Time to let out your inner athlete and show the world what you've got!

Whether it's a triathlon, trail run, or road race, it's time to let it all out and race toward the finish line for a personal best time or just your first race. Proceeds from most events support financial assistance to low-income individuals and families through our YMCA Annual Campaign.

Check out the information listed below for a YMCA race or triathlon in your neighborhood.

Races & Triathlons

The Y-Way 5K - Saturday, April 18th, 2026 - Downtown YMCA

Saturday, April 18th | Race Begins at 8:30 AM

Open to Ages 7+

Lace up your running shoes and aim for a photo finish in the heart of historic Downtown Dayton, Ohio. With a stunning course tracing the banks of the rushing Great Miami River, you can go for the gold or spend time connecting with your friends, community members, and fellow runners.

100% of race proceeds go to the Downtown YMCA Annual Campaign, helping to make the Y a place for everyone.

Early Bird Registration Fee: $30

General Registration Fee: $35

Entry Fee Includes:

  • Race Registration
  • Race-T-Shirt
  • Finisher Medal
  • Racer Goodie Bag
  • Post-Race Snacks & Water

Register Today!

THE STRONG KIDS TRIATHLON - 2026 DATES COMING SOON

SWIM! BIKE! RUN!

The Strong Kids Triathlon will take place at the YMCA at the Heights. Our swimming portion will take place at the Kroger Aquatics Center behind the YMCA at the Heights. 

DATE COMING SOON

The YMCA at the Heights
7251 Shull Rd. 
Huber Heights, OH 45424

Open to ages 5-12
Open to members and the public

HAVE QUESTIONS? Contact Chris Lindeman at clindeman@daytonymca.org

Alex Ritchie 5K Run & Color Walk - 2026 DATES COMING SOON

DATE COMING SOON | 7:30-11:00 AM

See the rainbow! Make a difference! Join us for our Annual Alex Ritchie 5K Color Run & Walk. All proceeds go toward the Alex Ritchie Memorial Fun. Whether you're racing for the win or taking a stroll with friends and family, spend the day with your community while getting active!

Registration Fee: $35 for 5K or Fun Walk

Registration starts at 7:30 a.m., race starts at 8:00 a.m.

The Arctic Dash 6K - 2026 DATES COMING SOON - YMCA Camp Kern (Oregonia)
  • When: TBD
  • Cost: $20-$80
  • Who: Anyone, Age 7+
     
Join us for the 2026 Arctic Dash at YMCA Camp Kern! (35 minutes from Dayton • 30 minutes from Cincinnati • 80 minutes from Columbus)
 
DATE TBD • Waves Begin at 10:00 A.M.
 
With 25+ challenges including mud crawls, trail runs, cable crossings, and more! This a great race for fun runners, beginners, and elite athletes alike, with multiple age categories for male and female runners. There are plenty of chances to win awesome prizes!
 
100% of proceeds go towards sending kids in need to camp in 2025 and beyond!
 
ENTRY FEE INCLUDES:
• Parking
• Beverages & Snacks
• Warm water shower & rinse off area
• Arctic Dash T-Shirt and Medal
 
Fees range from $20-$80 based on wave.