In 32 days · Sun, Oct 18, 2026
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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
Event Overview
Join Friends of Somerset Regional Animal Shelter as we come together to raise funds for the Cupid Fund. The Paws & Soles Saving Lives with Strides 5K & 10K Run/Walk 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
- Course: Flat, fast, USATF-NJ Certified Course
- Dog Participation: Dogs can join the race starting at 9:20 AM: they are required to start at the back of the starting group behind the runners.
- Registration Benefits: Registered dogs receive a doggy goody bag (while supplies last).
Participants registered by September 15th are guaranteed a t-shirt or long-sleeve shirt. During registration, there is an option to forgo the t-shirt.
Day of registration: 10K Run - $50 (human entry only)
5K Run/Walk - $40 + $5/dog
Kids 10 and under - $15
To ensure an enjoyable walk for 2 legged and 4 legged participants:
- Leash Policy: Please refrain from using Flexi leads, only 6’ leads or less allowed.
- Health Requirement: All Dogs must be current on shots and no females in heat.
- Behavior Policy: Please do not bring pets whose behavior may endanger others.
- Clean Up: Participants must clean up after their pet and provide appropriate feces collection bags for such use.
Course Links
Certified 10K Course Link:
Coming soon
Certified 5K Course Link:
https://www.certifiedroadraces.com/certificate/?type=l&id=NJ16520JHP
Event Schedule
- 8:30 AM: Registration Opens
- 9:20 AM: 5K & 10K Run/Walk Start
- 10:15 AM: 5K Awards Ceremony
- 10:45 AM: 10K Award Ceremony
- 11:00 AM: Doggy Costume Contest
- 9:00-12:00 PM: Vendors open
Vendors will be available until 12 PM
Awards
- Overall 1st place 5K/10K - Male & Female
- Overall 2nd place 5K/10K - Male & Female
- Overall 3rd place 5K/10K - Male & Female
- 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 [email protected] to participate!
Follow Us!
Registration Link
For more details and registration, visit: Paws & Soles Saving Lives with Strides 5K & 10K Run/Walk
Course map
Hotels for race weekend
Live prices near the start line, Oct 17 – 19, 2026.
Train with a club
Run clubs near Bridgewater to train with before race day.
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