Spring Dash

Welcome to the 2026 edition of the Jen McKenna Paddle and Run 6.0. Join us for this great event experience. The Jen McKenna Paddle and Run will return to its location at Higgens Point. We are offering two race distances this year: the normal short course and the brand new long course. Short course: Athletes will begin just east of the Higgens Point boat launch and paddle around Higgens Point into Blue Creek Bay to the turn around and double back to the paddle exit. Paddle distance is approximately 1.6 miles. Then, runners head along the Centennial Trail to the turn around and double back before a short trail run and finish at the Higgens Point Park at the end of the Centennial Trail. Run distance is approximately 4 miles. This is an individual or 2-person team (1 paddler, 1 runner) event. Long Course individual or 3-person team (1 paddler and 2 runners): It will be a paddle-run-paddle-run event. Athletes paddle into Blue Creek Bay to the day use park on the east side, disembark and head

out on the Blue Creek Trail system, doubling back to the day use park, paddle back to Higgens Point, and disembark to run the Centennial Trail to the turn around, and double back to the day use park at Higgens Point. Total distance will be approximately 10 miles. if you choose the team option, there are 2 runners and 1 paddler - one runner runs the first run course, the second runner runs the second run course, and the third person paddles between the two run courses.

Awards will be given for the top 3 men and women for short and long course and top team (short and long course). Participants will also enjoy a post-race event of food and beverages.

Jen loved the outdoors, including running and kayaking. She had cystic fibrosis, but she did not let the disease define her or what she was able to do in life. In February 2019, Jen and her family relocated to the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill to wait for a double lung transplant. She received a set on May 23, but due to cystic fibrosis-related complications, Jen McKenna passed away on June 27, 2019, at the age of 41. JCM Multisports Inc is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and our event falls under JCM Multisports. 100% of your donation is tax deductible. This year's proceeds from the event benefit Companions Animal Shelter.

We’re Back And Ready to Run for a Great Cause!

Kick off your fall event calendar with a fun-filled morning for the whole family, all in support of The Literacy Project of North Idaho. A volunteer-driven 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to helping adults in our community improve their literacy and English language skills. 100% of race proceeds go directly to support our learners and literacy programs.

This year’s 5th annual event features a 5K run, as well as our popular Kids Dash, and a vibrant community gathering in Coeur d'Alene City Park/Fort Sherman Park.

🏃‍♀️ Race Distances

-5K Run/Walk

-Kids Dash (12 & under)

**(Kids 6 & under participate FREE in any event!)

🎉 Family Fun

Beyond the race, we’ll have something for everyone:

• Annual Book Swap & Sale – Bring a book to trade or grab a new read for just $1!

• Games, Activities – Plenty to enjoy even if you’re not running.

Prizes & Medals – Top 3 finishers in the 5K will win prizes, and all Kids Dash participants will receive medals!

📍 Course Info

The 5k race begins in Coeur d'Alene City Park and follow a scenic out-and-back route along the Idaho Centennial Trail toward Post Falls. The 5K route features a turnaround just before the Highway 95 bridge, with water stations along the way.

The Kids Dash will take place within the park on a fun, safe loop course perfect for little runners.

Why We Run:

Did you know 1 in 5 adults nationwide struggles with basic literacy? That means reading a job application, understanding a prescription, or helping their child with homework can be a daily challenge. At The Literacy Project of North Idaho, we believe literacy changes lives. Join us in making that change possible—one step, one book, and one learner at a time.