2026 Shelter Dog Dash 5K and 1M

To get to the finish line you can run, walk, jog… or Dash for a Shelter Dog!

One Love is thrilled to bring you our fifth annual 5K and 1-Mile Run/Walk, taking place on February 14, 2026 at Freestone Park in Gilbert.

This event brings our community together to raise critical funds for some of the most vulnerable dogs in Maricopa County. Every step you take helps us give them the second chance they deserve.

So if your 2026 goal is giving back… consider this your sign. Get registered and meet us at the starting line!

One Love is a nonprofit organization that delivers innovative, hands-on programs to save at-risk shelter dogs and provide critical services to the community.

Funds raised from this event support the following life-saving programs:

🐕 Shelter Dog Project

Founded in 2015, this program focuses on removing barriers to adoption for at-risk shelter dogs through training, medical care, marketing, and post-adoption support.

New in 2025: We’re now offering free weekly PetSmart training classes for shelter and foster dogs to help them build confidence and prepare for life in a home.

✂️ Free Spay/Neuter Clinics

We offer free spay/neuter and vaccination clinics for pit bull, shepherd, and husky mixes—the breeds most at risk in our local shelters. These clinics help reduce shelter intake and support families who need a little extra help.

🏫 Prison Program

Through our 11-week in-prison dog training program, incarcerated individuals are paired with shelter dogs for a structured, rehabilitative experience. The program promotes personal growth for participants and prepares dogs for successful adoption.

Event details and schedule

Mail-in Registration

To register by mail please complete and return our Mail-in Registration Form! Please make all checks payable to StartLine Racing.

Virtual Run Registration

Of course we want you to participate in the Shelter Dog Dash locally but we understand things come up. So, if you can't join us at Freestone Park and still want to run, get the medal and a shirt then you still can! Here is your chance to take part in this event no matter where you are! And of course, all prices include shipping! Please note that all items will ship following the event on February 14th. Prior to the event all virtual participants will receive an email with instructions on how to submit your time.

Virtual Registrations are restricted to US addresses only. If you reside outside of the US and wish to participate please contact StartLine Racing at info@startlineracing.com

All Participants Receive

Custom Event Finisher's Medal

Custom Event 100% Ring Spun Cotton T-Shirt.

Age Group Awards for Top Three in all Age Groups for the 5K only. Our age groups are the following:

• 8 & Under, 9 & 10, 11-13, 14-17, 18-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80 & Over

Pre- and Post-Race "Runner's Brunch" (granola bars, fruit, water, Gatorade, etc)

Chip Timed with Real Time Results and Photos on our Website or Mobile App (on Apple and Google)

Event managed by StartLine Racing. Club SLR discounts do not apply.

Please note any race related items (shirts, medals, etc.) will NOT be mailed to those that do not attend.

Course Maps

5K Dash

1M Dash

Race Day Information

Race Day Check In will be available beginning at 8am at Freestone Park (race location).

We accept cash, or credit card on race day

Cost of registration on race day will be:

• $50 for the 5K Dash

• $30 for the 1M Dash

We welcome wheelchairs, and strollers out on the course.

No roller blades, skateboards, wagons or motorized devices are allowed on the run or walk courses.

Leashed pet friendly. We do ask that dogs be well behaved, kept 6ft apart from other dogs at all times and no retractable leashes.

Due to the common start/finish line, there is no bag check for this event.

This event will take place rain or shine. There are no refunds for due to weather.

Packet Pick-Up Opportunities

• Friday, February 13, 2026 from 3:00 - 6:00pm at Solstice Fitness (map)

• Solstice Fitness is located at 2655 W Guadalupe Road, Suite 30, Mesa, AZ 85202

• Saturday, February 14, 2026 at Freestone Park (race location) beginning at 8am.

Event schedule

Fri, February 13, 2026 3:00 PM - Packet Pickup at Solstice Fitness in Mesa from 3-6pm

Sat, February 14, 2026 8:00 AM - Race Day Registration and Packet Pickup Opens

Sat, February 14, 2026 9:00 AM - 5K Dash Begins

Sat, February 14, 2026 9:05 AM - Race Day Registration and Packet Pickup Closes

Sat, February 14, 2026 9:10 AM - 1M Dash Begins

Sat, February 14, 2026 10:00 AM - Awards Ceremony Begins (approx.)