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27th Annual McElveen Race For The ARK logo

27th Annual McElveen Race For The ARK

Sat, Aug 15, 2026, 9:00 AM EDT

Location
Summerville, SC
206 Central Ave, 29483
Type
RUN

Sign up and verify details on the organizer’s official page.

At a glance

Run or walk through historic Summerville to support The ARK's vital services for families facing Alzheimer's and related dementias.

  • Fun
  • Scenic
  • Competitive
  • For a Cause

Great for

  • For a Cause

Join the 27th Annual McElveen Race For The ARK in historic Downtown Summerville, SC. This event offers a 5K run/walk and a 1-mile fun run, both starting and finishing at St. Luke's Lutheran Church. The USATF-certified 5K course winds through charming downtown streets, offering a lovely backdrop for your effort. Your participation directly supports The ARK, which provides vital services to families affected by Alzheimer’s and related dementias. It's a wonderful opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause while enjoying a morning run.

What to expect

  • Experience a USATF-certified course winding through the historic streets of downtown Summerville.
  • Stay hydrated with three water stations along the route.
  • Celebrate your finish with a complimentary beer for runners 21+ or non-alcoholic options.

Standout details

  • Supports The ARK's dementia services
  • USATF-certified 5K course
  • Cash awards for course records
  • Complimentary beer for 21+

Auto-drafted from the public listing — confirm details on the official event page before signing up.

Distances & registration

4 options

Registration for all distances is through the official signup link above.

  • 1 Miles

    Sat, Aug 15, 9:00 AM EDT · From $11.60

    Opens May 1, 2026, 4:00 AM EDT · Closes Aug 13, 2026, 1:59 PM EDT

  • 3.2 Miles

    Sat, Aug 15, 7:45 AM EDT · From $38.10

    Opens May 1, 2026, 4:00 AM EDT · Closes Aug 13, 2026, 1:59 PM EDT

  • 5K Run without Shirt

    Sat, Aug 15, 7:45 AM EDT · From $27.50

    Opens May 1, 2026, 4:00 AM EDT · Closes Aug 13, 2026, 1:59 PM EDT

+ 1 more option
  • 1 Mile Fun Run Family of Four

    Sat, Aug 15, 9:00 AM EDT · From $32.80

    Opens May 1, 2026, 4:00 AM EDT · Closes Aug 13, 2026, 1:59 PM EDT

Vibe Check

Easygoing

warm-day exposure

  • Warm season

The course

  • Flat
  • Timed race
From the organizer

The race is set for Saturday, August 15  in Downtown Summerville. The ARK provides comprehensive support services to families living with Alzheimer’s or related dementia.

This race includes a 5K run/walk and 1-mile fun run – both races begin and end at St. Luke's Lutheran Church, 206 Central Avenue in Summerville. The USATF-certified course winds through historic downtown Summerville. The 5K begins at 7:45 a.m. and the 1-mile fun run kicks off at 9:00 a.m. Awards begins at 9:30 a.m. Awards will be given to the top three overall male and female winners as well as in several age groups. Plus, $100 will awarded to the first male and female to break the course records (15:40 male and 17:51 female).

ON-SITE REGISTRATION AND PACKET PICK UP:

Noon to 6 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 14 at The ARK House located at 502 W. 5th North St. Summerville, SC 29483

6:30 to 7:30 a.m. on site race day at St. Luke's Lutheran Church, 206 Central Ave, Summerville, SC 29483.

During packet pickup and on race day, registration for the 5K is $40. For the 1-mile fun run, it’s $15 or $35 for a family of four (without T-shirts).

The ARK is offering ONE free beer to runners who show their race bib AND a valid 21+ ID!*

● The race/walk starts and ends at St. Luke's Lutheran Church, 206 Central Avenue in Summerville. ● There are three water stations and the course is certified (SC23001BW).

This is a RAIN or SHINE event. No refunds.

How to Register For more information or to register call The ARK at 843-471-1360 or info@thearkofsc.org ● Deadline – August 1, 2026 for inclusion on T-shirt - No Exceptions! ● Online registration -- Be sure to have ALL your participants' information handy!

*A valid drivers license age 21+ must be shown to be served alcohol in accordance with local and state law. No ID = No beer. Non-alcoholic options will be available.

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