Manila Madness 5K Freedom Run/Ruck
Manila Madness 5K Freedom Run/Ruck is a running and rucking race on September 19, 2026 in Raritan, NJ, with an entry fee of $30.
- Date
- September 19, 2026 (58 days to go)
- Location
- Canal St, Raritan, NJ
- Price
- $30
- Sports
- RunningRucking
From the Organizer
Join us for the Manila Madness 5K Freedom Run/Ruck, an event honoring the legacy of Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone and the sacrifices of our nation's heroes.
5K RUN – USATF Certified
Test your endurance on a USATF-certified course, perfect for runners of all levels. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or simply looking to run in honor of a true American hero, this 5K is a meaningful way to challenge yourself while paying tribute to Basilone’s unwavering spirit.
5K RUCK – Ruck in GySgt. Basilone’s Shoes
Experience a challenge inspired by the weight of battle. Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone carried a Browning M1917 .30 caliber heavy machine gun, which alone weighs about 40 pounds when filled with water. If you’re looking for an even greater test of strength and endurance, take on the full combat load—machine gun with water, tripod, and ammunition—totaling approximately 100 pounds.
Whether you’re running, rucking, or supporting from the sidelines, this event is an opportunity to honor a Marine Corps legend and keep his legacy alive. Sign up today and push yourself like a warrior!
Events
Weather
Typical Conditions
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
76°
Typical Low
52°
Chance of Rain
28%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Somerville 4 Nw, 3 mi from the venue.
Host City
About Raritan, NJ
Population
8,192
as of 2023
City Elevation
76 ft
Nearest Airport
TTN
Trenton Mercer Airport · 22 mi
Major Hub
EWR
Newark Liberty International Airport · 26 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
What Are You
Waiting For?
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Manila Madness 5K Freedom Run/Ruck, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
58
Days to train
- Race
- Manila Madness 5K Freedom Run/Ruck
- Date
- September 19, 2026
- Location
- Canal St, Raritan, NJ
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From Endurance Grid
About These Sports
This race spans more than one sport — here’s a guide to each, so you can understand what’s involved and decide if it’s the right fit. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer’s event page.
Running
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.
Rucking
Covering a distance on foot under a weighted rucksack — from timed solo challenges to longer team events.
Coming Up
More Running races near Raritan, NJ
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1 Mile · 5K · 10K · From $30 · Duke Island Park
1 mile away
9/11 Heroes Run - Raritan, NJ
1 Mile · 5K · From $21 · 1000 US Highway-202
Less than a mile away
Somerset County Operation Helping Hand: Running for Recovery 5K Run and Walk
5K · From $15 · 191 Old York Road
1 mile away
Family & Community Services of Somerset County "Taking Strides Towards Wellness" 5k Run/Walk
5K · From $25 · Duke Island Park
1 mile away
Plan your trip
Make it a Racecation
Coming from out of town? There's more to Raritan than race day. We'll help you line up nearby lodging, flights, a rental car, and things to do so you can make the most of your racecation.
Plan your trip to RaritanFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Manila Madness 5K Freedom Run/Ruck?+
When and where is the Manila Madness 5K Freedom Run/Ruck?+
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Manila Madness 5K Freedom Run/Ruck
Sep 19, 2026