NPSWC March for Sickle Cell In Person and Virtual 5K Run/Walk

The Neuse Pamlico Sound Women’s Coalition, Inc. (NPSWC), a 501 (c) 3 organization of professional women, is excited to announce the 10th annual 5K Run/Walk for Sickle Cell. This will be a hybrid run/walk consisting of an in-person and virtual 5k run/walk taking place March 14, 2026. The virtual participants must submit their timing information by end of the day on March 14th. “Why Sickle Cell?” Simple. SCD is a devastating blood disease affecting millions worldwide.

Greater than 100,000 are here in America. Each year, in NC about 120 infants are born with sickle cell disease and 4,000 infants are born with sickle cell trait or related trait SCD affects more than 5,000 patients and families in North Carolina. The disease occurs in about 1 of every 365 African American births and about 1 out of every 16,300 Hispanic-American births. In addition, people with SCD have less access to comprehensive care than people with many other genetic disorders. That is why we plan to use the money in our local communities. Together we will assist with treatment, transportation and the expense of other daily challenges that come with battling Sickle Cell. Your involvement will help highlight the importance of a community working together to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

PLEASE REGISTER FOR THE MARCH FOR SICKLE CELL 5K RUN/WALK TODAY!

 Registration fees:

**$30.00 EARLY BIRD SPECIAL – AVAILABLE UNTIL MIDNIGHT, JANUARY 24, 2026
Beat the crowds! Register EARLY and receive the following benefits: $5 DISCOUNT for 5K Run/Walk and GUARANTEED T-Shirt (Register by January 24th, 2026). T-shirts will only be mailed to virtual participants, if requested. All others will receive theirs in person.

**$35.00 - Regular Registration entry fee after 1/24/2026

**Ages 10 & under can register for only $15!

Military Discount:
We are proud to support our military men and women by offering a discounted rate of $25.00 for all military members who register during early bird registration. Use discount code "Military5off" to receive $5 off by 1/24/2026.

Early Packet Pickup will be from 3:00-6:30 at Coastal Sole, 4149 Dr. ML King , Jr. Blvd., New Bern NC on March 13th, 2026.

Awards:
Male and Female Winners will receive medals for 1st & 2nd places in the following age groups:  14& Under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60–69 and 70+

Any questions please contact Sheila at tcuthbertson1@outlook.com

                                          DOOR PRIZES WILL BE GIVEN AWAY!  

                                        REGISTER TODAY TO BE ELIGIBLE TO WIN!!

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON SPONSORSHIPS

CONTACT Sheila Cuthbertson at tcuthbertson1@outlook.com

VIRTUAL RUN

This year, we will be offering a virtual run.

How it Works
Sign up here (use the Sign Up button at the top of the page).
Print out your digital bib (from your Runsignup profile page) if you'd like.
Download the RaceJoy app for the best race experience.
Run your race at a place of your choosing (including a treadmill) before the deadline. If you use RaceJoy, it will automatically submit your results. If not, go to the results page and submit your time.

Virtual Race FAQs
What is a virtual run?

A virtual race is an event where you sign up and participate on a course of your choosing (or a treadmill). This is a great opportunity to work towards your running goals, stay healthy and support a great cause!

The event will feature a leaderboard so you can still see how you stack up against your fellow competitors!

Where do I run?

You can run at a course of your choosing, including on a treadmill. 

When do I run?

You can run (or walk) anytime on February 28 - March 14, 2026.

Will this race be timed?

The virtual run will not be officially timed, but by using the RaceJoy app, you can receive a GPS-based time which will automatically submit your time for you. There will be an online leaderboard showing everyone's times.

How do I post my results?

The easiest way is to use RaceJoy during the race! If you choose not to use RaceJoy, then you can visit the results page and click the "Submit Virtual Results" link at the top of the page.

This event is timed by Run the East! With professional race timing services and a focus on delivering accurate results, 
we’re here to make your race day seamless and enjoyable. Learn more at runtheeast.com.