Family charity 5Ks are the gateway drug of running — a distance anyone can cover, a cause worth the alarm clock, and a boardwalk course that makes the miles feel like a beach walk with numbers pinned on. Catch A Cure's October morning catches Rockaway at its quiet, golden best. Bring the kids, the stroller and the dog-who-thinks-he's-running-it; the point is showing up together.
What to expect
A relaxed morning start, an out-and-back boardwalk 5K walked and jogged in family clusters, and a finish-line scene with refreshments and cause programming. Everything wraps by midday.
Good to know
- The boardwalk start area is announced with registration — Rockaway's A shuttle and ferry both serve it
- Register with the organizers; charity walks usually welcome day-of entries
- Flat, stroller-friendly course the whole way
- October beach mornings are brisk — layers for the start
- Make a day of it: the beach is gorgeous and empty in fall
Going? Keep it.
Common questions
Is this a serious race?
No — it's a family fundraiser first; timed runners are welcome but most of the field walks.
Are strollers and dogs OK?
Strollers almost always; leashed dogs usually — confirm with the organizer's event page.
