Big Cheese 5K

Welcome to the 2026 Athol Area YMCA's Big Cheese 5K!

Whether you’ve been with us from our humble beginnings in 2010 or are new to this “Cheesy Experience,” we are so glad to have you as a part of the race.

The Big Cheese 5K is a blast! You’ll feel accomplished. And most importantly, you’ll know that you’ve done your part to help build programs for others in need.

This year, we are raising funds to make exciting, much-needed improvements to our facilities, including a gym floor in our Main Street Gym, upgrading and expanding our Orange location, and adding new equipment and Healthy Living programs at both locations. The YMCA is a non-profit organization that partly relies on the community for continued support, which, in turn, can give back to the community by offering supportive, fun, and exciting healthy living activities such as the LiveStrong program (a supportive program to build back strength and spirit for cancer survivors), yoga, childcare, senior citizen exercise programs, swimming lessons, sports, weightlifting and so much more! 

As we gear up for the 2026 race, we are seeking your support. Donations will help offset the event's costs, including SecondWind Timing for a competitive or non-competitive race experience. Not only does this strengthen our event and community, but it also allows all of our race registrations to go directly to the important facility updates and community-strengthening causes we support. Please consider how you can help this year!

Please consider contributing your tax-deductible donation today by tapping "Donate" below.