Thousands Participate in 16th Annual Phillies Charities 5K

Runners raise funds for Phillies Charities, Inc. at Citizens Bank Park event

Mar. 24, 2026 at 9:37am

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Over 6,000 fans showed up to Citizens Bank Park on a beautiful spring morning to participate in the 16th annual Phillies Charities 5K presented by Fox Chase Cancer Center. The 3.1 mile race raised funds for Phillies Charities, Inc. and featured appearances by Phillies alumni Dickie Noles and Milt Thompson, as well as the Phillie Phanatic. Matt Gillette, 34, from Allentown, Pa. was the top male finisher, while Whitney Heydenreich, 38, from Danville, Pa. was the top female finisher.

Why it matters

The annual Phillies Charities 5K is a longstanding community event that brings together thousands of fans to support the team's charitable initiatives. In a city with a rich sports culture, events like this help strengthen the bond between the Phillies organization and its dedicated fanbase.

The details

The 16th edition of the Phillies Charities 5K saw participants race around the course at Citizens Bank Park, with Phillies alumni Dickie Noles and Milt Thompson greeting runners along the way. The Phillie Phanatic also joined in the festivities, leading the pack on his ATV. After crossing the finish line, runners were awarded medals by the Phillies Ballgirls and had the opportunity to cool down with a lap around the field.

  • The 16th annual Phillies Charities 5K took place on March 23, 2026, just 5 days before the start of the MLB season.
  • The race concluded with runners completing a cooldown lap around Citizens Bank Park.

The players

Matt Gillette

A 34-year-old runner from Allentown, Pa. who finished first in the men's race with a time of 15:05.

Whitney Heydenreich

A 38-year-old runner from Danville, Pa. who finished first in the women's race with a time of 18:27.

Dickie Noles

A Phillies alumni who greeted runners along the course.

Milt Thompson

A Phillies alumni who also greeted runners along the course.

Phillie Phanatic

The Phillies' beloved mascot who led the pack of runners on his ATV.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

The Phillies Charities 5K is a beloved annual tradition that brings the team's passionate fanbase together to support important community initiatives. In an era of increasing corporate influence in professional sports, events like this demonstrate the Phillies' continued commitment to grassroots engagement and giving back to their local community.