The sixth annual Ocean City Half Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 27, and race directors are hoping for the biggest turnout ever.
The unique race includes plenty of oceanfront views but also a tour of Ocean City’s downtown and neighborhoods. Community groups man the water stations and compete for the most inspirational themes for runners. And everybody encourages spectators to come out to support the participants.
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Visit www.OCNJ.US/RACE-EVENTS to sign up. There’s still a week left.
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The event this year includes a new course that starts with a loop over the Ninth Street Bridge and halfway across the Route 52 causeway. The event also includes a 5-kilometer run and a non-competitive 10-mile run/walk.
There will be no race-day registration for the half-marathon. For information, call (609) 525-9317. The event benefits Ocean City Recreation Department scholarships and programs. The year’s awards include a new medal design.
For more information on how to participate, spectate or volunteer, visit the event’s Facebook page.
A record field participated in last year’s half marathon on a sunny and hot September day. The 13.1-mile race had 921 finishers led by 38-year-old David Scholl of Glenside, Pa., in 1:20.56. He finished more than two minutes ahead of the next runner, Stephen Eggly, a former winner of the race. Alex Bull, 22, was the first female finisher in 1:27.36.
The 5-kilometer race had 322 finishers.
Another 52 completed the inaugural 10-mile run/walk.
