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Don Childs Memorial 5 Mile Run returns to Oregon Trail Days.Gering, Neb.— One of Oregon Trail Days' most enduring traditions is making its return.The Don Childs Memorial 5 Mile Run is back on the celebration's 2026 schedule and will take to the streets of Gering on Friday, July 10, 2026, with a 7 a.m.start in the heart of downtown.First run in 1972, the Don Childs Memorial (originally called the Oregon Trail Race) has long been the festival's signature early-morning event, drawing everyone from competitive local runners to families out for a holiday-week challenge.The out-and-back course rolls from downtown Gering toward the entrance of Scotts Bluff National Monument before turning back — a scenic but demanding route that climbs on the way out and rewards runners with a downhill return.One of the Co-Directors of the race, Eric Hardin, said “We're thrilled to bring this race back.After it came off the OTD schedule last year, we had a few runners gather at the usual time and place, and ran the exact route so we can say the Don Child’s has been run every year (except the COVID year).It’s important to keep the tradition going!” How to register Pre-register (HIGHLY recommended).Download and complete the official race entry form, available on the Events calendar at oregontraildays.com (listed under Friday, July 10).The entry fee is $20.00 and full details are on the form.Guarantee your T-shirt.Runners who pre-register by Friday, June 26, 2026, are guaranteed a race T-shirt.Sign-ups after that date are welcome, but a shirt can't be guaranteed.Race-day registration.On-site registration opens at 6 a.m.at the starting line, 1447 10th Street in downtown Gering, and closes shortly before the 7 a.m.Age-group awards will be presented, and all finishers are invited to stick around for the rest of the day's Oregon Trail Days festivities.The Don Childs Memorial 5 Mile Run kicks off a full slate of Friday events, including the Vera Dulaney Memorial Art Show, the Kiddie Parade, the annual Food Fair, and a free community concert.About Oregon Trail Days: Oregon Trail Days is Nebraska's oldest continuous celebration, held every July in Gering since 1921.The 2026 festival runs July 9–12 and features parades, live music, a car show, food vendors, kids' activities, and dozens of community events.