12th Annual Run for the Ring

Join Us for the 12th Annual Run for the Ring 5K & Kids Fun Run!

Over the past 12 years, the Run for the Ring 5K & Kids Fun Run has brought together Barbara Davis Center patients, loyal type 1 supporters, and running enthusiasts to run for the brass ring – the cure for type 1 diabetes. All proceeds from the Run for the Ring will support the efforts and programs of the Children’s Diabetes Foundation, the fundraising arm of the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes focusing on patient support, awareness, and research.

About the Race

Run for the Ring features two different races. Runners, walkers, and strollers can participate in the professionally-timed 5K around the CU Anschutz Medical Campus. Runners of all levels and ages are welcome! Kids ages 2-10 can also participate in the Kids Fun Run, zooming around the Kids Zone while parents and loved ones cheer, high-five, and spray them with squirt guns. Before the Fun Run, kids are free to play in bounce houses, mazes, and other fun outdoor activities also featured in the Kids Zone. Whether you’re an avid runner or a parent looking for a fun family outing, you’re sure to enjoy yourself at Run for the Ring!

*Children under the age of 2 can attend the event for free and do not require registration.

Registration Information

Registration for both the 5K and Fun Run includes breakfast bites, timing chip (5K only), race bib, and Run for the Ring performance t-shirt. Those with type 1 diabetes will also have the option of receiving a special “I’m the 1” t-shirt, and all participants can decorate a back bib that says “Running for my 1” to honor their type 1 loved one! Must register by July 11, 2026 to guarantee a shirt. Top individual runners, teams, and fundraisers will also be recognized in the awards ceremony.

If you're unable to come to the event, try our Virtual 5K option! Run in your neighborhood, a local park, or your favorite trail anytime the week leading up to race day. Then tag us @cdfdiabetes in your social posts with #RunForTheRing2026 so we can see! 

Running not your thing? Our Sleep-In Registration allows you to donate to the cause without participating on event day, and includes a Run for the Ring performance t-shirt (mailed to the participant post-event).

Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Please bring another adult to watch your children while you are running. 

Previous runner? Please sign in using your RunSignUp account before registering for your event.

Packet Pick-Up

Friday, July 31, 2026, location TBD

Event Details

Saturday, August 1, 2026
Registration begins at 7 a.m.
5K begins at 8 a.m.
Kids Zone opens at 8 a.m.
Kids Fun Run begins after the 5K Awards Ceremony
Paid parking is available

Join fellow runners on August 1, 2026 for the 12th Annual Run for the Ring. It's a fantastic 5K featuring a flat and fast course in Aurora.