Lucky Kidney Run™, a part of Knox Shamrock Fest™

Lucky Kidney 6K Run

East Tennessee Kidney Foundation (ETKF) is bringing you a one of a kind race and festival to the downtown scene in Knoxville! This race will start and end in the heart of downtown Knoxville from the World's Fair Park where runners can hop right into the Knoxville Shamrock Festival after finishing their run/walk. You won't want to miss this spring morning downtown with all the festivities of St. Patrick’s day! The Knox Shamrock Fest begins at 10am, so be sure to bring friends and family to run or walk, then PARTY WITH ALL THINGS GREEN AND IRISH!

Course Information

• Starting Point: World's Fair Park
• Course Type: Out and back along 2nd Creek Greenway
• Features: Neyland Drive greenway
• Finish: Return to World's Fair Park Lawn for festivities

Water and Aid

Feeling thirsty on the route? Water stop will be set up at the halfway point for rehydrating!

About ETKF

ETKF is a non-profit organization committed to enhancing the lives of East Tennesseans through early detection of kidney disease, education, and access to vital care. ETKF proudly operates independently and is 100% LOCAL. All funds raised by ETKF remain in our community, directly supporting local individuals battling kidney disease.

Packet Pickup

• Encouragement: All race day participants are encouraged to pick up packets & race items during packet pickup times to avoid any lines the morning of the race.
• Packet Pick Up 1: Wednesday, March 11th 9am-7pm: XUL BEER - HARDIN VALLEY (10677 Hardin Valley Rd Knoxville, TN 37932)
• Packet Pick Up 2: Thursday, March 12th 9am-7pm: XUL BEER - DOWNTOWN (213 5th Ave Knoxville, TN 37917)
• Race Day Pickup: Available at World's Fair Park Performance Lawn. Arrive early to avoid lines!

Pricing

Registration includes the race 2026 Event Shirt, race number, & race packet. BE SURE TO REGISTER EARLY!! 6K Early Registration Price is $35. Price increases to $40 after March 1. Kids & Family 1 Mile Run is $20 and increases to $25 March 1. 6K Runners and 1 mile participants are guaranteed to receive an event themed tee shirt when registered by February 20th. Tee shirts will be provided first come, first served, while supplies last for those registered after February 20th.

Awards

• 6K Age Group Awards: Top 3 M/F finishers, top fundraising team, & largest team.
• Age Groups: Presented to the top performer in 10 year increments: 12 & Under, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69 & 70+
• Award Ceremony: Awards for 6K will be presented from the Main Center Stage at the Knox Shamrock Fest, awards will begin at 11am!
• 1 Mile Timing: All runners/walkers participating in the 1 mile event will receive a race number for timing purposes. This event is timed—not scored: top 25 runners will receive medals.

Virtual Run / Walk

Choose to run or walk wherever and whenever and submit your results online following the sign up instructions. Submissions will be available from March 11-16th (Honor system in place). There are no awards or T-shirts for virtual race participants. Virtual attendees may purchase t-shirts to be picked up during the packet pickup windows. Items ordered will not be mailed out.

Race Day Details to Remember!

• Race Start Times: 6K Race starts at 9am: 1 mile Walk/Run starts around 9:05 after the 6K race takes off.
• Parking: Available in downtown garages: 11th St garage is recommended (free on weekends).
• Arrival: Be at the starting line 10-15 Minutes Early.
• Dress Code: Wear your race shirt or fun St. Patrick's Day & Team outfits!

Social Media & Contact

Post event pics using #luckykidneyrun! This event is RAIN or SHINE! Please come prepared. In the event it is cancelled, you are able to complete the 6K + 1 mile virtually. If you would like to support without the sweat, consider donating at the top of the page or by visiting our website. Please email alexandra@etkidney.org with any questions, or give us a call at 865-288-7351.

Event Details

For more information and registration details, visit the official race page: Lucky Kidney Run™.