The Great Train Race
- Date Sun 3rd May 2026
- Time 7:30AM EDT
- Location Fredericksburg, Virginia
- Price $17.61 - $22.95
- Races 3 races
- Distances 1 Mile
Event summary
Get ready for a day of excitement at The Great Train Race, happening on Sunday, May 3rd, 2026, in the charming city of Fredericksburg! This beloved event has been a local tradition for over 30 years, making it one of the largest timed kids races on the East Coast. Young runners will have a fantastic opportunity to showcase their skills in three fun-filled events designed just for them.
The race kicks off near the historic Fredericksburg Train Station and weaves through the vibrant downtown area, culminating at the City Docks where participants will cross the Crown Trophy Finish Line. Kids aged 6 to 17 can take part in the 1-mile Express, while the 1/2-mile George Dashington is perfect for those 10 and under. For the littlest runners, the 1/4-mile Caboose Run invites kids 5 and under to join in the fun. Both the Express and George Dashington races will be chip-timed, ensuring an exciting competitive atmosphere.
After the races, families are encouraged to join the Race Festival in the commuter lot behind the Train Station, featuring awards, live music, vendors, and delicious treats. Don’t miss out on this wonderful community event that celebrates
The race kicks off near the historic Fredericksburg Train Station and weaves through the vibrant downtown area, culminating at the City Docks where participants will cross the Crown Trophy Finish Line. Kids aged 6 to 17 can take part in the 1-mile Express, while the 1/2-mile George Dashington is perfect for those 10 and under. For the littlest runners, the 1/4-mile Caboose Run invites kids 5 and under to join in the fun. Both the Express and George Dashington races will be chip-timed, ensuring an exciting competitive atmosphere.
After the races, families are encouraged to join the Race Festival in the commuter lot behind the Train Station, featuring awards, live music, vendors, and delicious treats. Don’t miss out on this wonderful community event that celebrates
Organiser's Description
THE GREAT TRAIN RACE has been a Fredericksburg tradition for over 30 years.! This is one of the largest timed kids races on the east coast. Young runners get the rare opportunity to compete in a race just for them.
The race starts near the Fredericksburg Train Station and runs through historic downtown. Runners cross the Crown Trophy Finish Line at the City Docks. Runners and families are invited to the Race Festival located in the commuter lot behind the Train Station for awards, music, vendors, and treats.
The race consists of 3 events for kids under 18:
The 1-mile Express for ages 6 to 17
The 1/2-mile George Dashington for ages 10 and under
The 1/4-mile Caboose Run for ages 5 and under
The Express and George Dashington will be chip timed races. The Caboose Run is a fun run and will not be timed.
The race starts near the Fredericksburg Train Station and runs through historic downtown. Runners cross the Crown Trophy Finish Line at the City Docks. Runners and families are invited to the Race Festival located in the commuter lot behind the Train Station for awards, music, vendors, and treats.
The race consists of 3 events for kids under 18:
The 1-mile Express for ages 6 to 17
The 1/2-mile George Dashington for ages 10 and under
The 1/4-mile Caboose Run for ages 5 and under
The Express and George Dashington will be chip timed races. The Caboose Run is a fun run and will not be timed.
Races
-
Express 1 Mile - (6 to 17)
Incl. $2.95 Fee & T-Shirt
Sun 3rd May 2026 (7:30AM EDT)
$22.95
OPENS 28 SEPAll runners in the Express 1 Mile must run unassisted. No parents will be permitted on the course for this event. Runners must run in their assigned heat based on age and sex or risk being dropped from the standings. -
George Dashington 1/2 Mile - (10 & Under)
Incl. $2.82 Fee & T-Shirt
Sun 3rd May 2026 (9:30AM EDT)
$20.82
OPENS 28 SEPRunners must run in their assigned heat based on age and sex or risk being dropped from the standings. -
Caboose Run 1/4 Mile - (5 & Under)
Incl. $2.61 Fee & T-Shirt
Sun 3rd May 2026 (10:45AM EDT)
$17.61
OPENS 28 SEPA non-timed fun run. Parents are welcome to participate with their runner.
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