W.C. Handy Festival DaDooRon Run
Lace up, tune in, and move to the rhythm — the DaDooRon Run 5K is ready to swing, bringing that smooth‑as‑butter blend of music, movement, and community back into the W.C. Handy Festival lineup. This race came roaring back last year, proving the rhythm never really left — it was just waiting for the downbeat. Now in 2026, we’re tuning up for an even bigger crowd, a louder cheer, and a whole lot more groove.
This isn’t just a run, it’s a stride‑for‑stride celebration of Florence Heritage and a Blues Legend; a chance to feel the pulse of the festival under your feet.; and a way to support the Music Preservation Society and Florence High School Cross‑Country Team with tempo and heart. So don’t wait for the encore, register now and claim your spot on the starting line.
Course Information
5K Course: USATF Certification #AL25019JE. Features rolling hills with a grade of <10%. All ages and paces are welcome; walkers are encouraged.
1 Mile Fun Run: Not certified.
SWAG, Medals and Prizes
- Race Shirt: Guaranteed for all runners registered before July 11th.
- Awards: For 5K Overall Male/Female, Masters (40+) Male/Female, GrandMasters (60+) Male/Female, and 1st, 2nd, 3rd place in Male/Female Age Groups (1-12, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+).
Aid Stations
- Two aid stations on the course. One at the START/FINISH line with hydration, first aid, snacks, and electrolytes. One on-course between mile 1 and 2 with water and first aid.
Schedule
- Early Packet Pick-up: Friday, July 17th, 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM at Solid Rock Running Company.
- Race Day Packet Pick-up & Registration: 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM at Burrell Slater School parking lot.
- Announcements & 5K Call to Start: 6:45 AM.
- 5K Race Start: 7:00 AM CT.
- Fun Run Start: 8:00 AM.
- Awards: 8:30 AM.
FAQ
- Beneficiary: The Music Preservation Society and Florence High School Cross‑Country Team.
- Race Day Arrival: Arrive before 6:30 AM if not picking up packet early.
- Race Day Registration: Available until 6:45 AM.
- Parking: Free parking available at Burrell Slater School.
- Strollers: Allowed at the back of the pack.
- Pets: Well-socialized, leashed dogs welcome at the back of the pack.
- Timing: Professionally RFID chip timed by Race Ready Events.