The Run for Kids Challenge, set for May 9, 2026, in Pelham, AL, offers runners a unique opportunity to test their endurance while making a profound difference. Held within the scenic Oak Mountain State Park, this event features both a challenging 12-Hour race and a spirited 10K, all while raising crucial funds for Smile-A-Mile, an Alabama nonprofit supporting families affected by childhood cancer. This race stands out as a 100% charity event, having raised over $100,000 since its inception in 2011, making every stride a step towards hope and healing.

The course itself is a dynamic and engaging experience. Both distances begin and end at the Cedar Pavilion, nestled at the south end of Double Oak Lake. The primary loop, approximately 3.26 to 3.4 miles, treats runners to a diverse landscape encompassing roads, walking paths, boardwalks, paved sections, and grassy crossings near the marina. Runners will navigate the picturesque Lake Trail, cross a dam, and traverse a short horse trail segment, offering continuous lakeside views and wooded scenery. While generally described as fast and flat with wide single-track trails, the course also features some rolling bike trails. For those tackling the 12-Hour Challenge, the race introduces a strategic element, transitioning to shorter 0.84-mile and then 582-foot loops as the clock winds down, ensuring a fresh challenge even after hours on the trails.

Runners can expect a well-supported experience, with a key aid station conveniently located at the Cedar Pavilion, at the completion of each lap. Typical race day conditions in early May include comfortable highs around 81°F and lows around 58°F, with a relatively low 15% chance of precipitation, providing an ideal climate for hitting the trails. Whether you're aiming for a strong 10K finish or pushing your limits in the 12-Hour Challenge, the Run for Kids Challenge promises a rewarding race day filled with beautiful scenery and the powerful motivation of running for a cause.