Ipswich Family YMCA Run For The Pies

Don’t miss this popular half marathon on one of the prettiest courses you’ll ever run! The Ipswich Ale Half Marathon starts and finishes at beautiful Crane Beach in Ipswich, MA. Runners climb up and around the spectacular Crane Estate in the first mile - “Storming the Castle!” - before heading west on Argilla Road past open farmland, picturesque salt marshes and classic New England stone walls. The course winds through scenic neighborhoods along the Ipswich River before runners turn around and head back to Argilla Road and the final four miles to the finish line. To celebrate your race back at the beach, enjoy traditional runner recovery food, fresh pizza, grilled hot dogs and, of course, Ipswich Ale!

Hosted by the Ipswich-Rowley Rotary, the Ipswich Ale Half Marathon would not be possible without the generosity of our sponsors, partners and dozens of volunteers. Proceeds from the race are used by the Ipswich-Rowley Rotary Charitable Trust to support a number of local charities. We want to thank our principle sponsors - Ipswich Ale Brewery and the Institution for Savings - for all that they do to make this race a success. We also want to express our gratitude to the Trustees of Reservations, the Ipswich YMCA, and BankGloucester for their extensive support.

Chase the Butterfly Family 5K Road Race and Kids Fun Run

Saturday May 2, 2026 | Kids Fun Run Race Starts 9:30 AM | Race Starts 10:00 AM

PERMIT PENDING

Run for a Reason: Your Support Makes the Difference

Run for a reason. The Y is dedicated to ensuring everyone has access to our programming and services, from life-saving swim safety to youth development and childcare. Your registration supports this essential mission, ensuring we can continue to help those in our community who need the Y most.

This year, your impact goes even further. We are proud to collaborate with the CureCMT4J Foundation for the Chase the Butterfly 5K. CureCMT4J is an Ipswich-based nonprofit dedicated to finding a cure for an extremely rare, deadly neurological disease similar to ALS.

Get your running shoes ready! Join us at New England Biolabs to run or walk in support of our community and local heroes like Talia Duff. It’s more than a race—it’s a chance to strengthen our community bonds and fund a life-saving mission. We can’t wait to see you at the starting line!

Race Map

Go the Extra Mile: Our Fundraising Levels

Join our mission to provide financial assistance and fund a cure by reaching one of our meaningful fundraising levels! Every dollar you raise supports vital Y programs and the CureCMT4J Foundation.

• Chrysalis: Registration Level. Simply signing up supports our cause and starts the transformation!

• Caterpillar: Raise a total of $50. You’re helping our community programs grow and thrive.

• Butterfly: Raise a total of $100.00. Your support is taking flight and spreading hope.

• Flight!: Raise a total of $250.00 or more to become one of our top champions and lead the way to a cure!

Race Day Details

Kids Fun Run: 9:30 AM

Race Start Time: 10:00 AM

Location: New England Biolabs: 240 County Rd, Ipswich, MA 01938

Course Details: This course is stroller and dog friendly (well-behaved dogs only).

Refund Policy: All sales are final, no refunds will be offered.

Timing: Timing Provided by Bay State Race Services

Swag: Tee Shirt first come first served while supplies last. Shirts must be picked up by the start of the race.

Parking: Free on-site parking in the garage and surface lots.

Friday Pick-up: Friday, May 1st 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Ipswich Family YMCA 110 County, Ipswich

Race Day Pick-up: Begins at 8:30 AM at New England Biolabs

Results, Awards and Celebration

• Results: Posted at the finish line and emailed to participants post-race.

• Overall Winners: Medals for 1st Place Male & Female.

• Age Groups: Medals for Top 3 Male & Female: 13 & under, 14–19, 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69, 70+.

• Open Categories: Medals for Top 3 Non-binary and Top 3 Wheelchair finishers.

• Local Honors: Special prizes for the 1st Place Male & Female Ipswich residents.

• Pre- and Post-Race Party!: Rock out with live music from Tri-Town Rock Band and Bottles and Cans. Grab a bite from the Beefie Boys food truck and enjoy a complimentary beer or NA beverage from True North Ale Company (21+, ID required).

Quick Links & Resources

Discover Ipswich:

Your guide to the local business community; find the best places to shop, dine, and stay in the region.

Cape Ann & Ipswich Chamber

Visit Ipswich

YMCA Member Resources:

Our Y welcomes ALL. We strengthen communities, educate and nurture children, and promote healthy living in spirit, mind, and body.

YMCA of the Northshore

Upcoming YMCA Races and Community Events:

Join us for Road Races, Golf Tournaments, Galas, and other Special Events!

Fundraising and Community Events

Come enjoy beautiful ocean views as you run along the scenic coastline of Great Neck! On the course you'll race past some of the oldest and most historical homes (pre-revolution) in the entire country. You'll enjoy breathtaking views in this charming coastal community!

Kids 5K registration only $10.00! (12 & under)

YuKan is celebrating our 15th Anniversary in 2026! Register for the Six Pack Challenge and Save 15% on all six half marathons!