The Great Train Race
About this race
The Great Train Race has been a tradition in Fredericksburg Virginia for over 30 years! The event is one of the largest timed kid’s races on the east coast. Young runners get the rare opportunity to compete in a race just for them.
This year's race will be held on May 3rd.
The race starts near the Fredericksburg Train Station and runs through historic downtown. Runners cross the Crown Trophy Finish Line at the City Docks. Runners and families are invited to the Race Festival located in the commuter lot behind the Train Station for awards, music, vendors, and treats.
The race consists of 3 events for kids under 18:
The 1-mile Express for ages 6 to 17
The 1/2-mile George Dashington for ages 10 and under
The 1/4-mile Caboose Run for ages 5 and under
The Express and George Dashington will be chip timed races. The Caboose Run is a fun run and will not be timed.
All runners receive a finishers medal and race shirt (shirts are only guaranteed when registered before April 1st).
Join fellow runners on May 3, 2026 for the The Great Train Race. It's a fantastic 1.6K, 0.8K, 0.4K featuring a flat and fast course in Fredericksburg.
Pick your distance
Running
Express 1 Mile - (6 to 17)
All runners in the Express 1 Mile must run unassisted. No parents will be permitted on the course for this event. Runners must run in their assigned heat based on age and sex or risk being dropped from the standings.
George Dashington 1/2 Mile - (10 & under)
Runners must run in their assigned heat based on age and sex or risk being dropped from the standings.
Caboose Run 1/4 Mile - (5 & under)
A non-timed fun run. Parents are welcome to participate with their runner.
Weather Overview
These values represent the 7-year monthly averages for May in Fredericksburg.
About Fredericksburg
The Great Train Race takes place in Fredericksburg, Virginia, United States. The local timezone is America/New_York.
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🏃 Plan Your Next Race in Fredericksburg
Find upcoming events by distance:
- Fredericksburg 5K Races Best Fredericksburg routes for beginners and speed work.
- 10K Run Events in Fredericksburg The most popular local distance in Virginia.
- Fredericksburg Half Marathons Top-rated 21.1K courses in the Fredericksburg area.
- Fredericksburg Running Calendar 2026 See all upcoming race dates.
Race information has been sourced from the event's official website and other publicly available resources. For the most up-to-date details, please refer to the official website directly. If you notice any incorrect or missing information, don't hesitate to reach out to us by email.
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