2026 GiGi’s 5K Dash for Down Syndrome Raises Over $72,000 in Record-Breaking Community Celebration

The 2026 GiGi’s Playhouse Sacramento 5K Dash for Down Syndrome 2026 was a record-breaking success, bringing together participants, families, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters for a powerful day of community impact. The morning began with special coverage from Good Day Sacramento, who joined us on-site to highlight the mission, energy, and purpose behind the event.
Watch the segment here: https://youtu.be/s9XmeRCiU0E

https://www.cbsnews.com/gooddaysacramento/video/lace-up-your-shoes-for-the-dash-for-down-syndrome-event-10am/#x

From the very start, the tone of the day was clear—this was about more than a race.

Thanks to the dedication and generosity of our community, we not only met our fundraising goal—we surpassed it by nearly $20,000, raising a total of $72,715.56. The original goal of $53,500 was exceeded through the collective effort of everyone who showed up, supported, and believed in the mission.

Every dollar raised directly supports FREE educational, therapeutic, and career development programs at GiGi’s Playhouse Sacramento, helping individuals with Down syndrome and their families learn, grow, and thrive.

A Community That Showed Up

This year’s event reflected the strength of community in a meaningful way. The energy throughout the day was rooted in connection, commitment, and shared purpose.

Participants arrived ready to fundraise, engage their friends and families, and take part in friendly competition that fueled the spirit of the event. What began as a 5K quickly became something bigger—a shared commitment to acceptance and inclusion.

Top Fundraising Teams

We are proud to recognize the top fundraising teams whose efforts made a significant impact:

• Dante’s Spunky Amigos — $6,225
• Jaydon’s Troops — $5,842
• Pickle’s Peeps — $3,044

These teams will be featured on the GiGiFIT Wall of Fame in recognition of their outstanding contributions.

Entertainment, Activities, and Event Highlights

The event featured a full day of entertainment, activities, and experiences for all ages.

Performances and appearances included:

• Armon Newton
• DJ J Fresh
• DJ Redikulus
• GiGi’s Rock Rules Band

Thank You to Our Vendors and Sponsors

We are grateful to the vendors and sponsors who made this event possible:

Your support helps sustain and expand programs that serve individuals with Down syndrome in our community.

Additional highlights included:

• Warm-ups led by Thrive Fitness
• Therapy dogs from Hearts for Heroes
• A special appearance by Bibbity Bobbity Bridget
• Safety engagement from California Highway Patrol
• Treats from Snowie King
• A 21-yard Dash for Down Syndrome with medals awarded to participants
• A variety of food vendors throughout the event
• Bravo’s Bean Specialty Coffee

Thank You to Our In-Kind Donors

5K Race Results

Congratulations to all participants who crossed the finish line.

Top 3 Men

1. Nick Siino — 16:08 (#208)
2. Erik Yergensen — 19:09 (#394)
3. Israel Monroy-Hernandez — 20:08 (#150)

Top 3 Women

1. Angeline Basle — 25:57 (#16)
2. Jennifer Cassidy — 27:16 (#33)
3. Adrian Hatch — 28:13 (#83)

Full race results and additional winners can be found here: https://runsignup.com/Race/Results/183873

A Special Thank You to Our Volunteers

This event would not be possible without the dedication of our volunteer planning committee and day-of volunteers. From months of preparation to race-day execution—including registration, water stations, cheer zones, and behind-the-scenes coordination—your efforts ensured everything ran smoothly.

Special recognition also goes to:

• Patricia Hicks for face painting throughout the day
• Philip Hicks for balloon art throughout the day

Looking Ahead

We look forward to building on this momentum as we prepare for next year’s 5K Dash For Down Syndrome. Until then, we remain committed to expanding acceptance, strengthening inclusion, and supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

Together, this community continues to create meaningful impact and move the mission forward.

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