
$54.00
This is a VIRTUAL 5K race! You will get an AWESOME medal and t-shirt as part of your virtual race packet!! - Registration in the Virtual 5K does NOT include race entry to the in-person event.
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Space Florida Launch and Landing Facility, Kennedy Space Center, 32899, FL, United States
Gateway to Space
