Run for the Heartline

Race Information Date: June 7, 2026 Location: Clark Field (320 Clark Avenue) Time: 9:00am Race Day Registration: Opens at 8:00am Race Fees Early Registration: $35 May 23rd-June 7th (2 Weeks Prior to Race Day): $40 Awards Top 3 Finishers for Male and Female in the following age groups: 14 and under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70 and Over What you Get Run for the Heartline T-Shirt Organization Description Run for the Heartline is a community 5K dedicated to saving lives by raising awareness of aortic disease, including aortic aneurysm and aortic dissection, and supporting the patients and families affected by it. Your steps on race day help shine a light on a condition that is often misunderstood, frequently misdiagnosed, and too often fatal when not recognized in time. Aortic disease affects the body’s main blood vessel, the aorta, the high-pressure “heartline” that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. When the aortic wall weakens, it can balloon (aneurysm) or tear (dissection), leading to severe internal bleeding and a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate care. Many people living with aortic disease have no symptoms until a crisis occurs, which is why education, early diagnosis, and family screening are so critical. Aortic disease can affect anyone, from young adults to older people, and it does not always come with traditional “risk factor” warnings. Some individuals are at especially high risk, including those with a family history of aortic aneurysm or dissection, people with certain genetic or connective tissue conditions, and those with long-standing high blood pressure. Too many families first hear the words “aortic dissection” only after a sudden loss or near-fatal emergency, underscoring the need for greater public and medical awareness. The hopeful news is that many tragedies can be prevented. When aortic enlargement or disease is found early, through imaging, genetic evaluation, and appropriate specialist care, doctors can monitor the aorta closely and, when needed, perform planned surgery before a dissection occurs. Healthy lifestyle choices, such as controlling blood pressure, staying active, eating a heart-healthy diet, and avoiding smoking, also help protect the aorta and reduce overall cardiovascular risk. Run for the Heartline exists to turn awareness into action. Funds raised from this event support education about the signs, risks, and emergency symptoms of aortic dissection, encourage at-risk families to seek appropriate screening, and help advance research and advocacy so that more people receive timely diagnosis and care. By running, walking, volunteering, or donating, you honor those we have lost, stand with those living with aortic disease today, and help ensure more lives are saved through awareness and action.