Registration
Where do I find my registration confirmation?
Click here to find your confirmation.
What is included in the entry fee?
Your entry fee includes:
- Souvenir T-shirt
- Finisher medal (for those who cross the finish line)
- Personalized run bib if registered by noon on Monday, September 14, 2026.
- A great post-run party
- Official race timing by Chiptime Results
- Helping kids experience the magic of YMCA Camps
- All taxes and processing fees included
When does registration close?
Registration closes on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 5 pm.
Is registration capped?
Yes, registration is capped at 1,500 participants.
Is there a time limit?
Yes, the course will be open for 75 minutes before the finish line is dismantled.
Can children participate?
Yes. The Y5K is a family-friendly event, and all ages are welcome to attend.
- Children must be at least 6 years old to register as a participant.
- Children 12 years and under must be accompanied by an adult.
- Children under 6 are welcome to participate, whether walking or in a stroller or baby jogger. They do not require registration and will not receive a bib, T-shirt, or finisher medal.
- Only registered participants receive an official bib, souvenir T-shirt, and finisher medal (if they cross the finish line).
Are walkers allowed?
Yes! Walkers are encouraged to participate. Please select your estimated finish time appropriately during the registration process.
I have a conflict. Can I get a refund?
All entries are non-refundable. Please review our full Refund and Transfer Policy.
Is there a virtual race option?
No, the YMCA Charity 5K is an in-person event only.
Swag
Can I get my event swag after the event is over?
No. Swag cannot be picked up or mailed after the event day.
Are there finisher medals?
Yes! Only registered participants who cross the finish line will receive a finisher medal.
Fundraising
What is the charitable cause?
All proceeds from the YMCA Charity 5K will help send kids to YMCA camps. Our goal is to raise $500,000 to support more than 1,300 children.
Why should I fundraise for the YMCA?
The YMCA of Greater Toronto is a charity dedicated to helping people grow, lead, and thrive in their communities. Through fundraising, the YMCA helps send more kids to camps, where they can build confidence, develop new skills, and create lasting memories.
Are there fundraising prizes?
Yes! We are incredibly grateful for your support. As a thank you, we offer a series of special rewards. For the full list, see our fundraising incentives.
Fundraising ends October 31, 2026. Please allow 6 to 8 weeks after this date for registration fee reimbursements and incentives to be processed.
Will I receive a charitable tax receipt?
Yes, tax receipts are issued by Race Roster on behalf of the YMCA of Greater Toronto for donations of $10 or more. If you have any questions or are missing a tax receipt, please contact giving@ymcagta.org.
Run Details
What time does the race start?
The 5K starts at 9 am.
Is the race ‘chip’ timed?
Yes, all distances are professionally timed by Chiptime Results using the BibTag timing system.
Are there finisher medals?
Yes! Only registered participants who cross the finish line will receive a finisher medal.
What is the route like?
The 5K route follows the scenic, paved paths around Downsview Park.
What happens in case of bad weather?
The YMCA Charity 5K will take place rain or shine!
Shuttle Busses
Are there shuttle busses?
Yes. Round-trip transportation is provided from select YMCA locations to and from Downsview Park.
- Shuttle bus tickets are available for purchase until noon on Monday, September 14, 2026.
- Each participant may purchase up to six tickets for family and friends.
Can I bring a stroller on the shuttle bus?
Only folding strollers are permitted due to space limitations.
What are the shuttle bus pickup and drop-off times?
- Pickup: 6:45 am at all locations. Please arrive on time to avoid missing your bus.
- Arrival at Downsview Park: 8 am
- Departure from Downsview Park: 11:15 am
Course Limitations
Can anyone cross the finish line?
Only registered participants are permitted to cross the finish line.
Can I wear headphones on the course?
Yes, but if you choose to wear headphones or earbuds, please keep the volume low to stay aware of your surroundings and hear course marshal instructions.
Can I run with my dog?
No, dogs are not allowed on the course, except for service dogs.
Are bikes, scooters, skateboards, or rollerblades allowed on the course?
No. For safety reasons, bikes, skateboards, scooters, and rollerblades/inline skates are NOT allowed on the route.
Are wheelchairs allowed?
Yes, traditional wheelchairs are permitted. However, three-wheeled racing wheelchairs are not allowed for safety reasons.
Volunteering Questions
Do you need volunteers?
Yes! We need many volunteers in different positions to help make the event a success.
How can I sign up to volunteer?
Register by signing up on our Volunteer Form, and a team member will follow up with more details.
Will I receive high school volunteer hours?
Yes! Since the YMCA Charity 5K is a charity event, all high school students collecting hours for their OSSD Community Service Requirement will receive a record of their time.
Still have questions?
If your question isn’t answered here, contact us.
