HEADstrong Running aHEAD of Cancer 5K 2026

About the Event

Experience the heart of Swarthmore at our annual hybrid race event, now entering its eighth year. In 2026, we welcomed over 550 enthusiastic participants who ran and walked through the charming streets of this vibrant town. This year promises another memorable day for runners, walkers, and supporters of the HEADstrong Foundation.
The course is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all ages, with both a 5K run and a one-mile walk that are suitable for children and strollers alike. The route winds through scenic, paved streets lined with historic homes and vibrant green spaces. Participants will have the opportunity to explore Swarthmore's picturesque setting while supporting Nick’s House, which plays an integral role in our community.
Registration begins promptly at 4:30 PM behind the Inn at Swarthmore (10 S Chester Rd), where you can pick up your bib and gear for the race. Parking is available near the Swarthmore train station SEPTA lot off of N Chester Rd, making it convenient to start your day.
The event kicks off with a 5K run starting at 6:00 PM, followed immediately by the walk portion. To ensure you receive a commemorative t-shirt for this special occasion, be sure to register before Friday, August 28th.
Please note that pets are not allowed on the race course to maintain safety and order during the event. Join us in celebrating Swarthmore's spirit of community and support!
Enjoy your day exploring the beauty and warmth of our town!

Races Offered

1 Mile Walk

Sep 19, 2026

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Distance — 1.6K

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Type — Running

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57 days remaining

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$17.05

1 Mile Walk - Final Price

Sep 19, 2026

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Distance — 1.6K

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Type — Running

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57 days remaining

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$22.40

5K Run

Sep 19, 2026

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Distance — 5K

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Type — Running

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57 days remaining

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$38.45

5K Run - Final Price

Sep 19, 2026

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Distance — 5K

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Type — Running

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57 days remaining

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$43.80

Virtual

Sep 19, 2026

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Distance — Virtual

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Type — Running

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57 days remaining

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$27.75

Virtual - Final Price

Sep 19, 2026

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Distance — Virtual - Final Price

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Type — Running

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57 days remaining

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$33.10

Weather History

These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania.

thermostat Temperature

16.3° / 25.8°

wb_sunny Feels like

15.6° / 25.2°

light_mode Avg sunshine hours

8h 32m

water_drop Avg rainfall

3.1 mm

ac_unit Avg snowfall

—

air Avg wind speed

10.2 km/h (Light breeze)

opacity Sweat loss rate

High

terrain Course conditions

Hard and dry surface

sunny Max UV Index

Moderate (5.0)

humidity_mid Humidity

71.4%

wb_twilight Sunrise

06:42

nightlight Sunset

19:08

About Swarthmore, Pennsylvania

Learn more about the host city, Swarthmore, Pennsylvania.

Swarthmore is a borough in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, United States. Swarthmore was originally named Westdale in honor of painter Benjamin West, who was one of the early residents of the town. The name was changed to Swarthmore after the establishment of Swarthmore College. As of the 2020 census, Swarthmore had a population of 6,543.