5K To Support U.S. Marines Charity Set For Seaside Park

SEASIDE PARK, NJ — For the third straight year, runners and spectators will hit the boardwalk in Seaside Park for the Semper Five Charity 5K.

The event raises funds for the MARSOC Foundation. The foundation assists U.S. Marine Corps Special Operations Command personnel who are injured or wounded in combat, contingency operations, or training, and assists families of Marines who have lost their lives in service to their country.

The first two years of the race have raised more than $60,000, race organizers said. The goal for the 2016 edition is to raise $45,000.

Last year, 90 active-duty Marines kicked off the race at the U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan; the Embassy is hosting the first leg of the race again this year, organizers said.

On Saturday, Sept. 17, the final leg of the race will be held in Seaside Park. The 3.1-mile course begins and ends at The Sawmill Restaurant.

Toms River Mayor Thomas H. Kelaher is expected to be on hand for the start of the race, which will kick off with 15 active duty Marines from Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst leading the way holding the race flag, organizers said.

Runners can sign up to participate; there is a $35 entry fee, which includes a long sleeve Under Armour t-shirt and a Marine Corps wrist band, organizers said. Registration begins at 7 a.m. A 1-mile fun run begins at 9 a.m., and the 5K run/walk begins at 9:30 a.m. Awards will be given out to the race winners.

The Sawmill is at 1807 N. Ocean Ave., Seaside Park.

Logo courtesy of Semper Five organizers