It's time for the Rare Strides 5k, 10k, 15k, Half Marathon on Sunday, June 14th, 2026.  This event is a fundraiser for Rare Disease Advocates.

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Rare Disease Advocates (RDA) is a nonprofit organization founded by a diverse coalition of healthcare professionals dedicated to improving the diagnosis, treatment, and overall experience of individuals facing rare and complex diseases. We empower both healthcare providers and patients through education, advocacy, support, and innovation—creating lasting change in healthcare delivery and equity.

 

While our roots are in rare diseases, our mission has grown to address gaps in care across all underserved or misunderstood disease states. By equipping providers with tools for early recognition and evidence-based management—and by offering patients the support and resources they deserve—we bridge the gap between diagnosis and compassionate, effective care.

At RDA, our mission is to:
Educate Providers: Deliver expert-led training and educational programs and clinical tools to enhance provider understanding of diagnosis and optimal treatment.
Provide Financial Support: Offer inclusive, financial support for those navigating complex healthcare journeys.
Raise Awareness: Increase public and clinical understanding of underrecognized diseases, while spotlighting the challenges faced by patients and families.
Advocate for Change: Champion health policy, research funding, and systemic improvements that benefit both rare disease communities and other overlooked populations.

 

RDA'S donation portal: https://rarediseaseadvocates.org/donations/

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This is an open course.  Please be courteous to other pedestrians, runners, and cyclists on the beach path.

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Course map: The course is super easy to follow.  It will consist of out and back loops on the beach path that will be marked.

* Aid station is at the turn around at the start/finish has water cups, water bottles, Gatorade cups, Gu gels.

 

* 5k out and back route  http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6508571

* 10k  2 x 5k loops

* 15k 3 x 5k loops 

* Half marathon 3 x 4.36 mi loop: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6508573

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Included in registration — 

- custom finisher medals

- drawstring goodie bags

- free photos & videos

- results posted on the website within 12-24 hours of event

- assortment of snacks, samples

- friendly, relaxed, fun, and personal racing experience for all levels and abilities 

- affordable cost and fun for the whole family! 

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Transfers only by emailing abetterworldrunning@gmail.com requesting a later date or transferring to another participant.  There is a NO refund policy.

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3:15 time limit for the half marathon.  If more time is needed, please email us at abetterworldrunning@gmail.com for early start.

 

Bib pick up -- 6:45-7:30AM 

Start - 7:30AM

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Date - Monday, May 25th, 2026​

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Early bird pricing one month before race date - 5k $23.99, 10k $28.99, 15k $32.99, Half marathon $38.99 ($1 less on active.com due to processing fees)

Race month pricing - 5k $25.99, 10k $30.99, 15k $35.99, Half marathon $40.99​

Race day registration - cash, venmo, zelle or paypal 5k $30, 10k $35, 15k $40, half marathon $45

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Volunteer for a free race entry -- you can bring a friend or family member to volunteer while you participate, or volunteer for a future free entry.  Email here to confirm information -- abetterworldrunning@gmail.com

 

Address - * Please check in at the tables closest to 54th Place, at the start of the beach path.  NOT near Claremont Ave.  Long Beach path in Belmont Shores -- 5400 E. Ocean Blvd. Long Beach, CA 90803 (off of 54th Place and Ocean Blvd.) 

Google Maps -- https://maps.app.goo.gl/UfTqRHkQZdbvfR5f9

 

Start Map - Please see images below

 

Parking -  Parking is free in the residential area.  There is beach parking lot that is paid in advance by ticket machine.