Defend Your Friend 5K

all Proceeds support animal cruelty investigations

Every day, Columbus Humane answers the call when animals are abused, neglected, or in danger. But we can’t do it alone. Join us for the Defend Your Friend 5K and raise critical funds for animal cruelty investigations that save lives across our community. Whether you run, walk, or just love animals, every step you take helps protect animals across Franklin County.

Register Today

Saturday, OCTOBER 11, 2025

Prairie Oaks Metro Park - Darby Bend Lakes Entrance
2755 Amity Rd, Hilliard, OH 43026

7:30 am - Day-of registration Opens
8:00 am - Fan Fest Opens
9:00 am - 5K Runners
9:02 am - 5K Dogs and Strollers
9:05 am - 5K Walkers
9:10 am - 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk

Event Highlights

Family-friendly, dog-friendly fun
T-shirt included for the first 400 registrants
Race timing and results powered by our partner, Race Penguin
Run, walk, or just show up in support—all are welcome!
The 5K will start and finish at the Darby Bend Lakes entrance at Prairie Oaks Metro Park.

Register for Defend Your Friend 5K

Tickets

Pre-Race Registration: $50 (Pre-Race Registration Closes Wednesday 10/8/25)
Day-Of Registration: $55
Combo Ticket (5K + Comedy to the Rescue): $60 ($10 savings)
Add-On: Official Dog Bandana: $7

*Combo ticket includes entry to Comedy to the Rescue, happening the week before the race. Details below.

amplify your support - Fundraise for Animals

Step 1: After you register, select “Start/Join a Team.”
Step 2: Create a team or join one already formed.
Step 3: Begin fundraising! Your $50 race entry fee will automatically count toward your fundraising total.

your impact in action

Columbus Humane Agents are expertly trained and authorized to lead the community’s efforts to end animal cruelty. From responding to reports from concerned citizens, to conducting comprehensive investigations, to supporting the work of prosecutors when cases go to trial, it’s one of the most challenging aspects of our work. And one that gives us a unique perspective. Every time we answer a call to investigate a potential case of cruelty or neglect, we never know what we’ll find. But we do know that whatever we find, every animal deserves nothing less than a heroic effort.

Race Packet Pick-up

Friday, October 10th at Columbus Humane

7:30am-9:30am
11:00am-1:00pm
4:00pm-6:00pm

3015 Scioto Darby Executive Court, Hilliard, Ohio

another way to support: comedy to the rescue!

Join Us for a Night of Laughs a week before Defend Your Friend 5K—All for a Great Cause!

Support Columbus Humane’s Animal Cruelty Investigations Department at Comedy to the Rescue, featuring Clay Foley, a nationally touring comedian, former cruelty investigator, and lifelong animal advocate.

Clay brings humor and heart to the stage, using his platform to raise critical funds for animal charities just like ours. Don’t miss this unique night of stand-up with purpose!