Cow Paddy Run

There’s a 5K for adults and older kids and a 1K Fun Run for the little ones. Don’t worry though, because there aren’t any real cow paddies to avoid. The name is just part of the tradition of this race, which has played a big part in developing Fayetteville’s pro-fitness, pro-fun culture over the years! The Cow Paddy Run produced by The Spark Foundation focuses on helping students and families build habits for an active, healthy lifestyle. We offer a “pay-your-age” program for runners 5-12 and proceeds directly support physical education in local schools through the school participation prize. As part of our mission, we want the focus on running to be fun and accessible. All runners get a chip time, participant shirt and finisher’s medal. We do not offer overall or age group awards for these events, but rather focus on the love of running by creating a fun, family-friendly atmosphere! 5K Strava Map — The course uses the paved loop around Gulley Park and the grass loop by Apple Seeds — please prepare your child for the varied terrain. Parents are encouraged to run with your child! We will have directional signs and volunteers at turns, roads soft closed to traffic, a bike lead and sweep, and an aid station at the halfway point. We take every precaution to ensure safety; however your child is your ultimate responsibility. Please review the course with your child and run with them if you are able. 1K Strava Map — Parents are encouraged to run with your child! The course uses the paved loop around the gazebo and the grass loop by Apple Seeds — please prepare your child for the varied terrain. Both elementary AND middle schools in Fayetteville are eligible for the annual participation prize! Make sure your students, teachers, parents, alumni, friends and family all select YOUR SCHOOL to be in the running for highest Cow Paddy Run participation. 1st Place — $2,000 2nd Place — $1,000 3rd Place — $500 We also have our Mighty Moovers Award — a $500 participation award for sch