Long Beach Race for Rare 5K Run & Walk Event 2026

The Long Beach Race for Rare is a 5K run and walk held at Granada Launch Ramp on East Ocean Boulevard in Long Beach, California. The morning features a timed 5K run, a 5K walk, a virtual 5K option, and a picnic-only entry for those wishing to support the cause without participating in the course. Local hosts Lynn and Scott Hopkins coordinate the event with the National MPS Society, with proceeds benefiting that group’s efforts for families affected by MPS and ML conditions. The event begins with onsite registration, packet pickup, and pre-race entertainment prior to the 5K. It then proceeds to awards, a raffle, and a beachside picnic with lunch included in registration. The cause is the primary motivation for attendance: rare diseases impact approximately 10% of Americans, fewer than 5% have an FDA-approved treatment, and many children with rare conditions pass away at a young age. This is a community race, not an elite competition, centered on families, local supporters, walkers, runners, and individuals raising awareness for rare disease care and research.