On July 12, the Borough of Belmar and the Goodwill Hose Fire Co., in collaboration with the Jersey Shore Running Club and other local running clubs, will present the 38th annual Belmar 5-Mile Run. The race has a long history at the Jersey Shore as one of the longest running road races in the area.
It has traditionally attracted some of the top runners. Last year, the men’s champion was Travis Mahoney of Old Bridge in a time of 24:41. For the women, Sarah Cummings of Spring Lake was champion in 28:06. This race is a not-for-profit event, with all proceeds going to help the volunteer fire company.
Along with the main 5-mile event, there will be kids’ races scheduled for July 11, all of which have continued to become more popular over last several years. There will also be a family movie that night, followed by fireworks on the beach. All events will be held in Belmar.
Registration for the Belmar 5-Mile Run is still available. You can register through the mail, online or in person Wednesday through Friday of race week — July 9-11 between 6-8 p.m. For locations and race information, visit www.belmar5.com or call 732-571-2162.
Since 2002, the Belmar 5-Mile Run has been held in memory of longtime Belmar resident, Johnny Cobb. In addition to being an originator of the race, he had a 25-year career in the Belmar Police Department, was a member of the Belmar Fire Department, and was a graduate and supporter of the St. Rose School. Cobb promoted local sports throughout his life.
Participants on race day (July 12) are treated to post-race refreshments and a Health and Vendor Fair in Silver Lake Park. In addition, the random prize drawing, which includes free beach passes to some lucky participants, will take place during the awards ceremony. Over $2,000 in prize money is awarded annually to overall and age group winners. All are then invited to a free post-race party and music at Bar Anticipation, Lake Como, following the 5-mile run.
Last year, nearly 3,000 participants in the Belmar 5-Mile Run events and hundreds of volunteers made the race one of the premier racing events at the Jersey Shore. This year, the goal, with the help of the Jersey Shore Running Club, is to attract 3,500 participants.
The Belmar 5-Mile Run is the third event of the Jersey Shore Golden Grand Prix, sponsored by McLoone’s, a series of races that offers awards and prize money to overall winners and age group category winners, and recognition to those who run all events in the series. The five 2014 events are the Spring Lake 5-Mile Run, George Sheehan Classic, Belmar 5-Mile Run, Asbury Park 5K (Aug. 9) and Pier House 5K (Sept. 1) in Long Branch. Further information can be found on the series website at www.jsgrandprix.com.