Johns Hopkins Below the Belt Stride and Thrive 5K

Join us in celebrating our 10-year anniversary on Sunday, June 7, 2026 at the Maryland Zoo for our milestone Below the Belt Stride and Thrive 5K Presented by The Bernstein Companies. 

Over the past decade, our incredible community has raised more than $1.3 million to support groundbreaking gynecologic cancer research, education and clinical care at Johns Hopkins Kelly Gynecologic Oncology Service – where specialized care doubles survival rates.

This National Cancer Survivors Day®, wear your best purple as we celebrate a decade of hope, progress, lives saved and lives remembered. Cancer survivors, families, healthcare heroes and supporters will unite at this extraordinary venue for our biggest celebration yet, complete with special anniversary activities and the chance to stride past zebras and giraffes while making history in the fight against below-the-belt cancers.

Whether you walk, run or cheer, every step supports innovative treatments that transform research into life-saving care.

Fundraiser Awards

During our post-race onstage program, awards will be given out to the top 3 individual fundraisers and the top 3 fundraising teams. The winners will be based on the final fundraising total as shown on the individual or team fundraising pages as of Friday, May 31, 2025 at 11:59 PM.

Finisher Awards

This race is professionally timed and managed by Blue Cheetah Sports Timing, LLC. Finisher

The Awards Ceremony will take place at the Main Stage at 10:00 AM. Age group winners will receive an official branded Below the Belt Stride & Thrive finisher medal. Only the Overall Winners from the 5K will be awarded at the ceremony. 

Only overall top 3 male, female, and non-binary finishers will be recognized on stage. Other age group winners can pick up their medals at the award area.  Medals not picked up onsite will be mailed out within 30 days post-event.

Age group categories are as follows:

• Top 3 male, female and non-binary overall
• Top 3 male and female in the following age group categories: 14 & under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+

VIRTUAL PARTICIPANTS ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR RACE AWARDS.   Awards will be issued to those who complete the official course live on race day.

Schedule of Events:

7:00 a.m.        Race Day Check-in/packet pick-up opens
                       All onsite activities and Event Village tents open
7:55 a.m.       On-stage Program begins
8:30 a.m.       5K Run/1 Mile Walk starts
9:30 a.m.       Post race ceremony begins (top fundraisers, teams, Survivor Impact and Advocacy                                Award, and finisher awards)
10:00 a.m.     Meet Animal Ambassador 1
10:15 a.m.     Meet Animal Ambassador 2
11:00 a.m.     Onsite activities, vendor tents close, event ends

 

Event Village Activities:

• Education and Resources: Visit our hospital partner tents for valuable education materials and resources about below-the-belt health conditions.

• The first 200 participants to visit the 2Moms Media sponsor tent will receive a free branded beach ball – the perfect summer souvenir!

  Health and Wellness: Stop by Patient First's tent for complimentary blood pressure checks to ensure you're race-ready.

• Bring the little ones for a morning of fun kids activities featuring:

• Face painting and glitter tattoos by Vivid Colors

• Fairy hair sparkles by Magical Mysteries

• Creative kids crafts

• Main Stage Program: Our special event program begins at 7:55 a.m. sharp on the main stage and will include special guest speakers Dr. Redonda Miller, Dr. Andrew Satin and Dr. Rebecca Stone.

• Animal Ambassadors: Meet two of our zoo friends on site from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

• Post-Race Program: Our Survivor Impact and Advocacy Award, Julie Smith Courage Award, top fundraisers and team awards, and top finisher medals will be presented starting at 9:30 a.m.

Do I need to register my child?
Children under the age of 2 are free and do not need to register for the race.

 

Can I run with my child, a stroller, pet, or headphones?

Yes, you are welcome to run on the course with your child and stroller.  If you're running with a stroller, please line up in the LAST RACE WAVE.  Be aware that the race course has varied surfaces and we recommend a jogging stroller that can easily push over a variety of terrain.

Pets are not allowed unless they are a certified service animal.  We encourage you to read the Zoo’s Service Animal Guide prior to arrival.

Headphones are permitted on the race route but please be vigilant of your surroundings as there will be many children and strollers.  

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Outside food and drink are not permitted.  We will have food and drink provided onsite for all ages.  

 

Is my t-shirt included?
Yes, each registration includes a t-shirt (except for the Virtual – no t-shirt/free option). 

 

Can I use my zoo ticket for another day?
Paid registration includes one single entry into the zoo which is only valid on June 1, 2025. Should participants wish to revisit the zoo exhibits post-race, there will be the option for participants to receive a wristband onsite which will allow reentry.

 

Is everyone a fundraiser?
It is not a requirement to fundraise for the event, but each participant has the option during registration to set up a fundraising page or team page. All funds raised support the work of the Johns Hopkins Kelly Gynecologic Oncology Service. Their team does not receive financial support from other areas of the hospital and solely relies on philanthropy to fund majority of their research, education, and clinical care efforts. Fundraising is highly encouraged.

