That’s one…two…and three 5K challenges.
The Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office wants to get you moving with an exciting initiative: run the Foot Pursuit 5K on May 3, the Rodeo Run 5K on June 7, and the Firecracker 5K on July 4.
Designed to raise much-needed funds for local youth programs, the events bring together runners, walkers, and community members to support a cause close to the hearts of many in the county.
Each race completed will earn the runner a medal; if all three are completed, a special medal is awarded.
The events are catered to the whole family, with fun runs on the same day as well.
Sheriff Stacy Jarrard of the LCSO explained, “We are committed to making a difference in the lives of young people in Lumpkin County. By hosting this 5K challenge, we hope to raise funds and awareness of the importance of supporting our youth in meaningful ways.”
The Lumpkin County 5K Challenge is open to all community members, regardless of age or fitness level. Whether you are an experienced runner, a casual jogger, or someone looking to enjoy a walk with family and friends, this event welcomes everyone. Participants will take part in three different scenic routes through Lumpkin County, allowing runners to experience the area’s beauty while helping a worthy cause.
The first race, called the Foot Pursuit (May 3), will start and finish at the Sheriff’s Office at 385 East Main Street Dahlonega at 8 a.m., with the Fun Run starting after the 5K. Parking is available at the Court House Hill and Greenbriar Shopping Center (Harbor Freight Parking). Shirts will be provided for all PRE-REGISTERED participants registered before Friday, April 18, 2025. Awards will be given to the OVERALL male and female and the top three male/ female in each age division: Overall Male, Overall Female, 12 and under, 13-19 / 20-24 / 25-29 / 30-34 / 35-39 / 40-44 / 45-49 / 50-54 / 55-59 / 60-64 / 65-69 / 70-74 / 75-79 and 80 and up
You can pick up the packet on Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office or on race day between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. at the Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office. For any additional information, contact Mitzi Deaton at [email protected].
Water stations and snacks will be provided during the course.
The second race, called the Rodeo Run (June 7), begins at 8 a.m., with the Fun Run starting afterward. The start and finish will be held at the R-Ranch camping area located at 65 R-Ranch Road, Dahlonega, GA)
The 3.1-mile course will take runners through the R-Ranch camping area. It is mostly flat and paved, with a small portion of compact gravel. Proceeds will benefit youth programs in our community.
Shirts will be provided for all PRE-REGISTERED participants registered before Friday, May 23, 2025.
Awards will be given to the OVERALL male and female and the top three male/ female in each age division: Overall Male, Overall Female, 12 and under, 13-19 / 20-24 / 25-29 / 30-34 / 35-39 / 40-44 / 45-49 / 50-54 / 55-59 / 60-64 / 65-69 / 70-74 / 75-79 and 80 and up.
You can pick up your packet Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office (385 East Main Street, Dahlonega) or on RACE DAY from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. at R-Ranch. RACE DAY at 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. (65 R-Ranch Drive, Dahlonega)
For additional information, contact Mitzi Deaton at [email protected]
Water stations and snacks are provided along the course.
The third and final race, called the Firecracker 5K (July 4), will start and finish in historic downtown Dahlonega on Friday, July 4, beginning at 7 a.m. 5K with the Fun Run beginning after the 5K. The start and finish will be held at the Dahlonega’s Visitors Center (13 South Park Street, Dahlonega). Parking is available at the UNG Parking Deck behind the Smith House, Hancock Park, and Visitors Parking lot downtown.
Shirts will be provided for all PRE-REGISTERED participants registered before Friday, June 20, 2025. Awards will be given to the OVERALL male and female and the top three male/ female in each age division: Overall Male, Overall Female, 12 and under, 13-19 / 20-24 / 25-29 / 30-34 / 35-39 / 40-44 / 45-49 / 50-54 / 55-59 / 60-64 / 65-69 / 70-74 / 75-79 and 80 and up. You can pick up your packet on Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office (385 East Main Street, Dahlonega) or on RACE DAY at 6 a.m. to 7 a.m. (13 South Park Street, Dahlonega)
For additional information, contact Mitzi Deaton at [email protected]
Water stations and snacks were provided along the course.
If you are a virtual participant, run your 3.1 miles anywhere. Submit your time using the website’s results tab. Virtual runners will receive a t-shirt and a medal.
Now Habersham will be taking the challenge! Let us know if you will participate by emailing [email protected].
