2026 5K9 Dog Jog: Improving Lives, Saving Lives, One Veteran And 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!
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!
| Registration Tier |
Dates |
Price |
| Early Bird Special |
Now – June 30 |
$40 |
| Standard Registration |
July 1 – August 19 |
$50 |
| Late Registration |
August 20 – September 26 |
$60 |
| Virtual 5K (Remote) |
Until September 26 |
$40 |
| Just 4 Fun (Shirt Only) |
Until August 19 |
$20 |
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.
Support Your Race by Fundraising
Help us reach our $25,000 goal! You can createyour 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
Thank you to our 2025 Sponsors for making last year a success! We look forward to seeing the community come together again for 2026!
