Bayport Surf Santa 5 Miler Makes Waves With 4,000 Santas Taking Over Virginia Beach Oceanfront
December 16, 2024
December 15, 2024 – VIRGINIA BEACH, VIRGINIA /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – The 2024 BayPort Surf Santa 5 Miler presented by Bon Secours, held on December 14th, proved to be a sensational success as 4,134 participants took to the streets of Virginia Beach dressed as Santa Claus. The event surpassed expectations as it sold out weeks in advance, solidifying its status as a must-attend holiday tradition.
The race, which was recently named one of the Top 10 Best Fun Runs by USA Today, gathered participants of all ages and abilities decked out in Santa suits, spreading festive cheer as they navigated the scenic course along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk through the bright Holiday Lights at the Beach.
“We are thrilled with the overwhelming response to this year’s BayPort Surf Santa 5 Miler,” said Race Director, Amy Frostick. “It’s incredible to see so many community members come together to celebrate the holiday season in such a fun and active way. The sight of thousands of Santas running along the beach was truly magical.”
In addition to the spirited runners, the course also featured cheer groups, gingerbread cookies, peppermint taffy, and even snow as they crossed the finish line. After the race, participants kept the Christmas spirit alive with a post-race celebration which included cold beer, hot soup, music and plenty of high fives.
On Friday, over 250 children took part in the Rudolph 1K. The kids’ event has become more and more popular each year with increased participation. Kids were given their own finisher medal and a light up red Rudolph nose.
The BayPort Surf Santa 5 Miler has become a holiday tradition in Virginia Beach, attracting runners from near and far to join in the festive fun. With the 2024 event a resounding success, J&A Racing is looking forward to next year’s race which will open registration in July 2025.
Winners:
5 Miler:
Male: Chris Free, 39, Virginia Beach, VA; Finish Time 27:20
Female: Emily Honeycutt, 33, Newport News, VA: Finish Time 31:10
ATTACHMENT:IMAGES
Photo Credit: J&A Racing.
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About J&A Racing
J&A Racing is a nationally recognized race management company based in Virginia Beach, Virginia. With a portfolio of 9 events, J&A Racing’s mission is to promote and support healthy lifestyles and the sport of running through all stages of life. Since 2003 when J&A Racing owners, Amy and Jerry Frostick, took over the Shamrock Sportsfest, the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend has become one of the most popular running events in the country growing from 3,000 participants to a record 30,000 in 2015. Additionally, J&A Racing organizes the ADP Corporate 5K; the Getem Services Big Blue 5K; Chartway Virginia Beach 10 Miler and 5K; Crawlin’ Crab Half Marathon & 5K; Old Point National Bank Wicked 10K; the Chartway Norfolk Harbor Half Marathon, 10K & 5K; the BayPort Credit Union Surf-N-Santa 5 Miler; and the Sun Up to Sun Down 50K. For more information on J&A Racing’s events, visit jandaracing.com.
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MEDIA ALERT
Media Contact: James Bryan
Director of Marketing and Communications
J&A Racing
757-650-9925