The 2025 ORC Summer Series was scheduled to kick off just two days after our wildly successful Pine Beach 5K—but Mother Nature had other plans. With soaring temperatures and dangerous heat indexes, we made the tough call to cancel the first two weeks for the safety of our runners and volunteers.
But on Tuesday, July 15th, we were finally back in action. Despite the warm evening, Winding River Park came alive with the buzz of eager runners. Over 30 participants showed up, ready to shake off the heat and get back to racing. The kids kicked things off, tackling the ½ mile and mile distances with enthusiasm and smiles. Then it was the adults’ turn to take on the 5K course winding through the park.
Allison and Steve were on finish line duty, calling out clock times, while Nichole handed out place cards with a smile. Every finisher was rewarded with a medal, refreshing watermelon, and a sweet treat from Miss Mindy’s Ice Cream Cart—a well-earned reward on a hot summer night!
The second and final run of the series took place on July 22nd, and what a difference a week makes. The weather was nearly perfect—clear skies, low humidity, and a cool breeze in the air. Spirits were high as the kids followed Petra on the lead bike, turning back at the halfway point with Ellen cheering them on. The adults followed soon after, with over 30 runners taking on the 3.1-mile route led by Ron Savio.
After the run, participants enjoyed chilled watermelon and hot pizza while we handed out awards and celebrated another fantastic night of summer racing.
Once again, the Ocean Running Club showed how teamwork and community spirit can turn a simple weekday evening into something truly special. Huge thanks to all the volunteers, runners, and families who came out to make the 2025 Summer Series a success. Here’s to keeping the summer running tradition alive—see you next year!