NILES, Mich. – The Niles-Buchanan YMCA will host its 38th annual Thanksgiving Day Run on Thursday, November 28. Since its inception in 1981, the race has become a tradition in the Michiana community, bringing people together in the spirit of community and giving. Last year, over 2,300 runners from 32 states were represented.
The idea originally came from Ted Majerek, a Niles businessman who saw the need for an event that would get the community active. Originally just a 10K and a 1 Mile Fun Run, the event has grown to include a 5K race as well.
“We encourage families to come out to the race and be healthy together while having fun,” said Jill Haboush, Race Director and VP of Fund Development and Marketing at the YMCA of Southwest Michigan. “It’s become a tradition for families to run the race together or volunteer while supporting a good cause.”
Proceeds from this event support the Y’s annual campaign which provides the opportunity for hundreds of children in the community to attend youth programming at little or no cost, as well as provides financial support to families through membership scholarships.
Registration for Thanksgiving Day Run is currently open. Participants can register for $30 per person or $25 per person for households of 2-8 participants, until Tuesday, November 26 at 11:59 p.m. when online registration closes. Beginning Wednesday, November 27, prices increase to $35 per person with no discounts and registration must be done at the Y.
Thanksgiving Day Run starts and finishes at the Niles-Buchanan YMCA located at 905 N. Front Street, Niles, MI 49120. The 10K run will begin at 7:45 a.m, with the 5K run/walk following at 9:15 a.m. and the 1 Mile Fun Run at 9:30 a.m.
To learn more about the Niles-Buchanan YMCA Thanksgiving Day Run and to register, please visit our website at ymcaswm.com or call the Y at 269-683-1552.
