The Theodore Trot

We hope you will join us for this year's Reading Lions Journey for Sight 5K!

The Reading Lions Club ("Club") and The Friends of Reading Recreation annually present a family-friendly 5K Road Race and 1 Mile Walk through central Reading. All proceeds from the race are donated to the Massachusetts Lions Eye Research Fund (MLERF), and other local sight-related charities supported by the Club. MLERF finances basic eye research at world renowned institutions such as the Mass. Eye and Ear right here in Boston. Over the years, the Club has donated over $350,000 from the proceeds of this race to MLERF, and we are excited to continue these efforts in conjunction with the Friends of Reading Recreation (FORR).

PRF’s 25th Annual International Race for Research

5K Race & 2-Mile Fun Walk (In Person or Virtual)

Saturday, September 19, 2026

Race Start: 9:00 AM

Registration opens at 7:45 AM.

Celebrate 25 Years

Come join us and hit the streets for the City of Peabody’s largest annual road race — now proudly celebrating our 25th year. We’re excited to mark this special milestone with our incredible community.

This year’s event features a 5K run and a 2-mile fun walk, plus a virtual race option for supporters who can’t join us in person. Whether you're a serious athlete, casual runner, family, or team, this is a great course and a meaningful way to show your support.

The morning includes awards and refreshments for all participants.

Race Pricing

Special 25th Anniversary Registration available until May 31st - $25

June 1st - June 30th $30

July 1st - August 15th $35

August 16th - Race Day $40

Youth ages 3–18: $25 (through race day)

We hope to see you there.

Important Details

The race is rain or shine.

Shirts and shirt sizes are not guaranteed after August 15.

Dogs are welcome for the walk only, must be leashed, and there is no charge.

Participants may join in person in Peabody or virtually from anywhere.

Click to donate to Progeria Research

Join us on Sunday, September 20th in West Peabody at Lt. Ross Park (CyTenny) for the Inaugural SAK Strong 5K run/walk, 1 mile walk and youth FUN run in memory of Chris Sakelakos.

Chris passed away on September 16, 2025 after a long and valiantly fought battle against Osteosarcoma.

We invite you, your family, and friends to participate in the race or walk followed by an after party with live music by Beach Nights, food trucks, raffles, lawn games, beer provided by East Regiment Beer Company, and more. 100% of proceeds will be allocated to the SAK Strong Foundation.

Greater Beverly YMCA Fly By 5K & Kids Fun Run

Sunday, October 18, 2026| Kids Fun Run starts at 8:10am | Race Starts at 8:30 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 swim safety to youth development and childcare. We reinvest millions of dollars each year in financial assistance and scholarships, supporting thousands of families and individuals in the communities we serve.

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 Greater Beverly 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 October 18th for the 2026 Greater Beverly YMCA Fly By 5K, starting and finishing at the Beverly Regional Airport. It’s more than a race—it’s a unique chance to challenge yourself on the airfield grounds while supporting the McPherson Youth Center and the Open Air & Space Museum housed on the airport campus. 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!

Runway Racer: Raise a total of $50.

Skybound Supporter: Raise a total of $100.

Cloud Nine Champion: Raise a total of $250 or more to become one of our top champions!

Race Day Details

Race Start Time: 8:30 AM

Kids Fun Run Time: 8:10 AM

Course Details: Dogs are NOT allowed at the Beverly Regional Airport.

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

Timing: Timing Provided by Bay State Race Services.

Swag: Race shirts (adult are unisex crew neck) and are available on a first come first served while supplies last. Shirts must be picked up by the start of the race.

Parking: Free on-site parking at the airport terminal. Please do not park on the access road.

Bib & Shirt Pick-up at Beverly Regional Airport: October 16th 12-6pm and race day - 7:00 AM at Beverly Regional Airport, Beverly MA

Results, Awards & 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 Beverly residents.

Quick Links & Resources

Discover Beverly:

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

Greater Beverly Chamber

Beverly Main Streets

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