Event Description

Please join us in celebrating Carl’s life and legacy at Carl’s 5K!

Carl was the first cow ever rescued by Iowa Farm Sanctuary. At only a few days old, Carl arrived at our sanctuary with the number 527 glued to the side of his little body. He was just a number to the dairy industry—another product to be sold. Had Carl not been too sick to walk out onto the auction floor, he would have been sold as veal. 

Carl was so tiny and so sick that we weren’t sure if he’d survive—but against all the odds, Carl made it. He grew up to be a gigantic, sassy, and mischievous steer; his personality was truly larger than life. We suddenly lost Carl in 2021 to a hidden illness that he contracted before his rescue, and life will never be the same again without him here.

Celebrating Carl’s birthday has always been one of Iowa Farm Sanctuary’s most cherished traditions. This year would have been Carl’s 6th birthday, but now we are honoring the legacy of his precious life instead. 

Carl’s 5K will be unlike any race you’ve ever participated in before, as the course will wind around our beautiful sanctuary grounds—our rescued residents cheering you on as you go! After you cross the finish line, you can visit with your favorite residents and enjoy complimentary vegan snacks—or bring a little vegan picnic to enjoy!

Both runners and walkers are welcome! We’re also offering a self-timed virtual option for those who cannot join us in person! Additionally, you can register as a herd if you want to! Well, as a team—but we’re cow people! Registration (both in-person and virtual) includes an exclusive t-shirt, bib, and medal! 

We hope you’ll join us in making Carl’s 5K the magnificent celebration of life that he deserves!