The countdown to the 2026 Blue Nose Marathon race weekend is on, and runners across the province are getting excited! Doctors Nova Scotia (DNS) is proud to continue its decades long sponsorship of the race; in fact, 2026 marks the association’s 22nd year as sponsor of the Doctors Nova Scotia Youth Run.

A legacy for health
The DNS Youth Run has been inspiring kids (and their families) to get into running for decades  – but it’s not just about the race. It’s about helping young people build healthy habits, resilience and a sense of achievement that can last a lifetime.

“Seeing the excitement as runners cross the finish line is pure joy,” said Dr. Amanda MacDonald Green, DNS President-elect. “To have a sense of accomplishment from moving your body in a way that is fun is a memory that participants will carry forward and will influence their approach to movement and wellness as they grow. I am proud that DNS has led this event for over 20 years.” 

Brings kids and families together
More than 3,000 kids participate in the DNS Youth Run each year, filling the streets of Halifax with their unbridled energy and enthusiasm. Kids can choose to run a short (2 km) or long (4 km) route. Training for and participating in the DNS Youth Run is a great way for families to get active together.

“The DNS Youth Run is an amazing and wonderful contribution to the well-being of children and families,” said Dr. David Zitner. “The smiles of children and parents as they crossed the finish line together were inspiring, as was the enthusiasm of DNS staff and DNS members.” 

Doctors key to its success
Doctors Nova Scotia members volunteer to help at the race each year, with some members making it a family tradition.

“I brought my daughter to volunteer two years ago, and we had so much fun handing out DNS swag, painting blue noses on all the young runners and cheering on those young athletes,” said Dr. Lorri Beatty. “It was such a great way to feel involved in the community in a positive way.” 

Kids Run Club connection
This year, participants will see physicians and medical learners on the race course and off. Participants will be accompanied along the route by medical student “running buddies” who volunteer for the Kids Run Club (KRC). (Fun fact: many running buddies were once KRC members themselves!)

Doctors and med students will be waiting at the finish line to hand out participant medals; kids will also have a chance to pose in front of the association’s snazzy new race banner and pick up a souvenir headband from a DNS volunteer before or after the race.

Register today!
The DNS Youth Run at the Blue Nose Marathon happens on Saturday, May 16. Registration is now open.

P.S. Not in HRM? Doctors Nova Scotia’s commitment to youth and healthy living extends across the province. The association also sponsors Blue Nose local community runs in May and June, and the Cape Breton Fiddlers DNS Youth Run on Sunday, June 14.

Pictured above: the new logo for the Doctors Nova Scotia Youth Run was designed by Trackside Studios.

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