As summer fades into fall, that can only mean one thing: it’s time for the 43rd Annual Turkey Chase Charity Race at Bethesda-Chevy Chase! Whether you’re lacing up to run, walking with friends, or watching from home, you’re part of something special this year.
Why is Turkey Chase Important?
Since its start in 1982, the Turkey Chase has been so much more than a race. Hosted by the YMCA Bethesda-Chevy Chase in partnership with the Bethesda Chevy Chase Rotary Club, it has raised millions for kids, families, and community programs. Here’s why we love it:
- Youth Development: When families sign up or donate, they help fund summer-camp scholarships, after-school programs, youth sports and more.
- Healthy Living: The Turkey Chase encourages folks of all ages to move – whether that’s a 10K run, a 2-mile walk, or a virtual bike ride.
- Social Responsibility: When you participate or donate, you’re investing in neighbors, veterans, and seniors who rely on YMCA services county-wide.
How to Get Involved with the YMCA Turkey Chase
If you wish to get involved with the YMCA Turkey Chase, you have a few options available to you including attending the live event, participating virtually, and donating to the cause.
To participate live:
- Register online for the in-person 10K or the 2-Mile Walk/Run. Registration is open until race day.
- Packet pickup is at the YMCA Bethesda-Chevy Chase (9401 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD 20814) on November 25th (10 a.m.–8 p.m.), November 26th (10 a.m.–8 p.m.), and race-morning, November 27th (6:30–8:45 a.m.).
- On race day: arrive early, get your bib, enjoy the energy, run or walk, cheer each other on—and leave knowing you helped make someone’s life better.
To participate virtually:
- Pick your event: virtual 10K, 5K, 2-Mile Walk, 10-Mile Bike, 400yd Swim or 1 Mile Swim.
- Register by November 18th for virtual categories. Then complete your event any time between November 24th and November 30th.
- Track your progress, share on social media, celebrate your finish, and know you’ve supported a good cause.
To donate or fundraise:
- Visit the “Donate” or “Become a Fundraiser” pages.
- Set a fundraising goal. For example: $250 = a scholarship for camp; $500 = healthy food and cooking classes for families; $1,000 = a week of programming for teens, veterans, seniors.
- Share with your friends and family. Use the tools provided to post your progress, your story, and your reason for supporting, and watch your community rally with you.
Make a Difference with the YMCA Turkey Chase
The 43rd Annual Turkey Chase at Bethesda-Chevy Chase isn’t just another race on the calendar. It’s a chance to show up for community, for youth, for health, for gratitude. Whether you’re jogging the 10K, strolling the 2-mile, biking virtually, or contributing a gift, you’re making a difference.
Let’s do this together. Because our kids, families, seniors and friends need the very best we can give – and every step, every dollar, every story counts. Register today!