HFA's Annual Michael Pennefather Memorial 5K and Fun Run is a running race on October 10, 2026 in Manassas Park, VA, with entry fees from $30 to $40.
From the Organizer
Please join us to honor Michael and raise money for Holy Family Academy!
Michael Pennefather, a student of Holy Family Academy, died at the age of 12 after battling multiple illnesses and disabilities. He colored the world around him with his infectious smile, optimism and joy for life. This year we commemorate the 19th anniversary of his passing. As always, this fun family friendly event gives us an opportunity to remember a remarkable young man, encourage fitness and raise money for our great school, Holy Family Academy, the school Michael loved.
Fun Run/Walk
This fun and non-timed race will be held before the 5K. The gun will sound at 9am for this shorter and well marked run. The emphasis of this race is on FUN with lots of prizes for all the participants.
5k Run
This timed event will follow the Fun Run and the gun will sound at approximately 9:30am. Participants are welcome to run or walk the event, but we ask that those planning to walk start at the back of the pack so those competing for time can go first.
The course is a two loop route that runs throughout the scenic trails of Signal Hill Park. It is mainly flat and fast with one larger elevation change and most of the course is paved with a small portion on trail and grass. Participants will loop the course twice and volunteers course Marshalls will be stationed throughout with one water station along the route. Prizes will be awarded to the top 3 Male and Female finishers, along with top finishers in each age group.
Virtual Runner
Can't join us on race day? Sign up to run with us virtually and run your 5K locally. Not up for running a 5K? No problem! Participate in spirit, and help support our great school get our gym built!
Packet Pick-up
PACKET PICK-UP will be available on FRIDAY, October 9, 2026 from 2:30-4:00pm at our campus, Holy Family Academy, 10580 Pineview Road, Manassas,VA
We encourage you to save time on the morning of the race and pick-up your packet early! Race day packet pick-up and on-site registration will begin at 7:30 am at the registration tent. Any Day-Of registrations are an additional $5.00
RACE REGISTRATION COSTS
5K Run/Walk - $40.00
Fun Run/Walk - $30.00
5K and Fun Run/Walk - $45.00 ***Discount taken off at checkout***
Virtual Run - $35.00
To guarantee a race shirt, register by 09/19/26
SPECIAL DISCOUNTS!
EARLY REGISTRATION discount is available until September 19, 2026 Enter the code EARLY2026 to receive $5.00 discount per registration.
FAMILY DISCOUNT use code FAMILY2026 for family registration of 5 or more and receive a 20% on the overall total (immediate family members, please!) **Not valid with the EARLY registration promo.
RACE SPONSORS
Holy Family Academy appreciates the support of sponsors! Your donations help us maximize income from this event and allow us to continue to provide outstanding classical education for so many children. Sponsors will be highlighted on our race t-shirts and our website. We are happy to include your promotional materials in our race bags. This is a great way for you to build your business and help Holy Family Academy, too! NOTE: Holy Family Academy is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Your generous donations are entirely tax deductible. Please Contact Andrea Bukowski at fundraising@holyfamilyacademy.net for more information.
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
69°
Typical Low
48°
Based on US Climate Normals data from Manassas, 3 mi from the venue.
Host City
Nearest Airport
IAD
Washington Dulles International Airport · 12 mi
Time Zone
Eastern Time
From Endurance Grid
Line up lodging and travel early to lock in your race weekend.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at HFA's Annual Michael Pennefather Memorial 5K and Fun Run, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
43
Days to train
Enter your email and we'll send more your way.
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 an accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Coming Up
Raise the Bar 5K (Walk/Run) - Labor Day
5 miles away
St. Andrew the Apostle 10K/5K/Fun Run
4 miles away
Healthy Kids Running Series Fall 2026 - Manassas, VA
3 miles away
Friends of the Poor© Walk - St. Timothy Conference, Chantilly, Va.
7 miles away
HFA's Annual Michael Pennefather Memorial 5K and Fun Run
Oct 10, 2026