STATESBORO -- The Abbie DeLoach Foundation, in partnership with Georgia Southern University Campus Recreation & Intramurals, celebrated a record-breaking turnout for the 2026 True Blue 5K & Abbie’s Adventure Race, held Saturday, Nov. 7, during Georgia Southern University's Homecoming weekend. The event saw nearly 700 registrations, a significant increase from 408 participants registered in 2025, marking a milestone for the beloved Homecoming tradition.

Established by Georgia Southern University in 2011 as part of its Homecoming celebrations, the True Blue 5K celebrated its 15th anniversary this year. In 2018, the Abbie DeLoach Foundation partnered with Georgia Southern University Campus Recreation & Intramurals to create Abbie’s Adventure Race and began annually sponsoring the combined event to honor Abbie’s life and legacy. Since then, the True Blue 5K & Abbie’s Adventure Race has continued to bring together Georgia Southern students, alumni, families and community members for a morning of fitness, friendship and True Blue spirit.

“This year's incredible turnout is a testament to the love and support that continues to surround Abbie and her legacy,” said Abbie's father and President of the Abbie DeLoach Foundation Jimmy DeLoach. “Seeing nearly 700 people come together to celebrate Abbie's life, especially during the 15th anniversary of this event, means more to our family than words can express. We are so grateful to everyone who participated, volunteered and helped make this year's race such a tremendous success. Abbie loved Georgia Southern, her friends and being active, and it is truly special to see her spirit continue to inspire so many people.”

To commemorate the race’s 15th anniversary, this year's race featured themed “pods” along the course, each inspired by memorable themes from the past 15 years of Georgia Southern Homecoming. Participants enjoyed a journey through Homecoming history as they made their way across the Statesboro Campus.

The True Blue 5K took runners and walkers through iconic campus locations, including M.C. Anderson Park and Paulson Stadium, while Abbie’s Adventure Race offered an additional challenge with obstacles, puzzles and other activities throughout the course. The event also featured a free quarter-mile Kiddie Run, allowing younger members of the Eagle Nation to join in the celebration.

The Abbie DeLoach Foundation extends its sincere appreciation to Georgia Southern University Campus Recreation & Intramurals, event volunteers, participants and supporters for helping make the 15th annual event a record-breaking success.

For more information about the Abbie DeLoach Foundation and its mission, visit abbiedeloachfoundation.com.