Howl-o-ween 5k - Ocala
Nov 14Ocala, FL5K
Also a 5K, 34 mi from Children’s Miracle Network Dash and Bash 5K, registration open
Aid stations, cutoffs and pacing in one plan, with the timeline your crew follows. Crew invites and race-day updates come with a Race Pass.
Build my planName: Children’s Miracle Network Dash & Bash: Supporting Pediatric Trauma Services at UF Health
Saturday, November 14, 2026 - 8:00 a.m.
Location: Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
Stadium North Lawn
157 Gale Lemerand Dr., Gainesville, FL 32611
RACE:
Children’s Miracle Network Dash & Bash: Supporting Pediatric Trauma Services at UF Health, will be on May 16th, 2026 from 8am-12pm at the University of Florida. This event will comprise of a 5K race around the University of Florida, passing by UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital, and a post-race “bash.” Along the race route, partners and community members will be engaging with you through “cheer zones.” In conjunction with the Pediatric Trauma Injury Prevention & Outreach team, we will be celebrating National Trauma Awareness Month at the post-race “bash.” The “bash” will have post-race entertainment and activities, as well as community safety partners. All participants will receive a finisher medal and t-shirt if they register by November 1.
Please consider joining us as a fundraiser for this event too! As a nonprofit hospital, UF Health Shands Children's Hospital relies on community support to deliver the world-class we are known for. Through your support of this event, you can make an incredible impact on the lives of children and families who come to us for advanced medical treatment. Every dollar raised ensures our hospital is well-equipped with the proper tools when children need them most. Your gift will help purchase life-saving equipment, fund ground breaking research, and provide funds for diversionary and social support programs that would otherwise not be possible. Together, we can make a difference for children and families today, tomorrow, and for years to come.
DAY OF EVENT SCHEDULE
7:00 a.m. - Registration & Pre-Registrations Opens
7:45 a.m. - Pre-Race Remarks
8:00 a.m. – 5K Race Start & Bash Begins
9:00 a.m. - Awards ceremony
9:45 a.m. - Raffle Winners Announced
10:00 a.m. - Bash concludes
TEE SHIRTS
Shirts are guaranteed for all pre-registered participants before November 1st. Shirts are not guaranteed on race day to anyone that registers after November 1st.
AWARDS
Awards will be provided to the top male, female, and non-binary individuals in the following age groups: 10 & under, 11-13, 14-18, 19-24, 25-35, 36-45, 46-55, 56-65, 66+.
PACKET PICK-UP
UF Health Professional Park - 3300 SW Williston Rd. Gainesville, FL 32608. Enter through the front entrance of the building (by the flag poles) and there will be a security desk & directional signage to the pick-up room.
DATES & TIMES TO BE ANNOUNCED
**If you are unable to come ahead of the race day, you can pick-up day of starting at 7am**
DAY OF REGISTRATION & PACKET PICK UP
Packet pickup will take place on race day at race site from at 7am.
PARKING
Parking is plentiful at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center parking lot and garage. The race starts and ends at the same location.
TIMING & SCORING
Race will be timed with chip-timing. Results will be live on the race registration website upon finish of the race.
FAQ
How long is the course?
The 5K is 3.1 miles. Please note that this is not a flat course as the race route consists of uphill/downhill components.
How will I be timed?
The race uses an electronic timing system that records race time and place. Each individual competing in the 5K is required to use the race chip. Official times will not be recorded without a chip. There will be a clock at the finish line to view your time.
How will I receive my results?
Official results are posted for the top runners in each category. Race staff has all results for on-site inquiries and results are posted on the race website.
Can I use my own race chip or tag rather than utilizing the one that is provided?
No, you will be provided with a custom chip.
Who gets a T-shirt?
Only pre-registered runners that successfully complete the registration and payment processes by May 1st are guaranteed a free race t-shirt. Race t-shirts are not guaranteed day of the race for participants that registered after May 1st and we may have limited sizes and availability day-of the race.
What if I need help along the way?
Qualified emergency medical professionals are available to provide assistance at the start/finish lines.
Can I participate in the event with my dog?
No, please leave your furry friends at home.
Can I participate with a stroller?
Yes, nurturing future generations of runners is a priority and demonstrating healthy lifestyles to our kids is special. Please, however, if you are participating for leisure, be mindful of the more competitive runners.
Should I bring my own water?
Yes, but there will be a water station on the course as well as at the finish.
Can I get my money returned?
We appreciate your race registration. We are unable to issue refunds. We are not in a position to credit your credit card or issue checks. You do have the option to purchase event insurance for less than $4.00
Will the race be held if it's raining?
The race is a "rain or shine" event. All participants are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather, such as in a rain coat or hat. Umbrellas can pose a safety hazard to others, so please do not bring them.
What will be provided after the race?
An awards ceremony will take place after the race at the Bash.
Can I transfer my entry to someone else?
We have a strict NO TRANSFER policy.
Registration opens
May 1, 2026
Tier 1 ends
May 31, 2026
Tier 2 ends
Aug 14, 2026
Tier 3 ends
Nov 13, 2026
Registration closes
Nov 14, 2026
Race day
Nov 14, 2026
Tier 4 ends
Nov 14, 2026
Current price
$35
Tier 3
Ends
Nov 13, 2026
Price progression
Registration openings and major changes, like a new date or a cancellation.
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