Join our Y Charity Runners in 2026—Run & Raise in support of YMCA BC's life-enhancing programs!
YMCA BC is excited to be cheering loud and proud as our Y Charity Runners set out on a journey to run for their "why" in the 2026 BMO Vancouver Marathon, Half Marathon and 8KM race on Sunday, May 3.
Registration for the 2026 event is coming soon!
Not a runner? No problem! Consider volunteering with our YMCA team at the Second Beach Water Station as we high-five and hydrate participants. Check back in the spring for more information.
Questions?
ycharityrunners@bc.ymca.ca
Great fundraising perks for Y Charity Runners!
Our 2025 Y Charity Runners Team raised an amazing $7,500 in support of YMCA BC. Let's set our goal even higher in 2026!
When you join the Y Charity Runners, you can fuel your fundraising with fun, cumulative incentive prizes. The more you raise, the more you'll be rewarded—and the more people you'll help YMCA BC to support in our communities.
Check back soon to learn more about our 2026 fundraising perks!
Join our team of race-day volunteers!
You don't need to be a runner in order to be a crucial part of this year's BMO Vancouver Marathon! Volunteer with us and cheer on the participants as a member of our energetic team.
We're looking for enthusiastic individuals to join us at the Y Charity Water Station located on the Seawall at the Second Beach Pool in Stanley Park.
Time Commitment: 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Interested? Sign up will begin in Spring 2026. Email ycharityrunners@bc.ymca.ca for more information.
Why run? Well, we all have a "why!"
"In 2024, I participated in my first marathon and crawling passed the finish line (literally crawling) was one of my proudest life achievements. What made it super special is that I ran with purpose—raising money so the YMCA can provide financial assistance directly to people who need it most. I believe everyone can reach their potential when they are active, learning and connecting.
— Anna Ramza
Maxime's "why"
"I have many different things I'm running for—my mental health, my discipline—but when you're running for other people as well, that's extra motivation when you're tired.
"You think, 'I can't give up because of them.' You don't want to let other people down."
Maxime is one of our incredible Y Charity Runners! Read more about his story and his motivations for running, or make a donation to support our team!
William's "why"
"I was looking for a spring goal last year and an invitation to join the Y Charity Runners came across my feed. As one to be aware of signs and opportunities, I signed up with the goal of raising $400.
"Through the generosity of YMCA suppliers, contractors, community members, the Prince George Road Runners, family friends and a fundraiser selling cookies for donations (I may have a reputation for baking a pretty mean cookie), I brought in more than 10 times my original goal.
"These donations go towards programs that help families and children at the Prince George Family YMCA. It feels so good to help others succeed!"
—William "Bud" Bruintjes
2025 Y Charity Runner, Half Marathon participant & Top 2025 Fundraiser
I’ve already registered for the BMO Vancouver Marathon but want to join the Y Charity Running Team. Is it too late?
It's not too late, and we’d love to have you! Get in touch at ycharityrunners@bc.ymca.ca and we’ll have you moved over to our team.
Can my friends and family join the Y Charity Runners Team?
Absolutely! Friends and family are encouraged to participate and are eligible for the same fundraising perks when joining our team.
I registered for the event but can no longer participate. What do I do?
All BMO Vancouver Marathon Race Policies apply.
I have a question about the Y Charity Runner Team. Who can I reach out to?
Questions before you commit? Get in touch with us at ycharityrunners@bc.ymca.ca today!