University of Dayton Humanities Plaza, Dayton OH
Saturday, September 12th, 2026
Event Overview
HOPE…It’s a Beach Thing is a 5K Walk/Run held in memory of Tim Beach, who passed away from a glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) brain tumor in 2012, at age 53.
About Tim Beach
- Initial Prognosis: After his initial surgery, Tim was given three to six months to live, possibly a year with treatment.
- Survival: Through clinical trials and with the help of knowledgeable physicians, Tim outlived his prognosis, surviving 21 months.
- Quality of Life: Most of these months, he lived with a high quality of life, enjoying major life events.
- Family Moments: These events included his daughter’s engagement, son’s wedding, and blessing for a marriage proposal.
Event Impact
- Inspiration: HOPE…It’s a Beach Thing was inspired by Tim’s passion for running and his love of the University of Dayton.
- Fundraising: Over the past fourteen years, the event has raised $809,000 in net profit for brain tumor research.
- Research Support: Funds have supported research led by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute's Dr. David Reardon.
- Last Year’s Success: In our 14th event, more than 315 participants helped us raise a historic high of $77,000!
Join Us
Tim’s family and friends HOPE that through brain tumor research, we will find a cure. Please join us in our fundraising effort again this year!
Event Details
- Date: September 12, 2026
- Location: University of Dayton Humanities Plaza, Dayton, OH
- URL: HOPE…It’s a Beach Thing 5K Walk/Run
Race-day essentials
Light, simple picks for a fast effort.
Top pick
SHOKZ OpenRun Bone Conduction Open-Ear Bluetooth Sport Headphones, Running Workout Bundle with Waterproof Carrying Case & Sweat Headband, IP67 Sweat Resistant, 8H Playtime, Mic, Black
$129.95
Garmin Forerunner 55, GPS Running Watch with Daily Suggested Workouts, Up to 2 Weeks of Battery Life, Black - 010-02562-00
$164.99
goodr A Unicorn's Calamity Polarized Sunglasses, Medium Sized (OG), Black Solid Frames with Black Non-Reflective Glare Reducing Lenses, UV400 Protection, No Slip, No Bounce
$30.00
Nathan Peak Running Hydration Waist Pack Belt w/Speed Draw Flask Water Bottle, 18oz/535 ml Push/Pull Race Cap, Expandable Zippered Stretch Pocket
$44.00
Course Map
Train for this race
Find a local run club
Run clubs in Dayton, OH host weekly group runs — a great way to prep for race day.
