11th Annual RunTough for ChadTough Defeat DIPG

September 29, 2024, in Saline, MI (now on Sunday afternoon), or virtually from anywhere in the world!

What began as a family-friendly local run to support the Carr family of Saline has evolved into a major celebration of hope in the fight against childhood cancer. Now in its 11th year, the annual RunTough for ChadTough 5K and 1M Fun Run, presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, will take place on Sunday, September 29, at Saline High School or virtually from anywhere in the world. This cherished community event unites families and volunteers both locally and globally to raise funds for childhood brain cancer research in honor of Chad Carr, who tragically lost his life to the disease in 2015 at the tender age of 5. In addition to raising awareness for DIPG, the type of cancer he battled, the event is an annual celebration of Chad’s birthday. Chad would be turning 14 on September 26.

Hurry to register! The RunTough early bird deadline ends after July 31. Don’t miss out on this chance to make a real difference and save! (Kids 5 and under participate for free!) 

This year's local event will offer a variety of family-friendly activities, all while supporting Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. The race will kick off with the blast of a fire truck horn, and participants will be cheered on by athletes from the University of Michigan and Saline High School. After crossing the finish line, runners and walkers will receive a medal, enjoy snacks, and have fun in the Family Fun Zone, sponsored by Meijer. The little ones can even get in on the action with our popular Tot Race, sponsored by Cornerstone Real Estate/Gold Star Mortage. 

New this year is the RunTough Charity Fair, sponsored by Enspire Dental! 

In addition to moving to a Sunday afternoon, the ChadTough Defeat DIPG Foundation is introducing the RunTough Charity Fair. Other local nonprofits will host booths prior to the race, providing information about their causes and activities for kids. To learn more about the participating charities, visit https://chadtough.org/charity-fair/.

Schedule Highlights:
1:00 pm: RunTough Charity Fair
2:00 pm: Roads close (Campus Parkway, Community Drive, Wilson Road, and part of Bicentennial Parkway)
2:15 pm: Opening Ceremony
2:30 pm: 5K and 1M Fun Run begins; Family Fun Zone opens
3:15 pm: Tot Race
3:30 pm: Closing Ceremony with awards for the top 5K runners by age group

“RunTough was the start of what would eventually become our foundation,” said cofounder Jason Carr. “A few weeks after Chad’s diagnosis, the Saline community rallied around our family to host a Fun Run in Chad’s honor. So many people came out that cold morning to lend their support, and for that we love this community. Their efforts have led us to become the world leader in DIPG research funding.”

Register or learn more.