Duke Island Park, Bridgewater NJ
Sunday, October 18th, 2026
Join Friends of Somerset Regional Animal Shelter
As we come together to raise funds for the Cupid Fund.
About the Event
The Paws & Soles Saving Lives with Strides 5K Run/Walk and Fun Run 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 event, the day includes:
- Vendors: Engage with various local vendors.
- Food: Enjoy delicious food options available on-site.
- FURiends: A unique opportunity to meet adoptable pets.
- Date: October 18, 2026.
The Cupid Fund
The Cupid Fund is a special fund dedicated to helping our shelter animals that require extraordinary medical treatment. The fund provides:
- Medical Care: Coverage for all medical needs beyond basics.
- Expenses: Includes tests, blood work, and surgeries.
- Donations: All support goes to the FOSRAS Cupid Fund.
- Website: Learn more at FOSRAS.
Race Details
Friends, participants, and canines will run/walk the flat trails and picturesque backdrop of the flat, fast, USATF-NJ Certified Course at Duke Island Park. The details include:
- Awards: Overall Winner Awards and Age Group Awards.
- Canines: Dogs can join the race starting at 9:20 AM, required to start at the back of the starting group.
- Doggy Goody Bags: Registered dogs receive a goody bag while supplies last.
- Kiddie Dash: Held for kids 4 years and under and 5-7 years old.
Registration Information
Participants registered by September 15th are guaranteed a t-shirt or long-sleeve shirt. The details are as follows:
- Day of Registration: Run/Walk- $40 + $5/dog: Kids 10 and under $15: Kiddie Dash: $12.
- Lead Rules: Please only use 6’ leads or less.
- Health Requirements: All dogs must be current on shots, no females in heat.
- Cleanup: Participants must clean up after their pet using appropriate bags.
Event Schedule
The day's schedule is as follows:
- 8:30 AM: Registration Opens.
- 9:10 AM: Kiddie Dash.
- 9:25 AM: 5K Run/Walk Start.
- 10:15 AM: 5K Awards Ceremony.
- 10:45 AM: Doggy Costume Contest: Vendors open until 12 PM.
Awards
The awards will be categorized as follows:
- Overall: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards for Male and Female.
- Age Categories: Top 3 5k finishers, male & female in various age ranges.
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!
Facebook: FOSRAS
Instagram: FOSRAS
Website: FOSRAS
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