The air may be chilly, but this is actually the perfect time of year for running. The air is crisp and the temperatures haven’t dropped too low (for the most part). We love lacing up our running shoes and heading out for a jog on a beautiful fall day, and with a number of 5K events on the Shore, there are more than a few reasons to get out there and hit the pavement. If you’re looking for a running event, OC Tri-Running has got you covered with two upcoming 5Ks; the Ravens VS Steelers 5K Beach Combine, the OCMD Winterfest of Lights Jingle Bell 5K. In Berlin, look forward to the upcoming 6th Annual Reindeer Run.

The longstanding rivalry between Ravens and Steelers fans on the Shore will come to a head November 23rd, at the 2nd Annual Ravens VS Steelers 5K Beach Combine Challenge. Hosted by Buxy’s Salty Dog Saloon and the 28th Street Pit and Pub, its black and purple vs. black and gold at its finest. The 5K race will start on the boardwalk at 27th Street at 9am. Runners choose which team they are running for and the racing ensues. The top 25 time scores for each team will be added and the fastest time wins the trophy for their pub and (more importantly) bragging rights for the 2013-2014 football season. Last year’s race victory went to the Ravens, which means the trophy is currently housed at the Pit and Pub. Only time will tell who will take the prize this year.

The race fees are $35 until November 20th and $40 on race day. Race fee includes the 5K race, event runners’ style tech shirt, race finishers ribbon, one drink ticket redeemable at either pub and the football combine. The Beach Football Combine consists of a series of athletic agility and strength drills designed to test your football skills. The drills will take place on the beach at 27th Street and is open to all ages and genders. Drill stations include the following:

  • Speed and Agility: This is a small, timed obstacle course consisting of a bear crawl, tire flip, speed cones, and seated tire pull with a sprint finish.
  • 40-Yard Dash: A timed 40-yard sprint down the beach.
  • Quarterback Accuracy Test: Three attempts to throw a NFL size football through a tire at 10-yds away.
  • The Bomb: A measured bomb throw with a NFL official size football.

The Combine is for all to enjoy. 5K runners can participate free of charge, all others will pay a $5 entry fee. Spectators are welcome!

The Winterfest of Lights Jingle Bell 5K is a chance to run through Ocean City’s Winterfest of Lights, located at Northside Park at 125th Street bayside. The race starts at 5pm, December 8, so dress warmly and be prepared to be dazzled by this year’s holiday display. The race is $23 for ages 12 and under and $28 for 13 and up. Race fees will increase to $30 after December 3rd, and $35 on race day, so register early. Online registration is available at the OC Tri-Running website.

Beyond racing, enjoy hot cocoa, cookies and a ride on the Winterfest Express after the race is over. Awards will also be given to top male and female in various age brackets. Awards ceremony and post-race fun will be held at The Abbey Burger Bistro, located on 126th Street. Hot chocolate and cookies will be provided for everyone, along with one drink ticket for adults 21 and up. As always, holiday cheer and garb are welcome and encouraged.

The 6th Annual Reindeer Run, held each year in Historic Downtown Berlin, is a festive event full of costumes, holiday cheer, and of course running. This race has quickly become a local’s favorite, with over 200 runners expected for this year’s race day on December 7. The event is family friendly, with activities including food, drinks, a bake sale, visits with Santa and carriage rides. Fundraising has also been set up for Worcester Youth and Family. The 5K begins at 9am, with the 1-mile fun run commencing at 10am. What’s more, there is a Reindeer Run Team Challenge. Get as many friends as you can to register and the team with the most registrations wins the prize package. For more information on how to enter your team, contact Lisa Long at bodybylisa@live.com.

For more information on either event, or on other upcoming races, visit octrirunning.com.