Run for the Ring

Run for the Ring 5K Run/Walk and Kids Fun Run brings together Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes patients, loyal supporters, and running enthusiasts to run for the brass ring – the cure. All proceeds from this event will support the efforts and programs of the Children’s Diabetes Foundation.

Run for the Ring features two different races. Runners, walkers, and strollers can participate in the professionally timed 5K around the Anschutz Medical Campus. Starting and finishing at the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, 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 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Please bring another adult to watch your children while you are running.

Run for the Ring 2026 is on Saturday, August 1st. Registration begins at 7am. The Kids' Zone opens at 8am, and the 5K also begins at 8am. The Kids Fun Run begins directly after the 5K Awards Ceremony.

The event is held at The Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes on the CU Anschutz Medical Campus. 1775 Aurora Court; Aurora, Colorado 80045.

Registration for both the 5K and Fun Run includes breakfast bites, a timing chip (5K only), race bib, and a Run for the Ring souvenir 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! 

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).

 Early-Bird Registration (May 15 to June 26, 2026): Adult 5K $37.50, Kid 5K/Fun Run $14.50

 Regular Registration (June 27 to July 28, 2026): Adult 5K $42.50, Kid 5K/Fun Run $17.50

 Last Call Registration (July 29 to August 1, 2026): Adult 5K $47.50, Kid 5K/Fun Run $20.50

Yes! Creating a team is a ton of fun for everyone! Enjoy race day with your friends, family, or co-workers by making up a unique team name, creating a fun team t-shirt, or wearing matching costumes! Click here to learn more about creating a team for the Run for the Ring 5K & Kids Fun Run. 

The Run for the Ring isn’t just for fun – it also allows you to make a difference for people affected by type 1 diabetes. Not sure where to start fundraising or feeling a little shy about asking for people to support your cause? Click here for some tips for setting up your Run for the Ring fundraising page and sharing it with your friends and family.

Run for the Ring has several sponsorship levels and exhibitor booths available for you and your business to partner with us. Sponsoring this event or becoming an exhibitor provides a significant opportunity to showcase your brand to a highly engaged audience, all while supporting the mission of the Children's Diabetes Foundation. To learn more and reserve your sponsorship or exhibitor booth, download our sponsorship packet below or contact Mackenzie Atencio at 303.628.5116 or Mackenzie@ChildrensDiabetesFoundation.org.

Support your type 1 loved one or cheer on your favorite runner with a personalized yard sign honorarium! 

Honorariums will be set up along the race course on event day by event staff. Once the race is over, you can take your special sign home! (Must purchase by July 19th.)

Want to volunteer for our Run for the Ring 5K and Kids Fun Run at the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes? We'd love to have you! There are a variety of time slots and roles available, and each volunteer receives a free CDF Volunteer t-shirt! All volunteers between ages 13-17 must be accompanied by a parent or chaperone who will also help at the event. Email Sydney@ChildrensDiabetesFoundation.org for more information.  

Yes! Winners will be recognized at the Awards Ceremony following the 5K for the following categories and age groups:  

Overall Winner (Men, Women, Non-Binary)

Top Individual Fundraiser

Largest Team

Overall T1D Winners

12 & Under: Girls

12 & Under: Boys

13 – 17: Girls

13 – 17: Boys

18 – 29: Women

18 – 29: Men

30 – 39: Women

30 – 39: Men

40 – 49: Women

40 – 49: Men

50 – 59: Women

50 – 59: Men

60 –69: Women

60 – 69: Men

70+: Women

70+: Men

The awards ceremony will also recognize top individual runners, teams, and fundraisers.