Healthy Kids Running Series Spring 2026 - Plaistow, NH

Plaistow Community YMCA

5K Color Run & Kids Fun Run

PERMIT PENDING

Saturday, September 12, 2026 | Kids Fun Run Race Starts 8:45 AM | Race Starts 9:00 AM

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 youth development and childcare to Corner Stone, our YMCA Cancer Support Initiative. We are committed to strengthening our community by ensuring these vital resources remain accessible to everyone who needs them.

Your registration supports this essential mission, ensuring we can continue to help those in our community who need the Y most. Your commitment directly strengthens the Plaistow Community YMCA and the neighbors we serve every day. By participating, you’re not just running a race—you’re making a life-changing impact.

Get your running shoes ready! Join us on Saturday, September 12th for the 2026 Color Run 5K Road Race and Kids Fun Run. Starting at scenic Woodlock Park, you'll wind through charming neighborhoods on a picturesque, flat, and runner-friendly course. It’s more than a race—it’s a chance to challenge yourself on a beautiful course and finish strong in support of a life-changing 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 by reaching one of our meaningful fundraising levels! Every dollar you raise supports vital Y programs in our community.

The Starting Line: Registration Level. Simply signing up supports our cause and starts the transformation!

Woodlock Wayfarer: Raise a total of $300 and receive a sweatshirt

Meeting Rock Runner: Raise a total of $600 and receive a sweatshirt and a gym bag.

True Colors Champion: Raise a total of $1,250 or more to become one of our top champion and receive a sweatshirt, gym bag & a vest

Race Day Details

Race Start Time: 9:00 AM

Course Details: Strollers are welcome! Please note: Dogs are NOT allowed.

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

Awards:

• 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 from Plaistow and from Atkinson.

Swag: Tee Shirt first come first served while supplies last. Shirts must be picked up by the start of the race. Other swag will include fun Color Run accessories!

Swag Pick-up: Begins at 7:30 AM at Woodlock Park, Atkinson NH

Quick Links & Resources

Discover Plaistow:

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

Plaistow NH Chamber of Commerce

Visit Plaistow

Discover Atkinson:

Town of Atkinson

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

The Winner's Circle Running Club hosts the 2026 Santa's Toy Trot on Sunday 12/13/2026 beginning at 10:00 A.M.. Participants have the option to run 2,4 or 6 miles. The race starts at the Sweetsir School in Merrimac, MA. Participants run a 2-mile loop that starts and finishes at the school. The two mile loop allows runners to decide whether or not they want to stop or keep on going to complete 4 or 6 miles. Strategy is key!!! The run is chipped timed with Male/Female overall awards in each distance followed by age group awards (10 year age group). Starting at age 60, age groups are 5 year age groups until 90+!!!, and prizes will be awarded two deep. Prior to the actual race children, 10 and under, are welcome to participate in a fun run around the elementary school led by a Winner's Circle Running Club Member, free of charge. A portion of the proceeds supports the Merrimac Holiday Helper Program, a program that supports Merrimac Families through the holidays. A giveway, yet to be

determined, will be provided to the first 200 Registrants!!! New England weather can be hard to predict however, the race will be held regardless of the weather unless the roads are closed by the police. Race entry fees are non-refundable. For more information, email [email protected].

Every participant is asked to don your most outrageous Ugly Christmas Sweater at the Santa’s Toy Trot on Sunday December 13th, 2026 to keep the holiday spirit alive. Prizes available for the best dressed participant wearing the most outrageous sweater!!! This spirited race is perfect for participants of all ages and abilities, combining the joy of the season with a good cause. The all-paved flat surfaces, and the charming streets of Merrimac make it perfect for families, pets and stroller friendly. Participants can run a single loop (2 miles), double loop or triple loop for your chance to win an age group award. Lace up your running shoes and enjoy the FUN!!!

About the WCRC:

The Winner's Circle Running Club is a USATF certified, affiliate member of the Road Runners Club of America and a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, who's goal is to provide equal opportunities for everyone to participate in and contribute to the sport of running, where all are safe, welcome and have a sense of belonging.