Lace up your running shoes and prepare for a scenic coastal adventure at the Niantic Bay Boardwalk 5K Run/Walk! Set for Saturday, April 19th, this community event invites participants of all ages to celebrate the sea while supporting a worthy cause. Starting at McCook Point Park in Niantic, CT, runners and walkers will wind their way through the village, along Main Street, and finish with views of the Niantic Bay Boardwalk and Hole-in-the-Wall Beach. You’re welcome whether you’re a competitive runner or simply looking for a fun way to spend a spring morning, this event promises something for everyone.
Registration is now open at just $30 for adults and $25 for participants 18 and under. The event features a sea-themed costume contest, adding a playful twist to the traditional 5K format with prizes for best adult, child, and group costumes. Participants are encouraged to dress as a mermaid, sea monster, or favorite ocean creature for a chance to win. To secure your commemorative event T-shirt, be sure to register by March 21st. This event combines fitness, fun, and community spirit while raising funds for downtown revitalization efforts in Niantic.
- The route of the Niantic Bay Boardwalk 5K, showcasing the scenic journey from McCook Point Park to Hole-in-the-Wall Beach. Source: eltownhall.com
Race day promises to be well-organized with registration and bib pickup available from 8:30 to 9:45 am at McCook Point Park, followed by a 10:00 am race start. For those who prefer to get their materials early, there’s also bib pickup available the evening before (Friday, April 18th) from 5-7 pm at the same location. The award ceremony is scheduled for 11:00 am, where participants can celebrate their achievements and possibly take home a prize. The mostly flat course is ideal for runners and walkers of all experience levels, making this 5K accessible to community members across all fitness backgrounds.
Participants should arrive ready for a scenic journey through some of Niantic’s most interesting areas. Beginning at McCook Point Park, the route travels through the Crescent Beach neighborhood before winding down Main Street to Cini Memorial Park. The final 1.1 miles treat participants to views of the Niantic Bay Boardwalk before concluding at Hole-in-the-Wall Beach. Post-race activities at the McCook Point Park pavilion provide the perfect opportunity to relax and socialize with fellow participants while taking in the waterfront setting.
- Proud sponsors of the Niantic Bay Boardwalk 5K – supporting both runners and community revitalization. Source: eltownhall.com
The race utilizes professional chip timing by SNERRO, ensuring accurate results for all participants. Awards will be presented to the top three female and male finishers overall, as well as to the top male and female runners in various age categories: 18 and under, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, and 80+. This awards structure ensures recognition for outstanding performances across all demographics, encouraging participants of every age to give their best effort.
Behind this community event are East Lyme Parks and Recreation and Niantic Main Street, the non-profit organization dedicated to creating community experiences for residents and visitors. All proceeds from the Niantic Bay Boardwalk 5K will support downtown revitalization efforts by Niantic Main Street, making your participation not just a personal achievement but a contribution to the continued improvement of this Connecticut coastal community. Located at 159 Main Street and reachable at (860) 739-2550, Niantic Main Street continues to foster community connection through events like this sea-themed celebration.
