Joe LaRocco 5K and 1K Elementary School Run 2026

The Joe LaRocco 5K and Elementary School 1K are early-fall cross-country races held at Green Hill Park in Salem, Virginia. These events are part of the larger Knights Crossing Cross Country Invitational, organized by Cave Spring High School. The 5K begins in the morning and is open to coaches, parents, alumni, home-schooled athletes, and the general public. The 1K is designated for elementary students in first through fifth grade. The overall meet attracts thousands of runners from multiple states for 11 races, positioning these shorter public races within a full day of school cross country, distinct from a stand-alone road race. The courses are flat and fast, consisting entirely of grass and gravel, making the 5K suitable for participants aiming for a quick early-fall time. Runners may also form co-ed teams, with cross-country scoring and awards contingent on at least five finishers. Awards are presented to the top overall men and women, top masters runners, and the fastest male and female coaches. The race commemorates Joe LaRocco, the former Cave Spring cross-country and track coach, who also taught History and Government for over thirty years and served as a USATF official and race starter for more than 20 years. Registered 5K participants receive a race T-shirt while supplies last, and elementary runners are given a shirt and medal.