13th Annual Saints Kickoff Run presented by Hancock Whitney open for registration

Proceeds from the 13th running of New Orleans Saints Kickoff Run will benefit the National Guard Association of Louisiana and the Louisiana National Guard Foundation (LANG Foundation)

Jul 08, 2025 at 11:01 AM

The New Orleans Saints and Easy Day Sports announced today that online registration for the 13th Annual Saints Kickoff Run, presented by Hancock Whitney, is now open at saints5k.com. The race will take place on Saturday, September 6th, the day before the Saints open the regular season at home against the Arizona Cardinals.

One of the most celebrated 5Ks in the Gulf South, the Saints Kickoff Run has become a beloved tradition for Saints fans and New Orleans locals alike. Proceeds from this year's race will benefit National Guard Association of Louisiana and the Louisiana National Guard Foundation (LANG Foundation), furthering the team's commitment to giving back to the community.

"We're honored to participate in this year's Saints 5K with the New Orleans Saints, an organization that means so much to the city and to our Louisiana National Guardsmen," said retired Lt. Col. Will Santos, Executive Director of the National Guard Association of Louisiana. "Proceeds increase the welfare of our service members and their families and strengthen our membership. We also extend a sincere thanks to the New Orleans Saints, Hancock Whitney, and Easy Day Sports for their efforts and support to our association."

"We are truly grateful to the Saints organization and all the participants of this year's annual Saints 5K," said Michael Niclosi, Executive Director of the Louisiana National Guard Foundation. "Your generous support directly benefits more than 11,000 soldiers of the Louisiana National Guard and their families through emergency relief, scholarships, affordable housing, and many other morale, welfare, and recreation initiatives. This partnership between the Saints and the Louisiana National Guard Foundation ensures those who selflessly serve our state receive the care and recognition they deserve."

This family-friendly event includes a 5K run/walk and a Kids Fun Run presented by Ochsner Children’s. The 5K route begins in Champions Square, and heads towards the French Quarter via Poydras and N Peters before turning around just past the Bienville Monument. On the return, racers do a ½ lap around the Caesars Superdome where they will sprint down the Saints team tunnel and finish on the 50-yard line inside the iconic Caesars Superdome, with their moment captured on the stadium's massive end zone video boards. The Kids Fun Run also finishes within the Caesars Superdome. All participants will receive a commemorative t-shirt, finisher's medal, and access to the post-race celebration in Champions Square—featuring music, complimentary refreshments from Anheuser-Busch, and festive fun to kick off the 2025 NFL season.

"The Saints 5K Kickoff Run presented by Hancock Whitney has become a cherished tradition for our organization and our fans," said Gayle Benson, Owner of the New Orleans Saints. "For 13 years, this event has marked the beginning of football season with energy, unity, and purpose. It is truly a joy to see our community come together in celebration, not only for our team, but for the health and wellness of our community. We are especially proud to support the National Guard Association of Louisiana and the Louisiana National Guard Foundation through this event, which reflects the values we hold dear both on and off the field."

The Saints Kickoff Run has become a beloved New Orleans tradition, supported by Entergy, helping bring fans together to celebrate the start of the Saints' season in true Black & Gold fashion. More than just a race, it blends fitness, fun, and football into a high-energy celebration of community and charity. Each year, thousands unite to run, cheer, and give back, making it a signature event that captures the heart of the city and the spirit of the team.

"The Annual Saints Kickoff Run is more than a race—it's a celebration of our community, traditions, and the spirit of the Saints that brings us all together," said Liz Hefler, Hancock Whitney's New Orleans Market President. "We're always proud to partner with the Saints to help launch the new season in a way that energizes fans, supports local families, and reminds us of the power of teamwork—on and off the field."

Saints fans and passionate runners alike are encouraged to secure their spots in the highly anticipated 2025 Saints Kickoff Run. Online registration opens on Monday, July 7th, offering a special discounted price for the first 1,000 individuals who sign up. Mark your calendars for the exciting event, scheduled to commence at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 6th.

About National Guard Association of Louisiana
Its formation aims to promote the welfare of National Guard personnel, strengthen national security, and foster and improve the National Guard of Louisiana and the National Guard of the United States as essential components of the US armed forces. More information can be found at ngala.org/.

About Louisiana National Guard Foundation (LANG Foundation)
The Louisiana National Guard Foundation's mission is to exclusively support the Louisiana National Guard's mission, its members, veterans, and families as well as the educational programs and museums of the Louisiana National Guard. For more information, please visit langfoundation.org/.

For additional information about the Saints 5k and to register for the race, please visit Saints5k.com and follow @Saints5k on Facebook and Instagram.

About Easy Day Sports
Easy Day Sports is a dynamic event production agency that focuses on premier, professionally managed endurance sports events. The company prides itself on exposing the spirit of sport within people. With a commitment to excellence, Easy Day Sports strives to create memorable experiences for participants of all ages and skill levels.

Photos: 2024 Saints 5K Kickoff Run presented by Hancock Whitney