Ocean Beach Park, New London CT
Saturday, August 15th, 2026
Register now for the Military Appreciation Day 5K!
Join the 4th Annual MAD 5K - An Epic Race for a Great Cause!
Get ready for an incredible running experience that combines breathtaking scenery, community spirit, and meaningful support for our military heroes! Our scenic route offers stunning water views and a relatively flat course that will challenge and inspire runners of all levels.
Race Day Highlights:
- First 100 Participants: Receive an exclusive participation medal as you cross the finish line!
- Awards: First place medals for male and female runners in every age group.
- Special Discounts: Veteran and active-duty military personnel enjoy exclusive pricing.
Race Details:
- Start Time: 9:00 am.
- Parking: Free parking at Ocean Beach Park.
- Recommended Arrival: 30-60 minutes before start time.
100% of net proceeds directly support the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) - Run with purpose, run with pride!
Event Experience:
Join us for an extraordinary Military Appreciation Day at Ocean Beach Park! Not just a 5K race, but a full day of celebration honoring our military heroes.
Active-duty military, Veterans, and their family members are invited to enjoy this incredible event FREE OF CHARGE (Military ID or DD214 required at entry).
After conquering the Military Appreciation Day 5K, immerse yourself in a day of excitement! Explore our vibrant boardwalk filled with local vendors passionately supporting our military community. Explore the military booths for those stories of dedication and pride!
Visit our website for more information.
Ceremony and Recognition:
The day concludes in a moving ceremony at 3:00 pm on the boardwalk stage, where we'll honor active-duty service members with special action awards and recognize Connecticut Veterans who will receive the CT War-Time Medal.
Don't miss this incredible opportunity to celebrate our military heroes at Ocean Beach Park – recently named one of the top 25 parks in the country by Travel and Leisure!
Race Registration:
For more information and to register, visit the official race page: MAD 5K Race Registration.
Race-day essentials
Light, simple picks for a fast effort.
Top pick
Adidas Men's Lite Racer Adapt 7.0, Black/Grey/Grey, 10
$44.95
Lapulas Athletic Ankle Socks, Low Cut Cushioned Anti-Blister Running Tab Sports Socks for Men and Women 6Pairs (White, L)
$14.99
![Lamicall Polarized Sports Sunglasses for Men Women, [24g Ultralight] [Adjustable Nose Pad] UV400 Protection Sun Glasses for Cycling Running Baseball Fishing Golf Beach Volleyball Driving](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/314zYavx-2L._SL160_.jpg)
Lamicall Polarized Sports Sunglasses for Men Women, [24g Ultralight] [Adjustable Nose Pad] UV400 Protection Sun Glasses for Cycling Running Baseball Fishing Golf Beach Volleyball Driving
$21.99
Fitgriff® Running Belt for Men & Women - Secure Jogging Pouch for Phone, Keys & Essentials - For All Cell Phones (Black, 24.5" - 35.5" Waist Size)
$15.95
GADIEMKENSD Quick Drying Running Hat Summer Cooling Baseball Cap UPF50+ Sports Sun Caps Breathable Mesh Lightweigh Dad Hats Unstructured for Golf Workout Hiking Gym Travel Camp Pink S/M 6 7/8-7 1/4
$13.99
Course Map
Train for this race
Find a local run club
Run clubs in New London, CT host weekly group runs — a great way to prep for race day.
