UW Health

Tri 4 Schools is a part of Active Youth Wisconsin, a nonprofit committed to empowering kids to be happy, healthy, and confident through movement. To support our mission, we donate 100% of youth entry fees to the participants' schools.

We offer 4 in-person course distances for this race. While there are recommended ages listed below, please select the course that best matches your child’s ability and interest, regardless of age. Note that the Long Course is only open to athletes age 7 and older. If your athlete uses a bike with training wheels, they must be registered for the Short Course. There is also an At-Home option for participants who are interested in a virtual option. We strive to make our events accessible for children of all abilities; please contact us if you would like to discuss any specific accommodations for your athlete.

Long Course (recommended ages 11-14): Swim 100 yards (4 lengths of the pool), Bike 4 miles, Run 1.2 miles

Medium Course (recommended ages 7-10): Swim 50 yards (2 lengths of the pool), Bike 2.1 miles, Run 0.7 mile

Intermediate Course (recommended ages 7-10): Swim 25 yards (1 length of the pool), Bike 2.1 miles, Run 0.7 mile

Short Course (recommended ages 3-6): Swim 25 yards (exits 0-depth side of pool), Bike 0.5 mile, Run 0.2 mile

At-Home: Complete your race wherever and whenever you like! Please follow all traffic rules and safety recommendations as you complete your race.

Ironman Wisconsin is one of the most amazing experiences you will ever have. This race will be one to remember for all.

Join us for Madison’s favorite Thanksgiving tradition — the Birdie Derby 10K Run & 5K Run/Walk! Experience the premier Thanksgiving Day race, known for its energy, community spirit, and top-notch race day experience.

What your registration includes:

• Official Race Bib

• Birdie Derby Long-Sleeved Shirt OR Lightweight tech hoodie

• Knit hat!

• KWIK TRIP GLAZER!

• Chocolate milk, banana, water

• Yahara Chocolate

• Birdie Derby Village unlike any other (fun for all)

• Free Oasis Cafe coffee and hot chocolate before and after the race

• Free Race Photos

• Professional Race Timing by Sportstats on an accurately measured course

If you have a little one (2-6), they can participate in the Kids Dash, a great way to start the day! It is free with a paid adult registration.

Can't make it on race day, and you don't want to miss out on the tradition? Sign up for the virtual Birdie Derby!

What your virtual registration includes:

• Birdie Derby Long-Sleeved Shirt (OR crewneck upgrade)

• Winter hat!

*Your race packet will be mailed the Tuesday after Thanksgiving to the address submitted during registration. To update your address, please log in to your RunSignup account. You can pick up your packet during our normal Packet Pick-Up hours.

*Virtual participants do not qualify for any awards.

*Virtual participants are eligible to join in-person teams.

Any changes to registrations must be completed before Monday, November 23, 2026. No changes from in-person to virtual are accepted after this time.

Did you know that the Birdie Derby is the ONLY Thanksgiving race that donates 100% of proceeds? The Birdie Derby supports Active Youth Wisconsin (formerly Tri 4 Schools), a local organization creating accessible opportunities for kids to be active. Your participation funds financial aid for kids to receive shoes, bikes, swim lessons, and more, so they can participate in events and programs that help them recognize the mental and physical benefits of regular movement. Together, we're building a stronger, healthier community! Learn more about Active Youth Wisconsin here.

Race website: runthederby.com

Race Location:

Fitchburg Business Park

5200 E Cheryl Pkwy, Fitchburg WI 53711

Pre-Race Packet Pickup Schedule

November 24 - 12pm – 7pm

November 25 - 7am – 2pm

Perennial Yoga, 5500 E Cheryl Pkwy Suite 101, Fitchburg, WI 53711

Thanksgiving Day Race Schedule

8:00 am Kids Dash

8:30 am 10K Run Start

8:50 am 5K Run Start

9:00 am 5K Walk Start