ANNISTON, AL — Organizers of the Publix Woodstock 5K have announced updates to the race’s elite running program, including the addition of a new high school elite division for the 2026 event.
The Publix Woodstock 5K, hosted annually by the Anniston Runners Club, will celebrate its 45th year on Aug. 1, 2026. The race is held each year on the first Saturday in August along Woodstock Avenue in Anniston.
The event also serves as the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) Alabama State 5K Championship. According to race organizers, this marks the 19th time the Woodstock 5K has hosted an RRCA championship event and the seventh time it has served as the Alabama State 5K Championship.
To encourage participation from area schools and support competitive running among student-athletes, organizers have introduced a high school elite program. The division will be limited to 20 participants, with final selections made by Race Director Landon Delozier.
To qualify, female high school runners must have a verified 5K time of 18:30 or faster, while male runners must have a verified time of 17:00 or faster. Eligible athletes are encouraged to contact race organizers before registering, as a discounted registration rate may be available.
Due to state athletic regulations, high school participants will not be able to directly accept cash prizes. However, any prize earnings may be donated to a school or other organization. Participants selected for the high school elite division will also receive a branded Woodstock running singlet.
The race will continue to offer an elite division for adult runners. Female elite runners must have a recent documented time of 17:30 or faster, while male elite runners must have a recent documented time of 16:00 or faster.
Organizers noted that while the race cannot provide embassy letters for international travel purposes, assistance with lodging may be available for elite runners traveling long distances.
Current course records for the Woodstock 5K are 14:05 for men, set by Patrick Cheptoek in 2013, and 16:06 for women, set by Risper Gesabwa in 2012.
Proceeds from the race are returned to the community through charitable giving. Beneficiaries include the Arc of Calhoun and Cleburne Counties, which supports individuals with disabilities and Special Olympics programs, the Regional Medical Center colorectal cancer research fund, and various school athletic programs.
Registration for the 2026 Publix Woodstock 5K is currently open.
For registration and event information, visit:
