SLAM THE
DAM
2026 SLAM THE DAM
10K RUN
EVENT INFO
8:30 am - Saturday, August 15, 2026
Hosted at: Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure
*When using the maps, download to your phone or device prior to the race as signal is sometimes limited at event.
READY TO REGISTER?
This year's Slam the Dam will be a morning run to get your day "slammin'!"
More than 100 runners are expected to be participating in one of the area's most loved 10K events.
Experience the Thrill: Lake Lure Slam The Dam 10K - Start Your Olympiad Weekend with a Bang!
Slam the Dam 10K
Start your Lake Lure Olympiad weekend with fresh mountain air, beautiful scenery, and an unforgettable run across one of the area’s most iconic landmarks.
This year, Slam the Dam moves to the morning!
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The race begins at 8:30 a.m., giving runners cooler temperatures, peaceful lake views, and an energizing start to a full weekend of Olympiad events.
Race Highlights
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Spectacular Lake Lure scenery: Take in sweeping views of the lake and surrounding mountains as you make your way through this picturesque 10K course.
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A run across the historic dam: Experience the signature moment that gives Slam the Dam its name: crossing Lake Lure’s historic dam as part of your race-day journey.
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An enthusiastic community: Run alongside athletes of all experience levels, cheered on by volunteers, supporters, and a community that makes the Lake Lure Olympiad so special.
Why Run Slam the Dam?
Whether you’re chasing a personal best, taking on your first 10K, or simply looking for a memorable way to experience Lake Lure, Slam the Dam offers the perfect combination of challenge, camaraderie, and natural beauty.
It’s also a fantastic way to begin your Olympiad weekend—cross the finish line in the morning, celebrate your accomplishment, and enjoy everything the weekend has in store.
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Get the 2026 Race T-Shirt
Want to commemorate your run with an official **2026 Slam the Dam T-shirt**? Be sure to **register by August 5** to guarantee yours.
Join Us at the Starting Line
Lace up, rise early, and get ready to Slam the Dam! Register today and join us at 8:30 a.m. for a one-of-a-kind 10K in the heart of beautiful Lake Lure.
EVENT DETAILS
The Coursent DetailsCourse
The Slam the Dam 10K begins at 8:30 a.m. at Ingles Supermarket on Route 9. From the starting line, runners will head east on Route 64 before turning left onto Buffalo Shoals Road.
The course crosses the iconic Lake Lure Dam and continues along a winding road beside the scenic lakeshore. Runners will finish at the beach at Rumbling Bald.
Two water stops will be available along the course:
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Just after runners cross the Lake Lure Dam
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Near mile marker 4
Race-Day Transportation
Free shuttle transportation from Rumbling Bald (race finish) to Ingles Supermarket (race start) will be provided.
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Departure time: 7:15 a.m.
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Travel time: Approximately 25–30 minutes
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Availability: Seating is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Only one pre-race shuttle is scheduled, so please arrive early.
For participants who park at Ingles, vans will make one return trip from Rumbling Bald to Ingles following the awards ceremony, at approximately 10:30 a.m.
Recommended option: Ask a friend or family member to drop you off at Ingles before the race and then meet you at the finish at Rumbling Bald.
Packet Pick-Up
Race shirts will be distributed at packet pick-up. If you registered by the August 5 shirt deadline, please plan to store your shirt before the start or wear it during the race.
Date: August 15, 2026
Time: 7:00–8:15 a.m.
Location: Ingles Supermarket
276 NC Highway 9
Lake Lure, NC 28746
PRICING & REGISTRATION
Avoid the line, Register online!
Online Registration is available until Fri., Aug. 14th at 5:00 pm.
$50.00 Registration After July 26th, 2026, including day-of walk-ups
Male Age Group
Female Age Group
This race is sanctioned by USATF
Policies & Refunds
There are no refunds for this race. This event occurs rain or shine. In the case of lightning, we will delay the start.
Strollers and other child carriers are NOT allowed in the event.
*** Year after year the Olympiad provides a venue for athletes to come and test their abilities. We put a lot of effort into making this a special event for all participants. In addition, the Olympiad supports many area charities and service organizations. And like most races, we have a “No Refund” policy.
EVENT DAY DETAILS
SWAG AND EXTRAS
At Registration/Check-in for Athletes:
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2026 10K Dam Run commemorative shirt
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Given at packet pickup
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FREE snacks after the race
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Recognition ceremony
PACKET PICKUP & Registration
Packet Pickup will be held at the Ingles Grocery Store (where race begins)
on the day of the event from 7:00 am - 8:00 am.
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T-Shirts will be issued at packet pickup
Address: 276 NC-9 - Lake Lure, NC 28746
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Only checks or cash can be accepted at packet pickup.
10K Dam Run Shirt
Register for the race by August 5th to get your commemorative shirt!
