Y Runners & Triathlons

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Improving Form, Pace & Endurance

Do you have an aspiring runner interested in learning more about the sport? Y Runners is designed for kids, ages 6 to 14, who wish to get intentional individual training in endurance, cross-country, running technique and sprinting.

Program

Structure

Y Runners will meet twice weekly for an hour to an hour and 15 minutes. Runners are separated into age-appropriate groups for trainings and workouts. Races and practices will be held at the registered branch.*

Focus

Athletes are introduced to form and technique as well as a program designed to increase stamina. Runners will aim to build confidence and enhance endurance.

Outcomes

Athletes will participate in two cross-country meets, as well as time trials throughout the season to measure their individual improvement.

*Note: Program locations are subject to change based on overall participation.

Registration Dates

Spring Season
Feb. 1: Members; Feb. 15: Program Participants

Fall Season
June 1: Members; June 15: Program Participants

2026 Fall Season

Sept. 7 - Oct. 31
U7-U10 & U11-14

Chatham Park YMCA: (Mondays & Wednesdays, Sept. 7 - Oct. 28)
Kraft Family YMCA: Monday & Wednesday evenings with scheduled Saturday race
Taylor Family YMCA: Tuesday & Thursday evenings with scheduled Saturday race

Pricing and Registration

Youth Triathon

Each year, the YMCA of the Triangle introduces more than 200 kids ages 7 – 14 to the excitement of triathlon racing. Scheduled for Aug. 23, 2026, the Finley Frenzy is a late‑summer youth triathlon designed to be fun, supportive and age‑appropriate for first‑time and returning athletes.

Event Info

Youth Running & Triathlons

Parents are expected to remain onsite (fields and gyms) as the primary supervisor of their child. This includes taking their children to the restroom and addressing any challenges that may arise. This allows our coaches to focus on leading practices and games. In addition, YMCA sports staff will be present at all practices and games.

Youth sports soccer teams are led by volunteer coaches. All volunteer coaches undergo a background check and training. Opportunities are available for coaches and assistant coaches at all locations.

The Benefits of Youth Sports

Learning new skills, social interactions and exercise all contribute to a well-rounded child.

Skill Development

Learning to dribble a ball, guard a player, shoot a basket and run the court are examples of new skills kids learn through youth sports. They teach dexterity, motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

Good Sportsmanship

We don’t keep an official score for younger players. We clap for all the goals and always shake hands at the end of every game. Learning to win and lose gracefully is a skill everyone can use.

Teamwork

Learning how to work and get along with others is a part of being on a team. But this skill reaches far beyond the field or court and into the classroom and life.

Sports Camp

YMCA Sports Summer Day Camps offer kids a full summer of basketball, soccer, flag football, baseball or a mix of all sports. Our camps focus on a different sport each week. Skill development, drills, and scrimmages are part of each week, as camp assemblies and swim time.

Learn More

Sports Directors

Please contact us with questions about YMCA Youth Running & Triathlons.

Alexander Family and Southeast Raleigh YMCA: Eric Rhinehalt
Chatham Park YMCA: Annalee Workman
Kraft Family YMCA: Kelly Guerriero
Northwest Cary and Taylor Family YMCAs: Mark Simmons