Killen Founder's Day 5K

A Shoals Summer Tradition

For over a decade, runners join us along the JC Mauldin Hwy to kick-off Founder’s Day weekend at the Killen Founder’s Day 5K and 1 Mile.

Event

The Killen Founder’s Day 5K celebrates the spirit of Killen's founding. This isn’t just a race, it's an annual tribute to the people who build, sustain, and celebrate the Shoals.

Course

Certified 5K and 1 Mile courses welcome you to come test your spirit for State Records and Personal Bests.

Amenities, Features, and Highlights

• SWAG: All runners registered before our T-shirt deadline on July 12 will receive a short-sleeve race shirt in their size.
• Finisher Medals: All finishers of the 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run will receive a custom 2026 Killen Founder’s Day Finisher Medal.
• Food: We will have a coffee truck on-site and snacks to help you replenish that race day energy.
• Medals and Prizes: Awards for 5K Overall Male/Female, Masters (40+) Male/Female, GrandMasters Male/Female (60+), and 1st, 2nd, 3rd Male/Female Age Groups (12U, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+).

• Aid Stations: There will be two aid and recovery stations, one at the START/FINISH line area and one between mile 1 and 2 of the course.
• START/FINISH aid station: Will have hydration, first aid, snacks, and electrolytes.
• On Course aid station: Will have water and first aid.

Additional Information

• Early Packet Pick-up: Friday, July 31st at the Killen Founder’s Day at Killen Park from 4:00-7:00 pm.
• Race Day Schedule:
• Packet Pick-up and In-person Registration: 7:00-7:45 AM
• 5K Race Start: 8:00 AM
• Fun Run Start: 9:00 AM
• Awards: 9:30 AM

FAQ

• Where is the race? First Baptist Church Killen, Killen, Alabama.
• When is the event? Saturday, August 1st, 2026 - 8:00 am CT RACE START.
• Can I register on race day? Yes -- we will allow race day registrations up until 15 minutes before race start, but please arrive early.
• Are t-shirts included with registration? Yes, if you register before the t-shirt deadline your exclusive race tee in the size you order is 100% guaranteed!

• Where do I park? FREE Parking is available on-site at First Baptist Church Killen.
• Are strollers allowed? Yes, strollers are welcome at the back of the pack.
• Are pets allowed? Yes! Well-socialized and leashed dogs are welcome at the back of the pack.
• Is the race timed? Yes, this event is professionally RFID chip timed by Race Ready Events.

For more information, visit our official page: Killen Founder’s Day 5K.