Mike's Run the Chop Challenge 2026

Mike's Run the Chop Challenge 2026

Date: July 4, 2026

Location: 40 West William St, Vineyard Haven, MA

Event URL: Mike's Run the Chop Challenge

Race Overview

• Tradition: Mike's Run the Chop Challenge is a Vineyard tradition on the 4th of July!
• History: This race has been in existence for 25 years, thanks to the efforts of Mike McCourt.
• Fundraising: It has raised over $140,000 for island-based youth programs including Martha's Vineyard Big Brothers Big Sisters, MV Youth Running Club, and Rotary of Martha's Vineyard.
• Community Support: Through the support of our volunteers, the community of Vineyard Haven, and of course our runners, this race continues to be a huge success.

Race Distances

• Options: New this year, runners have two distances to choose from; the traditional 5.25 mile loop around West Chop or a new 3.5 mile loop.
• Start Location: Both events start at the Tisbury School in Vineyard Haven, about 4 blocks up from the boat dock in Vineyard Haven.
• Family Event: The morning starts with a spectator-friendly fun run for kids ages 1-8, followed by the main events.

Registration and Race Day Information

• Bib Pickup: To avoid race day lines, we encourage you to pick up your race bib and race shirt in Vineyard Haven on Thursday, July 3rd from 4:00-5:00 pm, location to be announced.
• Race Day Pickup: Pickup is also available on race day from 7:00-8:30 am at the race start.
• In-person Registration: Late in-person registrations will be taken on Thursday, July 3rd from 4:00-5:00 pm and on race morning from 7:00-8:30 am.
• Registration Limit: This will be a sold-out event. Race shirts are guaranteed to the first 800 registrations only; in-person registrations will be limited to 200.

Parking Information

• Parking Limitations: Parking is very limited. You cannot park at the school!
• Alternative Options: Make arrangements to find street parking, use the Tisbury Park and Ride, bike, carpool, or get someone to drop you off.

Awards and Results

• Awards: Awards will be presented on-site to top male and female overall, and to top three male and female in the standard age divisions, for both events.
• Results: Results will be available at webscorer.com.

Final Note

Thanks, everyone, and we’re looking forward to seeing you!