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📅 Saturday, June 6, 2026
📍 Long Beach, California
⏰ Race Start Time: 8:00 AM

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Race Day Schedule

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• 6:30 AM – Event site opens

• 6:45 AM – Packet pickup & on-site check-in opens

• 7:45 AM – Pre-race announcements and group warm-up

• 8:00 AM – Strong Mind 5K begins

• 8:10 AM – Kids Run begins

• 8:45 AM – Post-race wellness village opens

• 9:15 AM – Awards and fundraising recognition

• 10:00 AM – Event concludes

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Participants are encouraged to arrive early to allow time for parking, check-in, and warm-up.

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Location & Parking

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The Strong Mind 5K will take place in Long Beach, CA.
The exact start/finish location, parking options, and arrival instructions will be emailed to registered participants prior to race day.

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• Free and paid parking options will be available nearby

• Please follow posted event signage and volunteer instructions

• Carpooling and early arrival are encouraged

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Packet Pickup & Check-In

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• Location: Near the start/finish area

• Time: 6:45 AM – 7:45 AM

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Packet pickup includes your race bib, safety pins, and event shirt (while supplies last). All required waivers must be completed prior to receiving a bib.

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Course Information

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• Distance: 5K (3.1 miles)

• Clearly marked and supported course

• Course volunteers and marshals stationed throughout

• Water stations available along the course and at the finish line

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The course is designed to be safe, accessible, and welcoming for runners and walkers of all experience levels.

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Kids Run

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The Strong Mind 5K Kids Run is a fun, supportive experience for younger participants.

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• Who: Children ages 12 and under

• When: Immediately following the 5K start (approximately 8:10 AM)

• Where: Near the start/finish area

• Distance: Short, age-appropriate loop

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Parents or guardians are welcome to accompany their child if needed. All Kids Run participants will receive a race bib, event shirt, and a finisher ribbon. The Kids Run is non-competitive and focused on participation and fun.

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Team Information

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Teams participating in the Strong Mind 5K should plan to arrive early to allow time for coordination and check-in.

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• Teams are encouraged to check in together when possible

• Each team will have a designated NAAMH point of contact

• A team meet-up area will be available near the start/finish line

• Teams will be acknowledged during pre-race announcements

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Teams participating in fundraising will receive special recognition, with additional awards presented to teams that raised $500 or more by May 25, 2026.

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Safety & Medical Support​

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• Certified medical personnel and EMTs will be on site

• A first aid station will be located near the start/finish area

• Emergency access routes will be maintained throughout the course

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If you feel unwell or need assistance at any point, please notify a volunteer immediately.

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Volunteers

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Volunteers are stationed throughout the event to support participants, manage the course, assist with hydration, and ensure a safe and positive experience for everyone.

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Awards & Recognition

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Awards and recognition will include:

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• Top overall finishers

• Top fundraising teams and individuals

• Special recognition for teams raising $500 or more

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Fundraising awards are based on totals received by May 25, 2026.

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Post-Race Wellness Village

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After crossing the finish line, participants are invited to enjoy the post-race wellness village featuring:

 

• Refreshments and hydration

• Sponsor and wellness booths

• Mental health resources and information

• Community celebration and connection

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What to Bring

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• Comfortable running or walking shoes

• Refillable water bottle

• Sunscreen and/or hat

• Positive energy and support for fellow participants

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❌ What Not to Bring

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• Pets (service animals permitted)

• Alcohol or illegal substances

• Bicycles, scooters, or skateboards on the course

• Weapons of any kind

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Weather Policy

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The Strong Mind 5K is a rain-or-shine event. In the event of severe weather or safety concerns, participants will be notified via email and official event communication channels.

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Why You’re Running

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By participating in the Strong Mind 5K, you are directly supporting mental health awareness and resources for athletes. Proceeds from this event fund NAAMH programs, including Mental Health First Aid training, athlete workshops, and expanded access to mental health support.

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Questions or Race Day Support

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For questions before or on race day, please contact:
strongmind5k@naamh.org

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