Pet Rescue Run/Walk 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk

Welcome to the Pet Rescue Run!!  This 5k is for animal lovers and 5k enthusiast.  Please join us at the beautiful Columbus County Park in Columbus Michigan.  This is an officially timed trail run/walk that includes 100% grass and dirt trails.  You will encounter rocks, roots, an elevation incline/decline of approximately 55 feet and possible muddy conditions.  This is a rain or shine event.

Want to participate, but not sure about completing a 5k?  Then the 1 Mile Fun Run option (not officially timed) with minimal elevation change is for you!!

Teams

You can participate as an individual or a team.  Why join a team? Make an impact!!  Friendly competition, race against other teams to be the top fundraiser for bragging rights!  Top fundraising team captain will receive a commemorative mug.  Every dollar raised goes to animal rescues in Michigan.

Our Purpose

The Pet Rescue Run has been initiated as a way to honor the legacy of our loved one, JoAnne Aebi.  JoAnne had an unwavering passion for animals and a deep desire to make a positive impact on their well-being.  This annual fundraiser supports J & J Furry Friend Foundation, a 501c(3) and will assist in carrying out her unfinished work.  The mission of this organization is to help Michigan based animal rescues by way of providing much needed supplies and funds.  Proceeds from this event will go directly toward this cause.  In the past two years we've raised over $10,000 that has assisted numerous different local rescues. 

Prizes

Enter to win a $50 gift card and other fun prizes by bringing a bag of pet food, dog treats, dog toys, bleach, paper towels, or pet bed.  The more items you bring the more chances you have to win.

After the race, please join us for award prize announcements for 1st & 2nd male and female finishers as well as age category prizes for the 5K.  All Finishers will receive a medal after the race.  Post race water and snack provided by Marsack and Marshall Real Estate Team.  Cupcakes provided by Meijer to celebrate what would have been JoAnne's 54th birthday.

Race Check-in

Race check-in from 9am-10am.  5k race begins at 10:30am, 1mile shortly after.

• Friendly dogs welcome.
• Jogging/running stroller only at your own discretion

All participants who register before 4/15/2026 will receive an event t-shirt.  For registrations received after 4/15/2026, t-shirts are available on a first come, first serve basis, while supplies last.  If you DO NOT want a shirt, please select "opt out" or no shirt from the drop down menu when registering.

Please contact Jayme @ bencorn5555@comcast.net with questions.

Join fellow runners on May 17, 2026 for the Pet Rescue Run/Walk 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk. It's a fantastic 5K, 1.6K featuring a flat and fast course in Columbus.