Battle of the Branches 5K

Event Overview

• Event Name: Battle of the Branches 5K
• Date: October 3, 2026
• Location: 56th Street and Indian School, Phoenix, AZ
• Registration Link: Register here

Purpose of the Event

• Mission: Battle of the Branches is an annual event to raise awareness in the fight against Veteran suicide.
• Competition: The 5K Run / Walk event is a friendly competition between all branches of the military.
• Winner Recognition: One Branch wins the title for the most registered participants.
• Beneficiaries: The real WINNERS are the Veterans, their families, and those of you who registered for the event.

Proceeds and Support

• Support Services: Proceeds from this event support Veteran-specific services, including Navigation, Peer Support, Advocacy, and Education.
• Veteran Challenges: It is estimated that at least one in five Veterans and service members will struggle with substance abuse, relationship issues, stress, hopelessness, and even thoughts of suicide.
• Statistics: 22 Veterans per day complete suicide, which is substantially higher in comparison to the general population.
• Program Goal: As part of the Rally Point Arizona Navigator program, the goal is to reduce those numbers.

Navigator Program

• Guidance Provided: Rally Point Navigators provide the needed guidance, access to resources, and peer support necessary to ensure those who have served us know they are not alone.
• Free Services: While services provided are free to Veterans, military members, and their families, financial support is needed to support the program.
• Learn More: To learn more about Rally Point Arizona, visit https://www.rallypointaz.org/.
• Fight Against Suicide: Your registration helps in the Fight against Veteran Suicide.

Registration Discounts

• Child Discount: Children ages 12 and under save $15 on your 5K registration!
• Online Process: Discount reflected during registration.

Event Details and Schedule

• Packet Pickup: Race day packet pickup and registration will open at 6:30 am at Arizona Falls.
• Registration Fees: Prices on race day will be $50.
• Accessibility: We welcome wheelchairs, strollers & wagons: you must start at the back of the pack.
• Event Policy: This event will take place rain or shine. There are no refunds or transfers due to weather.

Course Map

• View Map: See the 5K Course Map.

Race Day Information

• Acceptable Payments: We accept cash and credit cards on race day.
• Shirt Sizes: Shirt sizes are not guaranteed for those who register on race day.
• Paw Policy: Leashed pets are allowed.
• No Bag Check: Due to the common start/finish line, there is no bag check for this event.

Event Schedule

• 6:30 AM: Race Day Packet Pickup and Registration Opens.
• 7:00 AM: Welcome Address.
• 7:20 AM: Color Guard Presentation.
• 7:30 AM: 5K Begins.