13th Annual YMCA Strides For Kids 5K Dash

Lace up your shoes for a purpose at the 13th Annual YMCA Strides For Kids 5K Dash on Saturday, April 11, 2026, in Montgomery, Alabama. This beloved community event, starting and finishing at the Emory Folmar YMCA Soccer Complex, offers a fantastic 5K distance that runners of all levels will appreciate. The course is notably "flat and fast," with a minimal total elevation gain of approximately 16 feet, winding around the soccer complex, along Brown Springs Road, and through the AUM campus, providing a smooth and enjoyable run for personal bests or a leisurely stroll. Typical race day conditions in early April feature comfortable highs around 79°F and lows around 53°F, with a low chance of precipitation, creating ideal weather for an energetic morning outdoors.

More than just a race, the YMCA Strides For Kids 5K Dash is a vital fundraiser for the YMCA of Greater Montgomery's Annual Giving Campaign and its impactful Mobile Feeding Program, "The Brown Bag Bus." Participants directly contribute to feeding children, ensuring access to essential YMCA programs regardless of ability to pay, and expanding youth sports and TOPSoccer for kids with diverse abilities. As a token of appreciation, registered 5K participants typically receive a high-quality race shirt and a finisher's medal, making your accomplishment even more memorable.

The race day atmosphere is family-friendly, often including a 1 Mile Fun Run alongside the 5K, perfect for younger participants or those seeking a shorter distance. A post-race celebration awaits finishers with refreshments, snacks, and awards for top performers across various age categories. Join fellow runners and walkers in Montgomery for an inspiring day of fitness, community spirit, and meaningful impact, knowing every stride helps local kids thrive.