Black Cat Chase 3K presented by Frankfort Regional Medical Center

Race Overview

The Black Cat Chase 3K, sponsored by Frankfort Regional Medical Center, is one of the region's most popular and entertaining races. This traditional race is filled with fun and excitement, from both the race participants and spectators! With the Halloween themed festivities, such as costumes, Thriller Parade dancers, performances from Franklin County High School marching band, Halloween music and more: this is a great event for the entire family. Whether you choose to participate by yourself, with a friend or spouse, school or work group, or with the whole family, the Black Cat Chase 3K will be sure to deliver high quality entertainment for everyone involved. Also, the start/finish of the race will once again be held in Downtown Frankfort in front of the Old Capitol lawn!

Updated Race Route

• Route Change: Due to ongoing construction of roads and bridges, the City of Frankfort has required us to alter our route to accommodate traffic and emergency vehicles.
• Condensed Route: We are using a condensed 3K route that avoids crossing over Capitol Avenue and circling around the state capitol.
• Community Focus: Everything else will remain the same, and we'll still offer a fantastic night that’s Halloween themed and community oriented!

Beneficiary

Proceeds from the Black Cat Chase benefit the YMCA's Annual Giving Campaign, which generates funds to help support our local children and families in financial need in order to participate in YMCA programs and memberships. The YMCA is a non-profit charitable organization. Donations are also accepted as part of the registration process and are greatly appreciated in our efforts to serve the Frankfort community!

Race Details

• When: Friday, October 23, 2026, 7 p.m.
• Where: Downtown Frankfort

Registration Fees

• July 27 - August 23: Race Fee: $27
• August 24 - September 20: Race Fee: $32
• September 21 - October 11: Race Fee: $37
• October 12 - October 23: Race Fee: $40

Race Timing & Results

Electronic chip timing will be used for fast and accurate race time results. We will even offer a new feature this year that allows you to receive a text message or email immediately after crossing the finish line! Be sure to follow instructions in the race registration to ensure you select your preferred race results communication.

Virtual Race Participants

You may upload your 3K (1.86 miles) time anytime between Sunday, October 18 and Friday, October 23, 2026. CLICK HERE to be directed to the results page (available after the conclusion of the race). Virtual participants are not eligible to receive race awards.

Awards

Awards will be given to the top five overall male and female participants, the top three participants in each age division, and the top three teams (minimum of 5 runners per team). School prizes, best group costumes, and other fun awards will also be distributed.

• Age Divisions: 10 and Under, 11-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-79, 80+

Costume Contest

A costume parade will take place around 6:30pm in front of the Old Capitol building for anyone wishing to participate. Race bib numbers must be easily identified for judges to see. Costume awards will be given at the beginning of the awards ceremony shortly after the completion of the race.

3K Race Route

CLICK HERE to be directed to an online map of this year's race route!

Team Registration

Participants may run as an individual or as a member of a team. One member of the team shall create the team name upon registration. Each team member that signs up after the team is created can simply click the drop-down menu (when prompted) to select the team they wish to join.

• Team Discount: Teams with at least 5 participants are eligible for a $2.50 discount.
• Team Reward: The top 3 teams will receive an award plaque for their success!

T-Shirts

We're offering a special "GLOW IN THE DARK" race shirt this year! Each shirt size has a limited inventory. If your shirt size is not available at the time of your registration, you may choose a different size as inventory permits. We will have a few shirts available in our shirt exchange while supplies last.

Packet Pick-Up

Pick up your race bag, which will include your race bib, timing chip, race shirt and more. See below for pickup times and locations!

• Thursday, October 22, 2026: 4:00pm-7:00pm (Prevention Park YMCA - 77 C. Michael Davenport Blvd, Frankfort, KY 40601)
• Friday, October 23, 2026: 11:00am-2:30pm (Prevention Park YMCA - 77 C. Michael Davenport Blvd, Frankfort, KY 40601)
• Friday, October 23, 2026: 5:00-6:30pm (Broadway Street/Old State Capitol)

Parking Information

CLICK HERE to see city parking, or utilize any available street parking that is not part of the race course!

Race Day Pictures

CLICK HERE for 2025 race day photos!
CLICK HERE for 2024 race day photos!

Sponsors

We would like to extend our deep appreciation to Frankfort Regional Medical Center for being our title sponsor this year. We'd also like to thank our other sponsors listed below!