 

How do I create a team?
Creating a team is the last option through the registration process. We have a participant guide, under race info, that can walk you through the process.

 

Is parking provided?
Yes, there is free parking onsite at the Maryland Zoo. All parking is a short distance to the registration area. However, if a participant needs to be dropped off closer to registration there is a paved area which will allow you to do so.

 
Can anyone join my team?
Yes, anyone can join your team.  Send them your team's fundraising link to get them to register.  Or they can search for your team as the last step when registering.  If you have registered and would like to be moved onto someone's team, email GynObHopkins@jhmi.edu and we will switch you over. 

 

How do I get my race packet?
We will provide a location for individuals and teams to pick up their race packet before race day.  Or you can come early and get your packet on race day at the Maryland Zoo.  

If you registered as a virtual participant, with a t-shirt, we will ship you your race packet. Virtual participants must register by a specific date in order to guarantee their t-shirt prior to race day. Please check back for deadlines.

 

Can I register on race day?
Yes, we will have onsite registration available. The price of same day registration will be $50. However, if you register after May 1st, we cannot guarantee your preferred t-shirt size.  We encourage early registration to ensure a spot and avoid higher fees. 

 
What time does the race start? 
The 5K run/1 mile walk starts promptly at 8:30 am.  Please ensure that you provide enough time to park and walk from the parking lot to the race start line.  

 

Are there water stations along the route?
Yes, there will be water stations along the route.  Exact locations will be specified as we get closer to the event. 

 
What happens if it rains?
The event will take place rain or shine. 

 

How are race results provided?
Results will be emailed out to participants after the event by the race company.

 
Is there a lost and found?
Johns Hopkins is not responsible for lost items on race day.  However, we will hold onto items that are left.  If you have lost something please reach out to GynObHopkins@jhmi.edu. 

 
Is the race course accessible for wheelchairs and other mobility devices?
Yes, the race course is accessible for participants using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. If you need special accommodations, please contact GynObHopkins@jhmi.edu so that we can ensure these are appropriately accounted for in advance of the event. 

 

Can I bring a guide or assistant?
Yes, participants with disabilities are welcome to bring a guide or assistant. Please inform us in advance at GynObHopkins@jhmi.edu if you plan to bring a guide.

Your fundraising efforts can transform lives in the fight against gynecologic cancers. When you register for the Below the Belt Stride & Thrive 5K, you'll have the opportunity to create your own fundraising page or join forces with a team – making an even bigger impact together. While there's no minimum requirement, we encourage participants to aim for $100 or more in fundraising.

The statistics are sobering: every 4.6 minutes, another woman receives a gynecologic cancer diagnosis. With over 110,000 women affected annually in the United States alone, these cancers touch all of our lives – our mothers, sisters, daughters, and friends.

Your fundraising directly supports critical initiatives at Johns Hopkins' Kelly Gynecologic Oncology Service. Last year's funds made incredible impacts, from supporting fellow and nursing education to providing transportation assistance for patients in active treatment. We funded groundbreaking research and maintained essential support services through the Susan L. Burgert, M.D. Survivorship Program.

Every dollar you raise helps advance cutting-edge research, ensures comprehensive patient support, and brings us closer to better outcomes for women facing these challenging diagnoses. Whether you raise $100 or $1,000, you're making a real difference in the lives of women fighting gynecologic cancers.

Ready to make an impact? Set up your fundraising page during registration and start sharing your commitment to this vital cause!

Download the "How to Register" guide

Download the "How to Create a Team" guide

Download the "How to Join a Team" guide

This year, we will be offering fundraising incentives to participants who raise $100, $250, $500, and $1,000+ dollars! 

Pick up your incentive(s) at the Incentive Tent on race day which will be located in the event village.

Locations/Dates for both individual and team pick-up:

• May 31: Maryland Zoo, Council Grove Pavilion, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.*

• June 1: Maryland Zoo, Council Grove Pavilion, 7 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

Day of registration costs will be increased to $50 for 5K/1Mile

 

ADVANCED TEAM PACKET PICK-UP INFORMATION

If you'd like to pick up packets for you entire team in advance, fill out this form no later than 11 pm on Tuesday, May 27. Please read important team pick-up guidelines below:

• It is recommended to have a team representative pickup on Saturday, May 31 to ensure you have all of your shirts prior to race day for your team. If this is not possible, please visit the Team Pick-Up/FAQ table on Sunday morning by 7:30am to pick up for your team.

• Teams requesting pick up will have packets stuffed for all team members that have registered by that date. Anyone who registers on your team on May 28 or later is responsible for picking up their packet on their own either at early packet pick-up on Saturday, May 31 or on race day, Sunday, June 1.

• By confirming you team pick up below you are agreeing to pick up for all members of your teams (registered by May 27) and distribute their bibs and t-shirts on or before race day. We will not be able to check anyone on your team in on race day if you have already picked up their items. It is your responsibility to message this information to your team!

• A list of team members and their corresponding bib number and t-shirt size will be printed and included in your box of items so you can easily distribute these to your team members.

