By LUCY BERRES, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS FOR YMCA OF NWNC
The Dirty Dozen 5K and Fun Run Obstacle Mud Run is back on Saturday, September 13 at the Jerry Long Family YMCA, and it’s shaping up to be bigger and better than ever. This exciting event raises funds and awareness for YMCA programs that support individuals facing chronic health conditions in our community.
The Fun Run, great for all ages, starts at 7:30 a.m. The Dirty Dozen 5K is for ages seven and up and begins at 8:00 a.m. with heats running every 10 minutes. In partnership with the Village of Clemmons, the Y will also take part in Clemmons Oktoberfest from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. This free, family friendly festival includes the race awards ceremony, food trucks, inflatables, beer pit by Fiddlin’ Fish Brewing Company, entertainment, sponsor booths and so much more.

Dirty Dozen began in 2018 at the Jerry Long Family YMCA. It consists of several obstacles that challenge runners to climb, crawl and even lift their way to the finish line – with the added challenge of muddy terrain. This race can be completed by individuals, families or teams of four.
“The Dirty Dozen Obstacle Mud Run is not your average 5K or Fun Run. We recommend it for anyone looking for a challenge or just something different,” said Adam Cardwell, race director and the executive director at the Kernersville Family YMCA.
Proceeds from the race will go toward Y community health programs benefiting cancer survivors and other chronic disease programs. We’d like to extend a special shoutout to all of our 2025 race sponsors with an extra big thank you to our Presenting Sponsor and Exclusive Health Care Provider, Novant Health. Your support makes this event – and our impact – possible!

“Races like Dirty Dozen promote physical activity, family fun and teamwork but, most importantly, they support programs at the Y that make a lasting impact on the lives of our neighbors,” said Cardwell.
Register now – space is limited! Grab your friends, lace up your shoes and get ready to make a difference – and get muddy while doing it. Scan the QR code below to register or learn more. For more questions, email [email protected], or call 336.712.2000.
About us: The YMCA of Northwest North Carolina is a nonprofit 501(c)(3). Our Mission: “Helping all people reach their God-given potential in spirit, mind and body.” While our association office is based in Winston-Salem, we have 14 branches located in seven counties – Alexander, Davie, Iredell, Forsyth, Stokes, Wilkes and Yadkin. The YMCA is for Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility.















