Race to the Finish: Highlights from the 48th Annual Belmar 5 Mile Run

BELMAR, NJ – The 48th Annual Belmar Five Mile Run, known to many as the "Belmar 5," is a historic and popular road race held annually in Belmar. Traditionally held in July, the event has shifted to later in the summer, continuing its legacy as one of the most anticipated summer road races at the Jersey Shore, drawing participants from all over the region.

First held in 1977, the Belmar 5 is one of the oldest road races in New Jersey. It was originally organized to promote health and fitness in the community and to bring people together for a fun and competitive summer event. From its inception, the race has attracted runners of all ages and abilities, from serious competitors to those enjoying a leisurely run by the beach.

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In addition to the main 5-mile race, the event includes a variety of activities, such as kids' races on Friday night, fitness walks, and post-race celebrations. These activities create a festive environment that appeals to both runners and non-runners alike. Jersey Shore Running Club Board Member and Belmar Race Director Dan "Danny" Napolitan, who began overseeing the event in 2019, shared his thoughts: "We moved the race back this year to complement and close out the year of the many races we oversee at the shore. We raised money primarily for the Belmar Goodwill Hose Co. and a few charitable organizations. This event will likely generate between $15,000 and $35,000. My philosophy is that if you want to feel good, you do good, and this is what our club does. I'm thankful for the 200 volunteers that support these races along the shore."

This year's Belmar 5 winner was Alex Carideo , 26, of Morrisville, PA, with a time of 25:37. Sean Donohue, 33, of Middletown, NJ, finished second at 25:50, followed by Brian Quilty, 34, of Pitman, NJ, in third with a time of 26:12. Rounding out the top five were Brett Milden, 28, of Mullica Hill, NJ (26:31), and Kyle Navalance, 26, of Toms River, NJ (26:32).

Local runners in the top 100 included Jack Tarpey (30:53, 40th), Tommy Webster (32:23, 60th), and Jack Gramlich (33:46, 96th) of Belmar; Griffin Casey (31:32, 46th) and Kyle Breuche (32:17, 58th) of Manasquan; and Kieran Tonero (32:51, 72nd) of Spring Lake.

On the women's side, Erica Fluehr, 31, of Atlantic Highlands, finished first (17th overall) with a time of 28:21. Fluehr also won the 2023 Belmar race with a time of 28:00. Lilly Flynn finished second (18th overall) with a time of 28:48, followed by her twin sister Sarah Flynn in third (19th overall) with a time of 28:56, both from Lavalette. Brianna Humphreys from Brick finished fourth (29:23, 23rd overall), and Gianna Tedeschi from Skillman, NJ, came in fifth (30:34, 33rd overall).

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Over the decades, the Belmar 5 has grown significantly in size and reputation. It has become a summer tradition not just for locals, but for runners across the Northeast who return year after year to participate. The race is known for its friendly atmosphere, well-organized logistics, and enthusiastic community support. The Belmar 5 has seen many impressive performances, and based on available information, the fastest run in recent times was by Jake Shoemaker with a time of 25:15.

This year’s event drew approximately 3,000 runners. The largest turnout occurred in 2012, with over 3,500 participants, reflecting the event's enduring popularity and status as a premier summer road race in New Jersey.

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