“FREEDOM STARTS HERE" 10K, 5K, 1-Mile Run

Race Overview

FREEDOM STARTS HERE" 10K, 5K, 1-Mile Run is more than a race, it’s a run with a purpose. This charity run will raise awareness and funding for the Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge.

• Purpose: A charity run to support recovery programs.
• Focus: Addressing life-controlling addiction.
• Support: Offers long-term residential recovery programs for men.
• Specialization: The nation’s first Military Specialization Program for Veterans and active-duty troops.

Event Details

The event will take place at 8am on Saturday January 10, 2026, along the scenic Reservoir Park loop and Whitehall trail in Southern Pines. The route will be well maintained and well-marked.

• Location: 395 Wilbur Blvd, Pinehurst NC, 28374.
• Weather Date: In case of winter weather, same location on January 17, 2026.
• Parking: Available at Sandhills Community College near the Sports Complex.
• Maps: [Directions to Parking](https://maps.app.goo.gl/6ANVHGyVcdQMvAmm7)

Race Categories

• 10K Run/Walk
• 5K Run/Walk
• 1-Mile Run/Walk

Packet Pickup

Packet pickup will be the evening prior, Friday January 09, 2026, from 6:30-7:30 PM at the Sandhills Horticulture Gardens located at 3245 Airport Rd. Pinehurst NC, 2374.

• Pickup Time: Evening prior from 6:30-7:30 PM.
• Location: [Sandhills Horticulture Gardens](https://maps.app.goo.gl/kDCBiDyqCm9NPMH96)
• Same Day Registration: Available Saturday from 6:30am-7:30am.
• Community Focus: Building community wellness and raising funds.

Aid Stations and Amenities

The event aims to build community wellness while providing essential resources for participants.

• Aid Stations: Set up at the start/finish line and along the route.
• Refreshments: Water, Gatorade, and snacks available.
• Setup: Participants can set up personal tents and tables in the park area.
• Awards: Prizes for top male and female in each event category.

Family-Friendly Activities

Things to do: Reservoir Park offers plenty of scenic hiking trails, playgrounds, and fishing.

• Nearby Offers: Shopping, restaurants, and coffee shops in Southern Pines, Aberdeen, and Pinehurst.
• Food Options: Food trucks and activities on site.

Weather Conditions

January weather in Moore County typically ranges from cooler mornings in the mid-30s to pleasant mid-day temperatures in the mid-50s.

Participant Perks

All participants will receive: An official race t-shirt and finishers medal. T-shirts cannot be guaranteed for registrations after Jan 01, 2026.

Learn More

To learn more, please visit the Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge website: [About Us - Adult & Teen Challenge Sandhills](https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/Pinehurst/FREEDOMSTARTSHERE10K5KMileRun?aflt_token=QZt1KFBDIiIun5smo9vi7y59qq2fNLcB).