Runs and Races

The Y is a positive force in West Michigan.

Every day, our community faces new challenges that create a greater need for the work we do to break down barriers and create access for all. From tackling the achievement gap to teaching healthy habits, or giving people the chance to strengthen our community through volunteering – everything the Y does is in service of building a better us. Y donors, volunteers, members and partners make the difference. Together, we take on the challenges that shape the future of West Michigan.

Indoor Triathlon Series

Date: Feb. – March 2026
Type: 3 part triathlon
Location: Mary Free Bed YMCA & David D. Hunting YMCA

Amway River Bank Run

Date: May 2026
Type: 25K, 10K, 5K Run/ Walk
Location: Grand Rapids, MI

Visser Family YMCA Buck Creek Run

Date: June 2026
Type: 5K Run/ Walk
Location: Grandville, MI
Benefits: Visser Family YMCA Annual Campaign

Byron Days 5K

Date: July 26, 2025
Type: 5k Run/Walk
Location: Byron Center, MI
Benefits: SpartanNash YMCA

Metro Way 5K / YMCA Youth Races

Date: July 23, 2025
Type: 5K Run/ Walk and FREE Kids Run
Location: Byron Center, MI

University of Michigan Health - West: Run thru the Rapids

Date: October 19, 2025
Type: 5K & 10K Walk/Run
Location: Downtown Grand Rapids, MI; Hosted at David D. Hunting YMCA
Benefits: YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin Scholarship Fund

University of Michigan Health – West: Grand Rapids Marathon

Date: October 19, 2025
Type: Foster Swift Half Marathon / Pepsi Zero Sugar Marathon Relay
Location: Grand Rapids, MI; Hosted at David D. Hunting YMCA

Litehouse Family YMCA Turkey Trot

Date: November 8, 2025
Type: 5K Trail Run/Walk
Location: Lowell, MI
Benefits: Litehouse Family YMCA Annual Campaign

Training Resources

4 Nutrition Tips to Optimize Your Training

Proper training and nutrition can be the key to your success. Without the right nutrient intake, athletic performance can be negatively affected.

Strength Training, Trail Running: A Runner’s Best Strategy

Strength training is one of the most beneficial and underutilized routines a runner can incorporate to improve overall muscle strength, stamina, and endurance, as well as reduce the risk of injury.