Because of the Brave 5K
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Because of the Brave 5K : event details
Because of the Brave is a Memorial Day event on Monday, May 25, 2026, at American Village in Montevallo, Alabama (3727 Highway 119, GPS parking coordinates 33.137730, -86.829740). The event is organized by The Running Birds and hosted at American Village, with the Alabama National Cemetery adjacent to the site. The entry fee listed is $35.
The event is explicitly not a timed race. Each participant must carry a 2' x 3' American flag on a light pole for the entire 5K course. At the finish, participants exchange the carried flag for a custom Because of the Brave 5K challenge coin. No awards will be given to top finishers.
Course, logistics and fundraising
The course is a paved 1.55-mile loop marked with American flags; participants complete the loop twice to cover the 5K distance. Paved surfaces make strollers and wheelchairs welcome. Packet pickup is available on race day at the start/finish area near the main parking lots, and parking and restrooms will be accessible there.
One water station will be available near the start/finish area, with hydration at the halfway point and fruit at the finish. A portion of entry fees will be donated to the American Village and the Support Committee for the Alabama National Cemetery; additional donations may be made to those organizations. Refunds are not offered, but entries may be transferred or deferred. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.