Dart for Head Start Run

Lace up your sneakers for the annual Dart for Head Start Run, a heartwarming 5K event returning to Louisville, Kentucky, on June 6, 2026. This family-friendly "fun run community event" offers participants a chance to make a tangible difference, as 100% of the proceeds directly benefit the Ohio Valley Educational Cooperative (OVEC) Head Start program, supporting early childhood education and family well-being in the community.

The 5K course unfolds on a paved, mostly flat trail within the scenic E.P. Tom Sawyer State Park, located at 3000 Freys Hill Rd. Runners will complete three enjoyable laps, making it an accessible and welcoming route for all skill levels. Typical race day conditions in early June include highs around 85°F and lows around 66°F, with a modest 16% chance of precipitation, creating a generally warm and pleasant atmosphere for your run. Beyond the race itself, the event promises a festive environment with a DJ, yard games for kids, and a nearby playground, ensuring a fun outing for the entire family.

The Dart for Head Start Run is designed for community engagement rather than competitive timing, operating as a "chip-free event" where participants can personally record their times, though a large timing clock will be displayed at the finish. Check-in begins at 8:00 AM, with the 5K run and a concurrent 1-mile walk both starting promptly at 9:00 AM. Join fellow runners and walkers at Tom Sawyer Park to enjoy a laid-back morning while contributing to a vital cause that gives children a strong start in life.