Johns Hopkins Below the Belt Stride and Thrive 5K

Lace up for a truly unforgettable experience at the Johns Hopkins Below the Belt Stride and Thrive 5K, celebrating its 10-year anniversary on Sunday, June 7, 2026, in Baltimore, MD. This isn't just a race; it's a powerful movement hosted at the scenic Maryland Zoo, offering participants the extraordinary opportunity to run or walk past zebras and giraffes. Choose from the 3.11-mile 5K or a 1-Mile Run/Walk, both featuring stroller-friendly, improved road courses with clearer signage and staggered starts for a smoother journey through the animal exhibits. Typical race day conditions in early June see comfortable highs around 84F and lows near 67F, with only a 12% chance of precipitation, creating a pleasant atmosphere for your stride.

The Stride and Thrive 5K is more than a unique course; it's a vibrant community event held on National Cancer Survivors Day, where participants are encouraged to wear purple to honor and support gynecologic cancer survivors. Co-founded in 2015, this event has raised over $1.3 million to date, directly supporting groundbreaking gynecologic cancer research, education, and clinical care at Johns Hopkins Kelly Gynecologic Oncology Service, where specialized care is known to double survival rates. Join hundreds of fellow runners, cancer survivors, and healthcare heroes in making a tangible difference, knowing every step contributes to life-saving initiatives. After crossing the finish line, celebrate your achievement with post-race beverages and snacks, and enjoy the festive event village. Free onsite parking is available at the Maryland Zoo for convenience.