Pups & Pastries

Lace up your running shoes and leash up your furry companion for the Pups & Pastries race on Saturday, September 12, 2026, in Cary, NC. Hosted at the scenic WakeMed Soccer Park, runners can choose from a challenging 6.5M, a popular 5K, or a fun 1M distance. This event is more than just a race; it's a heartfelt celebration of fitness, family, and our four-legged friends, with proceeds supporting Second Chance Pet Adoptions, a vital no-kill animal rescue organization. Typical race day conditions in mid-September feature highs around 84°F and lows around 65°F, with a modest 15% chance of precipitation.

The course itself winds through the WakeMed Soccer Park's cross-country trails, offering a varied terrain of dirt, grass, and natural paths. Runners can expect one water station strategically placed on the course, with additional water available near the finish line and at the registration area, alongside a medical tent staffed with an athletic trainer. What truly sets Pups & Pastries apart are the "Doggie Dash" options for the 6.5M and 5K races, allowing participants to run alongside their registered canine companions (one dog per runner, on leash) for an additional $10 fee that directly benefits the charity. For those without pups, or with younger children, the regular 5K, 6.5M, and Fun Mile are open to all ages, and strollers are welcome in these non-Doggie Dash events for registered children.

Finishers of the 5K and 6.5M distances will earn a commemorative Pups & Pastries shirt and a finisher's medal, while Fun Mile participants receive a medal. Whether you're aiming to challenge existing course records for a prize, looking for a family-friendly outing, or simply want to support a great cause, this inclusive event welcomes all skill levels and abilities. Come be a part of this inspiring day where every stride helps give abandoned animals a second chance at finding love.