Damascus Freedom 5K

We like to think that while there are a billion races out there, our Damascus Freedom 5K feels like none of them. We will remember the events of 9/11 and recognize and appreciate the sacrifices of those who serve(d).

Two races: Damascus Freedom 5K + Kid's Quarter Mile FREEdom Fun Run. Participation in the Kid's Quarter Mile FREEdom Fun Run and all kid's activities are entirely free.

However this is MUCH more than just a race. There's something for everyone (especially the kids!).

Playground
Music provided by K-Sef Entertainment
Tons of food (including Jimmie Cone! J&P! Much more!)
Balloon items for the kids made on the spot
Oh yeah, and we have our 5K and kids races.

If you have a US flag that is in bad shape that you plan to discard, please bring it to the race. Flags collected at check in will be turned over to Damascus American Legion Post 171 where they will be retired in the proper manner with dignity and respect.

The Vietnam War occured before many of us were born but make no mistake, the stories from that era are very, very important and there is so much for us to learn. We have incredible heroes and history around us and don't even know it, but sadly those numbers are dwindling. I'm pleased once again to invite our Vietnam veterans to this year's event. A portion of the event proceeds will go to support the efforts of The National Vietnam War Museum so that future generations can learn about that era.

Vietnam Vets: Please register HERE

A great day is planned to raise money for a great cause, so come on out, be active with the community, and join the fun! There is something for everyone.

Music
-
Entertainment

Food
-
Refreshments

Schedule

7:30 AM
Packet pickup and race day registration opens

8:30 AM
Packet pickup and race day registration closes

8:46 AM
Moment of silence
(Flight 11 crashes into the North Tower)
National Anthem follows

8:50 AM
Kid's Quarter Mile FREEdom FUN RUN (untimed)

9:03 AM
Moment of silence
(Flight 175 crashes into the South Tower)

9:11 AM
DAMASCUS FREEDOM 5K RACE

9:37 AM
Moment of silence
(Flight 77 crashes into the Pentagon)

10:03 AM
Moment of silence
(Flight 93 crashes in Shanksville, PA)

10:30 AM
Magic Show
Performed by Drew Blue Shoes

5K Pricing & Registration

Heroes register at half price - If you are a first responder (police, fire/rescue, etc.) or military, select the hero option at registration.

Date Range	Cost with cotton shirt	Cost with technical shirt
Through March 31	$30	$35
April 1 - July 31	$35	$40
August 1 - August 20	$40	$45
August 21 - September 4 (No registration on 9/5 - 9/6)	$45	$50
Race Day (Cash, check or credit card online on your phone)	$50	$55

Packet Pickup

There will still be race day check-in, but packet pickup will be available a day early on 9/6/24 between 5pm-8pm at MMA & Sport in Damascus in the shopping center behind Weis. Miss any lines, get shirts, bibs, etc. ahead of time. All chips will be distributed at the race.

Course

The 5K course will run North along Magruder Branch Trail, turn left at Sweepstakes Rd. and Cutsail, follow a grassy and wooded path for a short time and head back to the trail and to the park.

History

In the winter of 2010, a group of friends noticed that the upcoming 9/11 would fall on a Saturday and decided to try to use the opportunity to unite the community and local businesses to create an appropriate, fun, family friendly event, respectful of the horrific events that occurred that day just 9 years earlier and hopefully give something back to those who serve by raising needed money for Disabled American Veterans. The Damascus Freedom 5K was born.

Between the time registration first opened on 7/21/2010 until race day on 9/11/2010, it became obvious that our great community would overwhelmingly support this event. In the end, 114 participants completed the inaugural event, a substantial contribution was made to Disabled American Veterans and it became clear that this event would continue.

In 2011, the event grew a lot. We added a 10K and in addition to the DAV, we added the Wounded Warrior Project, Fisher House and USO - Metropolitan Washington to the list of non-profit organizations we collectively support. The community came through again - big time! Our great sponsors returned and 199 people finished the races. Most importantly, our contributions grew substantially.

In 2012, we were pleased to name local organization Hero Dogs as a new beneficiary. We also continued to enjoy strong community support.

In 2013, we netted our largest field to date as 226 runners completed the races.

In 2014 we had to drop the 10K but still over 200 runners finished and we netted our largest 5K field to date.

In 2021, we recognized the 20th anniversary of the attacks with our largest turnout and largest donations.

In 2023 we broke more donation records and added the The National Vietnam War Museum to our list of beneficiaries.

This event could not go on without the support of our community - the runners, businesses, friends, family, others who volunteer, county employees (M-NCPPC and MCPD) and others who serve and protect our freedom everyday.

Race proceeds to benefit the great organizations listed below. They combine to support the troops in the field, their families while deployed and those who return wounded or disabled.

SPONSORS

Questions? Comments? You can help out on race day?

Please contact us via email: damascusfreedom5k@gmail.com



Race proceeds to benefit great organizations that together support the troops in the field, their families while deployed and those who return home wounded or disabled.