Hilltop U.S.A. 5K
Date: Saturday, July 4, 2026
Welcome to the Hilltop U.S.A. 5K, the longest-running race on the Hilltop! This event supports the American Legion Don Gentile Post 532 Honor Guard and the Columbus Westside Running Club (CWRC).
Giving Back with Every Step
A portion of every registration and all donations benefit the American Legion Honor Guard. Your entry fees empower the CWRC, a vibrant, free running community. Learn more at www.cwrunclub.com.
Race Perks
For a $35 registration fee (through 3/31), participants receive a race shirt and a collector's medal. Awards are available for age groups and the ruck race.
Who Can Join?
Open to all runners, walkers, and ruckers. Dogs are not permitted for the safety of participants.
Heavy "Ruck Run" Division
A challenge of strength and endurance. Male participants must carry a 35lb+ rucksack, and female participants a 20lb+ rucksack, following Go Ruck guidelines. Special awards for top finishers.
Registration & Packet Pickup
No race day registration.
- Early Packet Pickup: Friday, July 3rd, 11 AM - 3 PM at American Legion Post 532 (1571 Demorest Rd, Columbus, OH 43228).
- Race Day Pickup: Saturday, July 4th, starting at 7 AM at 2833 Valleyview Dr, Columbus, OH 43204.
Race Day Timeline (Saturday, July 4th)
- 7:00 AM: Packet Pickup Begins
- 7:45 AM: Flag-Raising Ceremony & Pre-Race Announcements
- 7:55 AM: March to the Start Line
- 8:00 AM: Hilltop U.S.A. Standard 5K Start
- 8:03 AM: Hilltop U.S.A. Ruck Race 5K Kickoff
- 9:00 AM: Awards Ceremony
Virtual Race Timeline (Friday, July 3rd - Monday, July 6th)
Complete your 5K distance from any location.
RUNColumbus Race Series
This event is part of the 2026 RUNColumbus Race Series. More details at https://runcolumbusraceseries.com/.
Heavy "Ruck Run" Division Rules
Participants must be 18+. Rucksack requirements: Male 35lb+, Female 20lb+. GoRuck Plate Carriers permitted if weight is met. Weights must be secured. Weighted vests not permitted. Course path must be followed. Water stations available. Proper trash disposal required. Follow race official instructions. Headphones discouraged. Non-participant assistance is not allowed. Medical and race officials can pull participants. Checkpoints and final weigh-in for awards. All finishers receive a medal; top three male/female receive special awards. No specific footwear requirements. Rules subject to amendment.
In-Person Location: Glenwood United Methodist Church
Virtual Location: Anywhere, USA
