Run the Rainbow returns March 21 to support Children’s of Mississippi

Runners from around the state and country will lace up March 21 to support the state’s only children’s hospital for the fourth annual Run the Rainbow for Children’s.

It will offer 5K, 10K, half-marathon, marathon and 50K routes, each with its own set of surprises.

Gordon Gartrell, a participant of Run the Rainbow and avid runner, looks forward to this yearly event.

“Run the Rainbow holds deep personal significance for me and is an event I look forward to each year. As the nurse manager of the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Children’s of Mississippi, I witness the courage, resilience and strength of the children and families we serve daily. Participating in this race allows me to honor those patients and families while reinforcing the values of compassion, service and community that define our purpose as an organization.”

All routes will begin and end at Hal & Mal’s at 200 Commerce St. The 5K will meander through downtown Jackson, while the 10K, half-marathon, marathon and 50K routes will ramble from downtown to Belhaven, Eastover, the University of Mississippi Medical Center and past the Kathy and Joe Sanderson Tower at Children’s of Mississippi.

Run the Rainbow is a week before the 42nd annual Hal’s St. Paddy’s Parade, which is set for March 28 in downtown Jackson. The 2026 theme and grand marshal will be announced soon.

“This truly is an event where everyone can feel connected and know they are making a difference,” said Selena Daniel, race director and director of business operations at Children’s of Mississippi. “We are the only children’s hospital in the state, so we can give back and provide items that our children need.”

The event ends with an after-party at Hal & Mal’s that will include food, a drink ticket and live music.

Run the Rainbow for Children’s has age division trophy competitions including one for ages 16 to 19 as well as overall trophies. A walking category is available on the 5K route. All finishers will receive a Run the Rainbow medal featuring artwork drawn by one of our patient ambassadors.

“Now that my eldest daughter is old enough to participate alongside me, this experience has become even more meaningful,” said Gartrell. “Running together gives me the opportunity to model the importance of empathy, service and resilience while honoring the patients and families who entrust Children’s of Mississippi with their care. This event reaffirms why I am proud to serve as a leader at Children’s of Mississippi and inspires me to contribute to a mission that reaches far outside the walls of our hospital. Run the Rainbow is a powerful reminder that when we come together in support of the children of Mississippi, we create lasting impact and hope that extends well beyond race day.” 

Run the Rainbow registration includes options for virtual and in-person 5K running and walking, kids fun run, 10K, half-marathon, marathon and 50K runs as well as a “look like a runner” option for those who just want to buy the T-shirt. 

“This truly is an event where everyone can feel connected and know they are making a difference,” said Daniel.

Volunteers for Run the Rainbow for Children’s are needed. Contact CommunityEvents@umc.edu for information about volunteering, sponsorships and more.