About the Columbus Humane's 20th Annual Defend Your Friend 5K
The race and festival take place at Bank Run Metro Park, a metro park setting that gives the course a natural feel. Dogs are welcome, which shapes the whole morning. The timed run and a shorter walk option draw a range of participants, and the surrounding festival grounds stay busy with activity well past the finish line.
Packet pickup opens race morning before the run begins, so there is no need to make a separate trip the day before. The festival itself opens a bit before the run starts, giving you time to settle in, and the whole event wraps up around midday.
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Distances & Start Times
5K9/13/2026 09:00$65
1 Mile9/13/2026 09:00$65
Virtual Supporter9/13/2026 09:00$55
Going for a Time?
Set a goal and get a pace band: every mile split on a card sized for your phone lock screen, so race morning needs no math.
Where to Stay
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