
PITTSBURGH – The 30th annual Dollar Bank Junior Great Race kicked off Great Race weekend with a morning of fun, fitness, and family-friendly excitement in Downtown Pittsburgh’s Gateway Center. More than 500 kids and their families participated in the milestone event, which has introduced thousands of young runners to the joy of movement over the last three decades.
Children ages 12 and under took part in the One-Mile Family Fun Run, toddlers dashed down a grassy stretch in the Tot Trot, and the tiniest racers made their debut in the Diaper Dash. Each child earned a finisher’s medal, goodie bag, souvenir hat, hot dog, and a Smiley Cookie courtesy of Eat’n Park at the finish line.
Families also enjoyed activities including face painting, balloons, crafts, and a photo booth. Popular Pittsburgh mascots — including the Pittsburgh Pierogies, Eat’n Park Smiley Cookie, Buster the Recycling Racoon, McGruff the Crime Dog, Amo from the Riverhounds, and Frankie the Fish from Alcosan — cheered on participants and helped create a festive atmosphere.
“The Dollar Bank Junior Great Race is all about inspiring the next generation to get moving,” said Race Director Brian Katze. “It’s always incredible to see so many kids cross the finish line smiling — and to know that many of these families will be back tomorrow to take on the 5K or 10K.”
Click here to view and download photos from the 2025 event. For additional details, visit
www.RunGreatRace.com.
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About the Richard S. Caliguiri City of Pittsburgh Great Race
Each year on the last Sunday of September, the starting gun sounds for a world-class road race that has become a true Pittsburgh tradition for the past 48 years. The Great Race – established as a 10K race by the late Mayor Richard S. Caliguiri – has attracted nearly a half million participants since 1977. Over the years, this popular fall fitness classic has grown to include a 5K run/walk and children’s race. For more information about the Richard S. Caliguiri City of Pittsburgh Great Race, visit www.RunGreatRace.com
About P3R
P3R is the engine behind Pittsburgh’s greatest races. We strive to inspire any and all to MOVE with us. Best known for organizing the acclaimed annual DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, P3R runs a variety of other high-quality races, events, and health and fitness programs throughout the Pittsburgh region. While many of our races attract some of the nation’s highest-profile professional athletes, we offer activities for all ages and ability levels. Anyone and everyone is invited to #RUNwithP3R! Read more at: P3R.org