Event Details
Nearly 250 women runners and walkers are expected to gather at Thompson Park on Saturday, August 29, 2026, to raise funds and awareness for organizations that provide vital services to women and their children throughout Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
Presented by the Jersey Shore Running Club, the 33rd Annual Saturday in the Park 5K, "Women Taking Steps to Help Women," is a rain-or-shine event featuring a Women's 5K Run and Scenic 3-Mile Walk beginning at 8:30 a.m., followed by Children's Races for Girls and Boys at approximately 9:30 a.m. Participants can enjoy a free pre-race warm-up, sponsor expo, refreshments, and family-friendly activities.
Race day registration and check-in begin at 7:30 a.m. All women registered for the 5K will receive a women's cut moisture-wicking race shirt and a finisher's gift. Registration is $30 through July 26, $35 after July 26, and $5 for the Children's Races.
"We are excited to celebrate the 33rd anniversary of Saturday in the Park," said Race Directors Penny Hinck and Marianne Ploskonka. "Each year this event supports organizations that provide shelter, counseling, advocacy, and education for women and their families. One of the most meaningful traditions is our opening ceremony, when participants join hands to recognize the importance of standing together in support of these safe havens."
The 2026 primary beneficiary is Providence House of Catholic Charities in Ocean County, with additional proceeds benefiting organizations serving women and families in Monmouth County. Since its inception, Saturday in the Park has raised more than $250,000 while increasing awareness of resources available to women in need.
Originally held at Bodman Park in Middletown, the event later moved to Monmouth University, Brookdale Community College, and Holmdel Park before finding its current home at Thompson Park in Lincroft.
The event has long been supported by girls' high school and youth athletic teams. To encourage participation, team members may register for a discounted rate of $25 through August 15. Awards will be presented to the top three teams based on participation.
The committee will also award numerous random prizes donated by local businesses, along with age-group awards and the Mary Conry Memorial Award, presented annually to the first Jersey Shore Running Club member to finish the race.
Sponsorship opportunities and product donations are still available. Sponsors receive race-day signage, recognition on the event website, and the opportunity to host an informational table during the event. Participants may also support the charities by making a $15 donation during registration to receive a custom set of Saturday in the Park bib boards.
The Jersey Shore Running Club, New Jersey's largest running club with more than 1,500 members, is dedicated to promoting fitness while supporting local charitable organizations through community events and volunteer service.
For more information, to register, become a sponsor, or make a donation, visit www.saturdayinthepark5k.org or contact Marianne Ploskonka at (732) 684-6195 or marianne@saturdayinthepark5k.org, or Penny Hinck at (732) 233-3545 or penny@saturdayinthepark5k.org.