Warriors Walk: A Special Way to Honor Your Loved Ones

Looking for a meaningful way to honor someone special in your life who has been impacted by gynecologic cancer? Visit our new "Warriors Walk" area in the vendor village during race day!

Complimentary blank lawn signs will be available at early packet pick-up on *Saturday, May 31 at the Maryland Zoo on a first-come first-served basis. Take a sign home to decorate that evening then bring it back on race day to place along our Warriors Walk pathway. We'll provide decorative items at packet pick-up to help with your creation.

You're welcome to design and print your own Warrior Walk lawn sign. We suggest including a photo, name, meaningful dates and/or a special quote.

Purple Heroes Club members are participants who raise $1,000 or more on their personal fundraising page. Purple Heroes Club members receive the following benefits: Special recognition on the race website, social media, select race communications, and event day announcements; Name listed on Purple Heroes Club event day banner (must reach $1,000 by May 22 to be included); and exclusive branded race apparel: Sport-Tek® Sport-Wick® Stretch ¼ zip pullover!

 

Congratulations to our 2025 Purple Heroes Club members!
 
Lindsay Bow
Suzanne Bunuan Riley
Shellie Davis
The Duber Family
Liz Jamieson-Dunne
Ruth Flaherty
Elizabeth Fox-Solomon
Karen Heilman
Jason Lowy
Eileen O’Neill
Jeanne Pidot
Philip Pidot 
Whitney Pidot, Jr. 
Whitney Pidot, Sr.
Paula Protani
Chris Riley
Cindy Smith
Becky Stone
Karen Stoddard
Quin Stoddard-O’Neill
Seth Thayer Pidot
Amanda Tomaj
Leigh Wheeler
Anna Williams
Erin Wright

Download the official Purple Heroes Club Flier

 

 

We could not make the event a success without the support and tireless efforts of our volunteer race committee. A very special thank you to all of the amazing committee volunteers who make this possible.

2025 Below the Belt Stride & Thrive 5K Race Committee

Ruth Berman
Shellie Davis
Brant Duber
David Duber
Jonathan Duber
Melissa Falen
Kelsey Flaherty
Elizabeth Fox-Solomon
Stacia Gallagher
Margie Gioia
Liz Jamieson-Dunne
Saana Kataria
Linda Lee
Anne Monger
Eileen O'Neill
Chris Riley
Suzanne Riley
Cindy Smith
Karen Stoddard
Jane Yao

Want to make a difference and meet others who are personally connected to the cause? Join our race committee! Check out our Committee Guide to learn more about the areas of support. Volunteer can sign up to lead a specific volunteer area, join a sub-committee, or help out with whatever tasks they are able to. To learn more, please contact Ashley Ostrega at aostreg1@jhmi.edu.

The 5K and 1-Mile race routes will go through the Maryland Zoo animal exhibits.

 

1 mile course:

 

5K course:

Download the "Team Captain Guide"

Download the "Participant Guide"

Download the "Fundraising Center Guide"

Donations by Check:

Download the Offline Donation Form. Please send your completed form with payment to:
Fund for Johns Hopkins Medicine
Women’s and Children’s Health - Attn: Ashley Ostrega
750 East Pratt Street, Suite 1700
Baltimore, MD 21287

The Below the Belt: Stride & Thrive 5K is an event to honor and remember loved ones diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer. We consider someone a survivor from the day of their diagnosis. If you would like to be recognized as a survivor on event day, there will be an option to do so during the registration process.

One event day, there will be special activities and perks for all attending survivors. These include:

Access the Survivor Tent

• Complimentary hot breakfast starting at 7:00 a.m., donated by Apple Spice Catering Co.

• Bring up to 2 guests in the tent with you

• Exclusive swag bag

• Shaded seating area (high-top and round tables) for rest breaks

   

Race Day Recognition

• Special teal "Survivor" t-shirt when you check in—wear it proudly!

• Julie Smith Courage Award for the first-place survivor finisher in the 5K

• Survivor group photo between 8:10-8:20 a.m. in front of the stage (we will call survivors up when it’s time)

There is free onsite parking at the zoo with ample handicap spaces. While the parking lot is a very short walk to the registration area, should any survivors need to be dropped off there is a paved road to do so which will take them directly to the registration tent located in front of the zoo entrance.

Enhance Your Virtual Race Experience with RaceJoy

RaceJoy is a free app designed to make your virtual race experience more interactive and fun! With RaceJoy, you can track your progress in real time, receive cheers from friends and family, and hear helpful audio cues along the way. It also lets you automatically submit your time, so there’s no need to upload anything after your run.

To get started, download the RaceJoy app and follow the instructions to set up your race. Need help? Check out the RaceJoy How-To Guide for step-by-step directions.

Watch the RaceJoy video tutorial

 

1 Mile Run/Walk: T-Shirt

Virtual Run/Walk with T-shirt: Race T-Shirt

5K Run: Race T-Shirt