Run for Kids Challenge

Oak Mountain State Park is the picturesque setting for the Run For Kids Challenge, an annual fundraising race that not only celebrates community spirit but also supports Smile-A-Mile, an organization dedicated to providing hope and healing to families affected by childhood cancer. The event has a rich history dating back to 2011 when it was first held at Veteran's Park in Hoover during Memorial Day weekend.
This year’s Run For Kids Challenge will take place on Saturday, May 9th, starting promptly at 7:00 AM from the Cedar Pavilion located near Double Oak Lake. The race is part of a larger fundraising effort that has raised over $100,000 since its inception, with some years seeing as much as $18,000 in additional donations.
The event features two races: a 12-hour endurance challenge and a traditional 10K run. Both events begin at the Cedar Pavilion, situated deep within Oak Mountain State Park’s wooded trails. The course itself is a scenic loop of approximately 3.4 miles that runners will traverse multiple times throughout the day.
For those participating in the 12-hour race, the challenge includes an initial two laps followed by transitions to shorter loops as time progresses: first a 0.82-mile lap at 10 hours and 30 minutes, then a final sprint on a 0.20-mile loop starting from 11 hours and 45 minutes until the race concludes exactly twelve hours after it began.
The 10K runners will complete two laps of the scenic course before crossing the finish line. The route winds through picturesque paths along Double Oak Lake, past playgrounds, pavilions, and marinas, offering stunning views and a challenging yet rewarding experience for all participants.
In addition to these main races, there is also a Kids Half event—a 1/2 mile race designed specifically for young runners. This fun-filled half-mile run provides an opportunity for children aged six and above to join in the festivities without any entry fee; however, donations are appreciated to support Smile-A-Mile's important mission.
The entire weekend leading up to the races includes packet pickup opportunities at Mountain High Outfitters on Friday from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM, followed by a final chance for late registration and pick-up at the Cedar Pavilion starting at 5:45 AM Saturday morning.
Awards will be given out after both events conclude, recognizing top finishers in various categories including overall placement, age groups, and special recognition for youth participants under sixteen years old.
All race proceeds beyond basic expenses such as shirts, awards, and food (which are often donated) go directly to Smile-A-Mile, ensuring that every step taken during the Run For Kids Challenge contributes positively towards helping families affected by childhood cancer.