For the past 11 years, Chantelle and Donnie Beland haven’t missed running the Gleason Family YMCA Armed Forces Day 5K. After all, it’s the reason they’re happily married.

The Carver couple were among 83 people that participated Saturday in the race. It has served as the local organization's signature fundraiser for 15 years, according to Cathy Longfield, the Y's membership engagement coordinator.

Donnie and Chantelle first met at the race in 2006. That was when Donnie spotted Chantelle before the start. He found her at the end of the race and the two chatted for 45 minutes.

But he didn’t get her number.

“I was too shy,” recalls Donnie. “I did leave a note on her car before she left. I didn’t want to miss my chance.”

“I still have that note to this day,” said Chantelle.

Two years later the couple married, and they still make the race a priority.

“They called me last October because they were planning a cruise and wanted to make sure they wouldn’t miss it,” said Longfield.

“We changed our plans to be back in time for the race,” said Chantelle. “We never miss it.”

Held in the heart of Onset, the race raises funds for the Y’s financial assistance program, allowing families and individuals of limited means access to affordable memberships.

Longfield said that all expenses are covered by sponsors – such as Cape Cod 5 Cents Bank and Stop & Shop – so that 100 percent of funds raised go toward the Y.

One volunteer on Saturday, Gino McCarthy, said he was eligible for assistance. Instead of accepting, he offered to work for his membership because he believes in the Y’s mission.

On Saturday, the 86-year-old Korean War veteran helped direct runners to the finish line. McCarthy noted that three years ago he participated in the annual Escape the Cape Triathlon, also held in Onset.

“I was the oldest ess-oh-bee to do that race,” he said.

There’s no doubt he was the toughest, too.

For complete race results from this year’s Gleason Family YMCA Armed Forces Day 5K, visit www.jbrace.com.