
From the Organizer
Join the FLOW Heart of Gold 5K, a high-impact charity 5K race in Oakland, New Jersey (Bergen County) dedicated to supporting the first responders who protect our community every day.
This is more than just a race. All profits from the race go directly back to Oakland. The proceeds are split evenly between the Oakland Fire Department, Oakland Police Department, and Oakland EMS, with additional support going to the Ramapo-Bergen Animal Shelter as well.
Whether you are running competitively or walking with friends, this event is designed for all fitness levels and is one of the most meaningful 5K races in the Oakland, NJ area. Additionally, it is the only 5K race that is consistently being held annually in Oakland.
The race will take place in Oakland’s Industrial Park on Bauer Avenue, starting at 16 Van Vooren Drive, the location of an Oakland Firehouse. The course is fast, accessible, and ideal for both runners and walkers.
Race Map and Course Details:
https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/5720570680/
There will be one heat, with runners starting at the front and walkers positioned toward the back. Official results will be separated after the race. The 2026 event will feature a fully digital race experience, including a race clock, electronic timing system, race bibs, and results uploaded through RunSignup.
Medals will be given to the top ten runners in each gender category, and the first overall finisher in each gender will receive a specially designed trophy.
Regular registration is open through May 31. After May 31, registration will increase from $29.99 to $34.99 per participant. Same-day registration and packet pickup will begin at 8:30 AM on race morning, and the race will begin promptly at 9:30 AM.
This race directly supports the people who serve Oakland in emergencies, along with providing resources to the Ramapo-Bergen Animal Shelter. Your participation has a direct impact on the local community.
For any questions, please contact heartofgold5k@gmail.com.
2024 Race Results:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ylIUJwMaks7vaDJWt1vHvYP5lKZq1rAL/view?usp=drivesdk
Events
Weather
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
81°
Typical Low
60°
Chance of Rain
35%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Wanaque Raymond Dam, 3 mi from the venue.
Host City
Population
12,700
as of 2023
Elevation
327 ft
Nearest Airport
EWR
Newark Liberty International Airport · 24 mi
Time Zone
Eastern Time
From Endurance Grid
A small town race. Lodging near the start could be limited, so book early.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Heart of Gold 5K, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
Coming Up
Lap the Lake
2 miles away
Miles for Smiles 5K
4 miles away
Pequannock Valley Rotary Foundation PVR 2026 5K Run/Walk
7 miles away
Mary Therese Rose Fund TIMED "MILE" & Walk
3 miles away
From Endurance Grid
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.
With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.
Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.
From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Heart of Gold 5K
Jun 21, 2026