Running with Sasquatch 5k

Running with Sasquatch 5k

Saturday, Apr 11, 2026

8520 Dayton Pike, Soddy Daisy, TN

Registration closes: Thu, Apr 9 @ 11:59PM ET

Running with Sasquatch is Ivy Academy’s annual trail race and community fundraiser, set against the scenic backdrop of the North Chickamauga Creek. Whether you choose to run, walk, ruck, or sleep in, there is an option for everyone to participate and support Ivy Academy students.

The Running with Sasquatch 5K begins on the campus of Ivy Academy and follows an out-and-back trail course along the North Chickamauga Creek. The trail is approximately 4-5 feet wide and accommodates two-way traffic. Participants should expect a true trail-running experience, including:

• Possible creek crossings
• Standing water
• Possible fallen trees
• Rugged, uneven terrain

The turnaround point is Pride Rock. Ivy Academy staff will be positioned along the trail to help guide and supervise runners. Participants are encouraged to bring their own water supply, especially those planning to walk or hike the course. Those who beat Sasquatch will earn an “I Whooped Sas’” trucker hat.

About Ivy Academy

Ivy Academy is a tuition-free public school in Hamilton County, grades 6 - 12. The mission of Ivy Academy is to provide a quality educational program with an emphasis on scholarship, environmental stewardship, and volunteerism for all students, and to prepare them to influence society and nature in positive ways. Ivy Academy is a tuition-free public charter middle and high school, currently serving grades 6-12 in Soddy Daisy, TN. We are adjacent to the North Chickamauga Creek and are able to take full advantage of the trails and creek for specialized, project-based instruction. Ivy Academy is a national leader in Environmental Education and is a USDE Green Ribbon School and a 501 (c3) non-profit program. Similar to all Hamilton County public schools, we operate by receiving per-pupil education funds from the state. We strive to extend the educational experience of our students through a variety of non-traditional activities, and additional funding resources are paramount to that cause.

Packet Pickup

• Packet Pickup: 7:00-8:30 AM
• 5K Start Time: 9:00 AM
• Ruck-The-Rock: 10:30 AM

Please arrive early to allow time for parking and packet pickup.

Ruck-The-Rock

Ruck-The-Rock is designed for ruckers of all levels and is held following the 5K race at 10:30 AM. How it works: Sign up for Ruck-The-Rock, Bring a rucksack capable of holding canned goods, Ruck to Pride Rock and back, Weigh your rucksack after completing the course, Donate all canned goods to Ivy Academy, Make a monetary donation equal to the weight of your rucksack (Example: a 50 lb rucksack = $50 donation). All canned goods and 50% of monetary donations will be donated to the Soddy Daisy Food Bank. This event is held in partnership with the Soddy Daisy Food Bank and Ivy Academy’s Rock Climbing Team.

Run & Ruck Combo

Participants may choose to run the 5K at 9:00 AM and ruck at 10:30 AM.

Wildflower Walk Option

From late February through early May, Ivy Academy’s trail system showcases over 30 species of wildflowers along the south bank of the North Chickamauga Creek. Participants registered for the Wildflower Walk will start at the back of the race lineup and hike the course at a relaxed pace, enjoying the scenery and natural beauty along the route.

Sleepy Sasquatch Option

Not interested in running or walking, but still want to support Ivy Academy? Register as a Sleepy Sasquatch. Sleep in, skip the race, and still receive event swag. All proceeds from the Sleepy Sasquatch option directly benefit Ivy Academy students.

Awards

“I Whooped Sas’” trucker hats for those who beat Sasquatch. Awards for: Top 3 Male, Top 3 Female, Top 3 ages 12 & under, Top 3 Ivy Academy students. Over $500 in giveaways will be awarded.

A Recycled Race Number Drop Box will be available after the race. Participants who recycle their race bibs will be entered for door prizes.

Run. Ruck. Recycle. Win. Over $500 in Giveaways

There will be a "Recycled Race Number" drop box at the Running with Sasquatch 5k. All those who recycle their numbers will be eligible for door prizes at the completion of the event.

Ivy Academy Donations

Due to the continued growth and success of Ivy Academy athletics, proceeds from Running with Sasquatch support the establishment of an athletic scholarship fund. Funds help cover team fees, uniforms, facility memberships, and other athletic expenses. All proceeds from Running with Sasquatch go directly to Ivy Academy athletics, helping ensure equal access to athletic opportunities for all students.

Ivy Plant Sale

Ivy Academy Horticulture Department will be having its Annual Spring Plant Sale on Friday, 4/10 - Saturday, 4/11. Having started from seed over 90 varieties of vegetables, herbs, and native plants, students will offer them for sale to the community. Come support Ivy's Horticulture department and let Ivy's students guide you on your spring gardening adventure!

Start Times

• Sleepy Sas: 9:00 AM
• Wildflower Walk: 9:00 AM
• Running with Sas 5K: 9:00 AM
• Ivy Academy Donations: 9:00 AM
• 5k Run & Ruck Combo: 9:00 AM
• Ruck-The-Rock: 10:30 AM