UNITE TO RUN 5K - MARCH 15, 2026

Unite to Run is a 5K fundraiser supporting Unite for Health, a non-profit organization committed to reducing maternal and child mortality in underserved rural villages of Africa. The Unite to Run 5k is a timed race for elite runners, and a peaceful route for morning walkers, to highlight the importance of community and making a difference.

PROCEEDS FROM THE EVENT WILL ENABLE UNITE FOR HEALTH TO PROVIDE FREE MAMA KITS TO VULNERABLE PREGNANT WOMEN IN A REMOTE SUBDIVISION IN NW CAMEROON. EACH KIT CONTAINS ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES FOR LABOR, THE MOTHER AND HER BABY, A SIGNIFICANT GIFT FOR WOMEN WHO FEED THEIR FAMILIES FROM WHAT THEY FARM.

Walkers are welcome at this event. The race is chip-timed.

RACE START:

The race starts at 8:00 AM at Al Lopez Park.

- Al Lopez Field, 4810 N Himes Ave, Tampa, FL 33614 -

REGISTRATION:

Online registration is available through the Tuesday prior to race day. The online system will close and will reopen for onsite registration on race day. Pre-registration is greatly encouraged for efficient packet pick up before race day. There will be on-site registration the morning of race day.

REGISTRATION FEES:

PRE-RACE: $30

RACE DAY: $35

PACKET PICK UP:

Packets will consist of the supplies needed for the run, including Bibs which will time each runner. A friend or family member may collect your packet during the scheduled packet pick up windows.

OPTION 1: MARCH 11TH AND MARCH 13TH FROM 3-6 PM

LOCATION: The Running Center Tampa Bay

ADDRESS: 14427 N. Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618

OPTION 2: MARCH 15TH (RACE DAY) FROM 6:45-7:30 AM

LOCATION: Al Lopez Park

ADDRESS: Al Lopez Field, 4810 N Himes Ave, Tampa, FL 33614

COURSE MAP:

5k Course [https://www.tampa.gov/sites/default/files/content/files/migrated/al_lopez_map_copy.pdf]

RESULTS & AWARDS:

All runners will receive a customized drawstring bag, inspired by the Unite to Run cause, as they finish the race. All finishers will also recieve a cap, and a sunscreen lotion sponsored by Panama Jack.

The top male and female per age group will be recognized for awards.

AGE GROUPS:

* Below 10
* 10-14
* 15-19
* 20-29
* 30-39
* 40-49
* 50-59
* 60-69
* 70-79
* 80+

Awards will be presented after the final finisher ~ 9:30 AM at Al Lopez Park.

We are unable to mail drawstring bags or awards. A friend or family member may collect your packet during the scheduled packet pick up windows or award during the awards ceremony.

SAFETY & WEATHER GUIDELINES:

NO DOGS, BICYCLES, ROLLER SKATES, OR IN-LINE SKATES WILL BE ALLOWED ON THE COURSE. The use of headphones is discouraged and strollers need to stay at the back of the race.

The Unite to Run 5k is held in rain or shine as long as conditions are safe. Weather forecasts will be monitored by race officials. Lightning in the area will delay the race or possibly cancel it. Less threatening conditions may alter the course or post-event activities.

HEAT ADVISORY: Florida is prone to warm weather and high humidity. Stay well hydrated before race day with water and electrolytes. Choose light clothing for race day and breathable headwear. If not heat acclimated, or if prone to heat illness and sensitive to warm conditions, be conservative with your race pace. Slow down if any signs of heat illness occur (nausea, dizziness, or lightheadedness).

TRANSFER & REFUND POLICY:

The race is nonrefundable.

If unable to attend, please undergo an ONLINE registration transfer through your Run SignUp profile. Bibs may be virtually transferred until the Tuesday before the race. Bib switching in-person under any circumstances is NOT ALLOWED as this fosters inaccurate race results, person identification, and awardees.