The Down Syndrome Network of Greater Greensboro (DSNGG) invites you and your family to participate in its 7th annual 5K walk/run, in honor of World Down Syndrome Day!

People with Down syndrome have an extra chromosome, so this race has a little something EXTRA too – Official times will be recorded at the 5K finish line, then runners will go on to DASH an extra 0.1-mile to finish at 3.21 miles, in honor of the 3rd copy of the 21st chromosome present in people with Down syndrome. And if you’re lucky, you may be accompanied through the second finish line by DASHers with Down syndrome to cheer you on and thank you for your support

Event proceeds will benefit the DSNGG in its efforts to support individuals with Down syndrome (Ds) and their families in our community. By participating, you can help the DSNGG continue to provide many programs and events to our families, from providing welcome bags for new parents in the hospital to hosting speakers for our parents on topics, such as special education rights and financial planning. The DSNGG also offers financial assistance and scholarships to families who need help providing medical or therapeutic services for their children with Ds.

Runners are encouraged to take part in the Lots of Socks campaign, wearing brightly colored socks, long socks, printed socks, 1 sock … even 3 socks for 3 chromosomes! The choice is yours, but we ask you to join us wearing something which people will ask you about so that you can tell them all about World Down Syndrome Day. (Find more information at https://worlddownsyndromeday.org/lots-of-socks)

Did you know that people with Down syndrome have an extra chromosome? Most people have two copies of 23 different chromosomes, but individuals with Down syndrome are born with three copies of the 21st chromosome (the medical term for this is Trisomy 21). That's it … only one chromosome difference! So for awareness and support, we are adding to a traditional 5K (3.1-mile) run a short extra 0.11-mile “dash” in honor of the extra chromosome in those with Down syndrome for a total distance of 3.21 miles!!! Again, your official time will be captured at the 5K finish line; the extra Dash is just for fun!