2026 Run for Autism and resource event
Sat, Apr 17, 2027, 4:00 AM CDT
- Type
- Run
Sign up and verify details on the organizer's official page.
Race feel
Run for a meaningful cause at this Fort Smith event, supporting neurodiverse individuals and community building in the River Valley.
- Fun
- For a Cause
Fun
For a CauseThe Run for Autism is an annual event supporting Spectrum Connections' mission to build resources and community for neurodiverse individuals in the River Valley. Join fellow runners in Fort Smith, Arkansas, for an 8K, 5K, or 1-mile fun run, all starting from the vibrant Bakery District. This event offers a meaningful way to connect and contribute to a vital cause.
What to expect
- A supportive run through Fort Smith's Bakery District.
- Choose from an 8K, 5K, or a 1-mile fun run.
- Support Spectrum Connections and their community mission.
Standout details
Past race snapshot
What the field usually feels like
A plain-English read from past public results. It is helpful context, not a prediction.
Crowd
Small field
15 8K finishers in 2026. A quieter race where the pack may spread out more quickly.
Typical finish
44:01
Think middle-of-the-pack, using chip time when available.
Competitive feel
Lively front
The faster end moves well, but the race still has room for everyday runners. Front-group read: 33:41.
People mix
More men
About 27% women and 73% men in rows with usable gender data.
Quick read
For the 8K in 2026, this looks like a small field: 15 finishers are represented here. A middle-of-the-pack finish was around 44:01. The quicker front of the field averaged about 33:41. Use it as a feel check, not a promise about race day.
Show the year-by-year numbers
| Distance | Year | Finishers | Typical | Average | Front 10% | Fastest M / W |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8K | 2026 | 15 | 44:01 | 50:34 | 33:41 | 30:31 / 39:48 |
Last summary update: Apr 30, 2026
From the organizer
Run for Autism is the first annual run, 8K, 5k and 1-mile fun run in Fort Smith, Arkansas, sponsored by Spectrum Connections. Spectrum Connections strives to grow resources, events, and community building for those in the River Valley with neurodiversity by providing relationship-based and neuro-affirming care through therapy services, co-ops, and various events throughout the year.
This year's event will be held at the Bakery District with the 8k starting 8 am, 5k at 9 am and 1 mile at 10 am.
Check us out at spectrumconnections.co
