Splish-splash, these Sharks are making a dash

BAY HEAD — The drippy and dreary weather was perfect for sharks of all shapes and sizes, as the annual Shark Run 5K and Color Fun Run took to the streets of Bay Head.

On Saturday, Sept. 28, members of the community and beyond raced throughout the borough in the 5K sponsored by the Bay Head Home & School Association (HSA). The HSA helps provide extracurricular activities, enhancements for the classroom, curriculum and school grounds as well as clubs, sports equipment, class trips and after school programs for all grades at Bay Head Elementary School.

Jenny Kelber, vice president of the HSA and the co-chair of the Shark Run 5K and Shark Color Fun Run, told The Ocean Star, “The Shark Run is a 5K that takes runners through Bay Head that is in its 17th year. The Shark Color Fun Run is a one-mile fun run that kids have been enjoying, following the 5K for the past five years.” Kelber chairs this run with Andrea Caruso, where Kelber handles the Shark Run 5K, while Caruso handles the color run.

“The Shark Run is one of our largest fundraisers of the year. It is a great morning for families from school and the avid runners who come back every year to take part in the Shark Run 5K. The kids also enjoy the fun run and getting covered in colors while running the course,” said Kelber.

“We had a good amount of runners. Most showed up despite the weather and the rain,” said Kelber.

She further said, “Not only does it bring in runners from the surrounding areas, but it is a great way for parents and students alike to run the races and donate their time to work together to ensure the run is successful, safe and fun for all. From check in to traffic coordinators and water station attendants, everyone has a hand in making it a great morning for all.”

Runners from all around Bay Head and surrounding area came out on the wet day, such as Brian Gianfort, of Tinton Falls. Coming in 45th place, he said, “It was awesome, conditions could have been a bit better but it is just fun to get out on the course.”

Another runner, Robert Michalik, from Brick, told The Ocean Star, “It was a fantastic race. I kind of like this weather, so it was good for me.” He finished 25th overall in the race.

However, despite racers’ best efforts, only one could emerge on top. This was Tim Murphy, of Brielle. He said, “I’ve spent some time living here in Bay Head, so I was actually familiar with the streets. It felt nice being back and one with the elements with all the rain and the wind. It felt good.”

He added, “People are able to reconnect at these events. I just saw an old friend and caught up a bit. But also this is for the kids and a great way to give back to the community.”

“We are so appreciative of the continued support of local businesses and the companies that sponsor the races year after year. Our Diamond sponsor, The Hesse Companies and Platinum sponsor, Charlie’s of Bay Head have been sponsoring The Shark Run 5K for many years.” said Kelber. “The day would also not be possible if not for the Bay Head Firehouse, the Bay Head and Mantoloking Police, the Point Pleasant EMS, the timing services of Split Second Racing, Nature’s Reward, Miles Ahead and the always entertaining MC Bob Scott of The Game Show Night and music by DJ Trish.”

“This is our biggest fundraiser of the year and it is really good for the community because there are a lot of businesses that take part in the day, which we are really grateful for,” said Kelber. “They come back every year, and we have some newcomers this year which is really great. We also have a lot of families get involved, from people from town to others from as far as Pennsylvania.”

This is an excerpt of the print article. For more on this story, read The Ocean Star —on newsstands Friday or online in our e-Edition.

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