Sunday afternoon in downtown Toms River was buzzing with runners from across the state as the 26th Annual Toms River Police Jingle Bells 5K kicked off in true holiday fashion — with Santa himself leading the way.
The festivities began with the always-entertaining Kiddie Dash, where “Christmas Tree” Petra, along with President Harold and his trusty helper John, kept the young runners moving and smiling. Next up, 204 runners took off in the One Mile race, setting the stage for the main event.
Soon after, more than 560 eager runners lined up for the 5K. As the starting gun fired, jingle bells rang through town and festive outfits filled the course. Runners passed beautifully decorated homes while neighbors cheered them on, creating a truly joyful holiday atmosphere. Washington Street lit the way to the finish line with glowing holiday lights, adding an extra touch of seasonal magic.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the many Ocean Running Club members who volunteered their time to assist the Toms River Police with set-up, registration, and T-shirt distribution. Your dedication and support truly show that ORC is a valued asset to the community.
Happy Holidays!