Strong Shall Stand 5K Run & Ruck

Strong Shall Stand 5K Run & Ruck takes place in Longview, Texas, on November 14, 2026. The 5K (3.1 miles) starts at 8:30 AM, preceded by a Kids' Dash at 8:25 AM. The event honors those who protect and serve their communities and supports mental health services for veterans, active-duty military, first responders, and healthcare professionals through Operation True North. Registration includes a custom T-shirt, a chip-timed bib, and a finisher medal.

The "ruck" in the name means you can cover the distance carrying a weighted pack rather than running light, which changes the preparation. If you plan to ruck, build up gradually over several weeks, starting with a light load on short walks before adding weight or distance, and pay attention to how your pack sits on your shoulders and hips. If you are running it, treat it as a standard road 5K: three sessions a week, one of them at a brisk pace. The kids' race lets families be part of the event, in keeping with its community focus.