Mike's Run the Chop Challenge takes place at 40 West William Street in Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts, on July 4, 2026. The event features a 5-mile running course and starts at 8:45 AM. Entry fees range from $5 to $30, making it an accessible option for runners of varying budgets. The race is scheduled for Independence Day, so plan accordingly if you're combining your race weekend with holiday activities on Martha's Vineyard.
From the Race Organizer
Mike's Run the Chop Challenge is a Vineyard tradition on the 4th of July! This race has been in existence for 25 years, thanks to the efforts of Mike McCourt. It has raised over $140,000 for island based youth programs including the Martha's Vineyard Big Brothers Big Sisters, The MV Youth Running Club, and Rotary of Martha's Vineyard. Through the support of our volunteers, the community of Vineyard Haven, and of course our runners, this race continues to be a huge success and a great way to kick off the 4th! New this year, runners have two distances to choose from; the traditional 5.25 mile loop around West Chop or a new 3.3 mile loop. Both events start at the Tisbury School in Vineyard Haven, about 4 blocks up from the boat dock in Vineyard Haven. Meant for the whole family, the morning starts with a spectator friendly fun run for kids ages 1-8, followed by the main events. To avoid race day lines, we encourage you to pick up your race bib and race shirt in Vineyard Haven on Friday, July 3rd from 4:00-5:00 pm, at the Tisbury School. We also offer pickup on race day from 7:00-8:30 am at the race start. Please note the location as this has changed back to the pre-covid years. Late in-person registrations will be taken on Friday, July 3rd from 4:00- 5:00 pm at the Tisbury School, and on race morning from 7:00-8.30 at the race start; race shirts not guaranteed. This will be a sold out event. Race shirts guaranteed to the first 650 registrations only. In-person registrations will be limited to 200. Please come early if you plan on registering in person. PARKING IS VERY LIMITED. You cannot park at the school! Please make arrangements to find street parking, use the Tisbury Park and Ride, bike, car-pool or get someone to drop you off. AWARDS will be presented on-site to top male and female overall, and to top male and female in the standard age divisions, for both events. RESULTS available at webscorer.com Thanks, everyone, and we’re looking forward to seeing you!
Hotels Near This Race
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Mike’s Run the Chop Challenge 2026 — Vineyard Haven, MA
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for July 4.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Vineyard Haven, MA.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is Mike’s Run the Chop Challenge 2026 — Vineyard Haven, MA?
Mike’s Run the Chop Challenge 2026 — Vineyard Haven, MA takes place on July 4, 2026. The race is held in Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts.
Where is Mike’s Run the Chop Challenge 2026 — Vineyard Haven, MA held?
Mike’s Run the Chop Challenge 2026 — Vineyard Haven, MA is held at 40 West William St in Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts.
Where can I find hotels near Mike’s Run the Chop Challenge 2026 — Vineyard Haven, MA?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Vineyard Haven. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
