3.21 Dash for Down Syndrome 5K Run/Walk

Event Overview

The Down Syndrome Network of Greater Greensboro (DSNGG) invites you and your family to participate in its 8th annual 5K walk/run, in honor of World Down Syndrome Day!

Race Details

• Event Date: March 21, 2026
• Location: LeBauer Park, Greensboro, NC
• Distance: 5K (3.1 miles) plus an extra 0.1-mile "dash"
• Official Timing: Recorded at the 5K finish line

Unique Features

People with Down syndrome have an extra chromosome, so this race has a little something EXTRA too – runners will go on to DASH an extra 0.1-mile to finish at 3.21 miles, in honor of the 3rd copy of the 21st chromosome present in people with Down syndrome. If you’re lucky, you may be accompanied through the second finish line by DASHers with Down syndrome to cheer you on and thank you for your support.

Beneficiary

Event proceeds will benefit the DSNGG in its efforts to support individuals with Down syndrome (Ds) and their families in our community. By participating, you can help the DSNGG continue to provide many programs and events to our families:

• Welcome Bags: Provided for new parents in the hospital
• Educational Speakers: Hosting discussions on topics such as special education rights and financial planning
• Assistance: Financial help for medical or therapeutic services
• Scholarships: Offered to families in need

Lots of Socks Campaign

Runners are encouraged to take part in the Lots of Socks campaign, wearing brightly colored socks, long socks, printed socks, 1 sock … even 3 socks for 3 chromosomes! The choice is yours, but we ask you to join us wearing something which people will ask you about so that you can tell them all about World Down Syndrome Day. Find more information at https://worlddownsyndromeday.org/lots-of-socks.

Awareness

Did you know that people with Down syndrome have an extra chromosome? Most people have two copies of 23 different chromosomes, but individuals with Down syndrome are born with three copies of the 21st chromosome (the medical term for this is Trisomy 21). That's it … only one chromosome difference! So for awareness and support, we are adding to a traditional 5K (3.1-mile) run a short extra 0.11-mile “dash” in honor of the extra chromosome in those with Down syndrome for a total distance of 3.21 miles!!! Again, your official time will be captured at the 5K finish line: the extra Dash is just for fun!

Registration

For more details and to register for the race, please visit the official race page at 3.21 Dash for Down Syndrome.