The Rehab Rover Canicross and Trail Race - 10k, 5K, 1.25 Mile Sprint, Casual Dog Friendy 5K and Virtual 5K 2026

Description

The Rehab Rover Canicross and Trail Race, powered by Veterinary Rehabilitation Services of Virginia and Harness Canicular LLC, presents the 3rd Annual Canicross race in the Commonwealth of Virginia! The Veterinary Rehabilitation Services of Virginia campus is a working equine rehabilitation facility that provides a peaceful environment for running, walking, or hiking. The 10k and 5k courses are classified as technical trail running races. Participants should be prepared for uneven terrain, elevation changes, and natural features, including roots, rocks, mowed fields, shallow water crossings or bridges, and narrow paths. There will be 3 water stations along the course.

NEW in 2026: We have added a 1.25-mile "Bel-Mutt Stakes." This will be a fast, flat course for those who do not want to run a 5k, have a young dog, or just prefer to sprint!

Whether you are joining us for fun or competing for a top spot on the podium, your bond with your dog will be strengthened as you navigate the trail together! Join us on October 3, 2026, for the best day with your dog! This year's event will also be a fundraiser for GREEN DOGS UNLEASHED! Please help us raise money for this incredible dog rescue!

The day is not just about running, walking, hiking, or hobbling on the trail. Join us for the Rehab Rover Finisher's Festival from 9 am - 2 pm (spectators and family welcome). The festival will be held near the historic Clifton house on the property, which is the hub of all of the operations and features The Dog House Biergarten, food trucks, music, and the Vendor Village with local craftsmen and dog products throughout. Cool off from your race, grab some food, and enjoy the relaxing environment and views from Clifton House .

DOG- FRIENDLY TRAIL RACE:

Are you new to Canicross, or do you have a dog in training? Join the 5k Dog-Friendly Trail run right after the competitive canicross events and take all the pressure off- just get out there and have fun with your dog. Do not have a dog? Come join us with your friends and family! Limit to 2 dogs per person in this event.

VIRTUAL RUNNERS: Cannot join us on race day? No problem! We have a virtual option for you to participate in on your own time and from your own turf. Run, jog, or walk the distance from anywhere and submit your results online. It is a great way to be a part of the event, no matter where you are! You will have until October 30, 2026 to complete your event and submit your results. Each virtual runner will receive a logo race t-shirt and finisher medal! *Note T-shirts will not be guaranteed if you register after September 20, 2026.

Registered children under 15 must run with a registered adult.

We will start runners in teams of 3 at 1-2-minute intervals to eliminate crowding/bottlenecking on the course. The event is fully outdoors with ample space to distance.

Every Participant will receive a logo race T-shirt and a finisher medal! *Note: After August 31, 2026, late registrants will not receive a T-shirt. If you want swag- get registered early!

Are you coming from out of state, or do you have a long drive? Make plans to Camp or bring your RV the night before or stay one night after the race. Do not forget to sign up during registration!

Not into camping, but need a place to stay on the property for the event? The Clifton House ( www.cliftonhouse.farm ) will have limited rooms available for the event. Please contact april@cliftonhouse.farm for reservations.

Whiskers 2 Toes Canine Massage Therapy will be on site for the event, offering canine massage appointments for participant dogs. If you would like to book a therapeutic massage for your dog before or after the race, please contact Nancy Lilly at Nancy@whiskers2toes.com or call 540-846-3961. Laser and PEMF mat therapies are also available upon request.

Race Day Schedule: All races will be chipped-timed and have a rolling start based on event size. Canicross will have two-dog start lines in 10-second