Manila Madness 5K Freedom Run/Ruck
- Date
- September 19, 2026
- Location
- Canal St, Raritan, NJ
- Distance
- Basilone 5K Freedom Run · Basilone 5K Freedom Ruck · Basilone 5K Freedom Run (VIRTUAL)
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
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.
103
Days to train
- Race
- Manila Madness 5K Freedom Run/Ruck
- Date
- September 19, 2026
- Location
- Canal St, Raritan, NJ
Coming Up
More Running races near Raritan, NJ
The NJ Endurance Classic Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K
Half Marathon · 10K · 5K
1 mile away
We Want Ice Cream! 5K Run
5K
1 mile away
Tunnel to Towers Arena Climb - Somerset, NJ
1 mile away
Alternatives Inc. Dignity Dash
1 mile away
From Endurance Grid
About This Sport
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.
Running
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)
- What is the Manila Madness 5K Freedom Run/Ruck?
- Manila Madness 5K Freedom Run/Ruck is a running race held in Raritan, New Jersey on September 19, 2026. It is one of the many endurance events listed on Endurance Grid, a multi-sport endurance event calendar covering running races, triathlons, HYROX, and more endurance sports across the United States. Find more running races near you or explore our sports guides to learn what race day actually feels like.
- When and where is the Manila Madness 5K Freedom Run/Ruck?
- Saturday, September 19, 2026 in Raritan, New Jersey at Canal St, Raritan, NJ. Check the event page for exact start times and wave schedules.
- How do I register for the Manila Madness 5K Freedom Run/Ruck?
- Registration is handled through the event's registration page. Confirm pricing and distances there, and sign up.
Manila Madness 5K Freedom Run/Ruck
Sep 19, 2026