In 79 days · Sun, Oct 18, 2026
Don't let race day sneak up
One email during race week. That's it.
Sunday, October 18th, 2026
Duke Island Park, Bridgewater NJ
5K · 10K
49–66°F · some rain risk
See last 10 years
On this date: rain 0 of the last 10 years
2025
45–70°F
dry
2024
44–69°F
dry
2023
48–63°F
dry
2022
42–56°F
dry
2021
47–60°F
dry
2020
39–65°F
dry
2019
44–58°F
dry
2018
40–49°F
dry
2017
44–71°F
dry
2016
61–83°F
dry
Best months to race in New Jersey →
About this race
Join Friends of Somerset Regional Animal Shelter
The Paws & Soles Saving Lives with Strides 5K & 10K Run/Walk + Kiddie Dash is a major fundraiser for the Friends of Somerset Regional Animal Shelter (FOSRAS) and a wag of a great time! The annual event draws animal lovers from all over to share the day with and in honor of four-legged friends. In addition to the official 5K and 10K events, the day includes vendors, food, and of course, a chance to meet FURiends.
The Cupid Fund
The Cupid Fund is a special fund dedicated to helping our shelter animals that require extraordinary medical treatment. The fund provides care for any animal needing more than the basics- spay/neuter, vaccines, and microchipping. All medical tests, blood work, specialist consults, surgery, treatment of illnesses, etc. are paid for by donations to FOSRAS Cupid Fund. Please visit our website at: https://www.fosras.com
Race Details
- Location: Duke Island Park, Bridgewater, NJ
- Timing: Overall Winner Awards and Age Group Awards
- Dog Participation: Dogs can join the race starting at 9:20 AM and are required to start at the back of the starting group behind the runners
- Goody Bags: Registered dogs receive a doggy goody bag (while supplies last)
Kiddie Dash Details
- Age 4 and Under: 25 yard dash
- Age 5-7: 50 yard dash
- Finisher Prize: All kiddie dash participants will receive a finisher prize
- T-Shirt Guarantee: Participants registered by September 15th are guaranteed a t-shirt or long-sleeve shirt
Day of Registration Fees
- 10K Run: $50 (human entry only)
- 5K Run/Walk: $40 + $5/dog
- Kids 10 and Under: $15
- Kiddie Dash: $12
Participant Guidelines
- Leash Rules: Please refrain from using Flexi leads, only 6’ leads or less allowed
- Vaccination: All Dogs must be current on shots and no females in heat
- Behavior: Please do not bring pets whose behavior may endanger others
- Cleanup: Participants must clean up after their pet and provide appropriate feces collection bags for such use.
Course Links
- Certified 10K Course: Coming soon
- Certified 5K Course: https://www.certifiedroadraces.com/certificate/?type=l&:id=NJ16520JHP
Event Schedule
- 8:30 AM: Registration Opens
- 9:10 AM: Kiddie Dash
- 9:25 AM: 5K & 10K Run/Walk Start
- 10:15 AM: 5K Awards Ceremony
- 10:40 AM: 10K Award Ceremony
- 10:45 AM: Doggy Costume Contest
- 9:00-12:00 PM: Vendors open
Vendors will be available until 12 PM
Awards
- Overall Awards: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place for male & female 5K
- Age Categories: Top 3 5K finishers, male & female in various age categories
Race Bibs
We use Chronotrack RFID systems for chip timing. All awards will be calculated based on chip time, not gun time.
Sponsorships Available!
Email heartandsole5knj@gmail.com to participate!
Follow us!
Course map
Train with a club
Run clubs near Bridgewater to train with before race day.
Suggested Races
Organize this race?
Claim it free to manage your listing — and get it featured for free, while spots last.