Raptor 5K 2026

The Raptor 5K utilizes Lake Lure Classical Academy’s cross-country course, making it a school-based trail race rather than a road 5K with some dirt sections. It takes place in October in Lake Lure, North Carolina. The 5K trail run begins at the academy, and a shorter fun run shares the same finish area. This race is part of the ROC Race Series and provides outdoor recreation and adventure equipment for LLCA students in 4th grade and older. The 5K course winds through sections of the LLCA campus, Dittmer-Watts Nature Trails, and the Lake Lure Greenspace. Its technical footing is substantial enough that pets and strollers are prohibited. Age groups range from young children to over 70, with a reduced entry rate for runners aged 18 and under. The field is designed for families, students, and local trail runners. The event was initially planned for an earlier date but had a previous edition canceled due to Hurricane Helene, leading to its first running being part race day and part a community restart for the school.