Outrun the Darkness 9.88K, 5K

Lace up your shoes for the Outrun the Darkness 9.88K and 5K, an inspiring and uplifting event dedicated to mental health awareness and suicide prevention, taking place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, in Hazleton, PA. This unique race offers participants the chance to run a 9.88K, a distance specifically chosen to honor the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number, or a traditional 5K, alongside a 1 Mile Memory Walk and Kids' Fun Run. Typical race day conditions in mid-May bring comfortable highs around 68°F and lows of 48°F, with a modest 20% chance of precipitation, creating pleasant running weather.

The event kicks off from Hazleton Area High School, with the 9.88K and 5K courses winding through the scenic campus and surrounding areas. While precise course details, including elevation and specific terrain, are still being finalized, runners can expect a dynamic route that moves beyond the track itself. Water stations will be available on-site to support runners throughout their journey. Beyond the physical challenge, the Outrun the Darkness race fosters a supportive community atmosphere, culminating in engaging post-race activities such as food trucks, kids' entertainment, and a heartfelt Candlelight Ceremony to remember loved ones lost to suicide. All proceeds directly benefit the Friends of Rachel Club's vital mental health and suicide prevention initiatives within the Hazleton Area School District, making every step count towards a powerful cause.