St. Leonard 5K and Fitness Walk in Honor of Veterans

Lace up your running shoes for the 20th Annual St. Leonard 5K and Fitness Walk in Honor of Veterans, set for Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Dayton, OH. This cherished event offers a 3.1-mile (5K) course winding through the scenic St. Leonard campus, providing a unique and uplifting race experience. Participants can expect a relatively flat terrain typical of the Dayton area, with gentle slopes and lush surroundings. What truly sets this race apart is the enthusiastic support from St. Leonard residents, who line the course to cheer on every runner and walker, creating an unparalleled atmosphere of community spirit and encouragement.

The day begins with registration at 7:30 a.m., followed by a poignant opening ceremony honoring veterans at 8:30 a.m., complete with an Honor Guard salute, before the race officially starts. The start and finish lines are conveniently located in front of The Franciscan Center on campus, where ample parking is available. Along the course, runners will find well-placed water stations and readily available first aid and athletic trainers. Beyond the main event, the St. Leonard 5K is renowned for its family-friendly environment, welcoming pets and offering a free Kids' Fun Run with participation ribbons, ensuring a memorable day for all ages.

As you cross the finish line, celebrate your achievement with a delicious post-race breakfast, featuring options from pancakes to healthier choices, culminating in an awards ceremony at 10:00 a.m. Typical race day conditions in late June for Dayton, Ohio, include highs around 84°F and lows of 64°F, with a 20% chance of precipitation. This event not only promotes fitness and community but also serves a greater purpose, with all proceeds benefiting the Campus Initiative Fund to provide life-enriching activities for St. Leonard residents.