37th Annual Belmar Five to be held July 13

On Saturday, July 13, the Boro of Belmar and the Goodwill Hose Fire Co., in collaboration with the Jersey Shore Running Club and all the local running clubs, will present the 37th Annual Belmar Five 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 Rob Cavanaugh of West Long Branch in a time of 25:47 and for the women it was Amanda Marino of Jackson in 28:04. This event is a not-for-profit event with all proceeds going to help the volunteer fire company.

Since 2002 the Belmar Five Mile run has been held in memory of long-time 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 Dept. and was a graduate and supporter of the St Rose School, and promoted local sports all of his life.

Along with the main Five Mile event, we offer Kids’ Races scheduled for Friday night, July 12th, all of which have continued to become more popular each of the last several years. There will also be a family movie on Friday night followed by Fireworks on the beach. All events will be held in Belmar, which is known, of course, for its’ beautiful beaches and newly refurbished boardwalk.

Participants on Saturday are treated to post race refreshments and a Health & 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 five mile run.

Last year nearly 3000 participants in the Belmar Five events and hundreds of volunteers made this 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 3500 participants. 

The Belmar Five 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. The five 2013 events are: Spring Lake 5, George Sheehan Classic, Belmar 5, Asbury Park 5K & the Pier House 5K in Long Branch. Further information can be found on the series website, www.jsgrandprix.com

Registration is still available. You can register through the mail, online, or in person Wednesday thru Friday of race week - July 10th, 11th & 12th, 6-8 pm.  For locations and race information: visit www.belmar5.com, or call 732 571 2162.