AJ Howard Memorial 5K

AJ Howard Memorial 5K

Sat January 24, 2026

Belton, TX 76513 US

Race Info

Our annual AJ Howard Memorial 5K is back and ready for action. Lace up and get ready to bring the community together for an unforgettable day of fitness & fun. Whether you’re walking with friends, or racing for the grand finish, you’re part of something amazing. Let’s run, cheer, and make a difference together! Our 5K brings together runners of all levels for a morning filled with encouragement, good vibes, and community spirit. We’ll have delicious food trucks, FREE Black Rifle Coffee, and an awesome bib drawing for all registered runners! Don’t miss out—sign up now to support a great cause and score a race T-shirt, loaded swag bag, and a shot at winning incredible prizes!

This race will offer an in-person 5K and a sleep-in 5K (for those wishing to support the band who are unable to run or just wish to stay home). Registrants age 18 & under will receive a reduced price.

The AJ Howard Memorial Fund

The AJ Howard Memorial Fund was established in May of 2016. AJ was tragically taken from his family in an auto accident. In lieu of flowers at his memorial service, AJ’s mother asked that any money be donated to the Belton High School Marching Band (M100) to help pay the band fees for those students who would benefit from the support of available funds. These donations covered the cost of equipment, uniforms, instruments & private lesson fees for many M100 band members, making it possible for all M100 members to have what they need to not only participate, but also excel in band. The Belton Band Boosters continue to support M100 students through the memory and spirit of AJ Howard and his family by hosting a Memorial 5K. It is an annual celebratory event and primary fundraiser. All funds raised through the 5K are solely used to provide equipment, uniforms, instruments & private lesson fees for students who otherwise would not be able to participate in band. AJ had a servant's heart and was well loved by his fellow band members. He will not be forgotten. Through the AJ Howard Memorial Fund his spirit of generosity lives on and will continue to impact the lives of M100 members for many years to come.

Race Series & Awards

The in-person 5K is part of the Cen-Tex Race Series. All participants will earn Cen-Tex Race Series points. Awards to the top overall male and female finishers, and the top three male and female finishers per age group. Age groups: 11&U, 12-15, 16-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69 & 70+.

Course Map

The 5K is an out and back course on the Belton Hike & Bike Trail. Starting at the Liberty Park open field across from BCYC.

Sponsors

A big thank you to our sponsors for their generous contributions and donations. We attribute great deal of our success from these events to their hard work and dedication.

Registration & T-Shirt Guarantee

PLEASE register by January 10th in order to guarantee a T-Shirt. Limited supply will be available on Race Day for all registrants after January 10th, 2026.