53nd Annual Long Beach Island Commemorative
18 Mile Run
12K Run Fundraiser
2025 Race Registration is Now Open!
About the 18 Mile Run
Join us for the annual 18 Mile Run & 12K Fundraiser at St. Francis Community Center! This highly anticipated event is perfect for competitive runners, fitness enthusiasts, and those looking to challenge themselves while supporting a great cause. With scenic coastal views and a well-supported race course, this event promises an unforgettable experience for all participants. Whether you're gearing up for a marathon or testing your endurance at a new distance, we invite you to take part in this exciting race day!
About the 18 Mile Run
The 18 Mile Run is a premier event ideal for runners preparing for fall marathons or seeking a long-distance challenge. The race kicks off between Roosevelt and Pershing Avenue in Holgate and stretches all the way to Barnegat Lighthouse Park, offering breathtaking ocean views along the way. With multiple water stations, course supervision, and a well-marked route, this race is both challenging and rewarding for participants of all levels.
About the 12K Run/Walk
Looking to take part in the 18 Mile Run weekend but not quite ready for the full 18 miles? The 12K (approximately 7.5 miles) is the perfect alternative! Starting from the same location, the 12K race leads runners to the St. Francis Community Center finish line. Whether you're a runner looking to step up from a 5K or a walker seeking a well-supported fitness event, this race is for you. Enjoy water stations, race course supervision, and an enthusiastic crowd cheering you on to the finish!
Registration & Pricing
Sign up today to secure your spot in the race! Registration includes a race T-shirt, commemorative medal, and a to-go food & refreshment bag.
18 Mile Run: $
18 Mile Run (USATF-NJ Members): $
12K Run/Walk: $
Sponsorship Opportunities
Be part of one of Long Beach Island’s most exciting annual events by becoming a sponsor of the 18 Mile Run & 12K Fundraiser! Your support helps us continue this historic tradition while also providing valuable exposure for your business or organization.
Join Us for an
Amazing Race Day!
Don't miss out on this fantastic long-distance race weekend at St. Francis Community Center! Whether you're running the 18 Mile, taking on the 12K, or coming to cheer on participants, it's sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Register today and be part of the 18 Mile Run & 12K Fundraiser! See you at the starting line!
History of the Run
In 1972, Bill Fitzpatrick, a Long Beach Island resident and Rutgers University track man, wanted to organize a race from one end of Long Beach Island to the other, just for fun.
That same year, 11 Israeli athletes were murdered by terrorists at the Munich Olympics. It was then decided to make this race a commemorative event, honoring the memory of the slain athletes. The winner of the first race, with a time of 1:37:00, was Moses Mayfield of the Penn Athletic Club.
Later, in remembrance of the events that occurred in the U.S. on September 11, 2001, the race was additionally dedicated to the victims and heroes of that day. Three mile markers were added bearing the names of LBI residents who lost their lives that day.
To this day, we continue to commemorate both events annually. The vision of one man and the dedication of many continue to bring people together in this historic community event.
Thank you to all the runners, supporters, volunteers, emergency personnel, and everyone who works so hard to make this event a success!
Important Race Information
Race Packet Pick-Up
Location: St. Francis Community Center, 4700 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach Township, NJ
Saturday, October 11th: 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Sunday, October 12th: 6:30 AM - 8:30 AM
What’s Included in Your Race Packet?
Official bib number with corresponding chip
4 safety pins
Runner’s bag for personal items
Tag for clothing drop-off/pick-up
Race shirt (designated size)
Runner Check-In & Important Information
Runner check-in takes place in the St. Francis Community Center senior lunchroom on:
Saturday: 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Sunday: 6:30 AM - 8:30 AM
Medical Alert Information: Please fill out the back of your bib with any important medical details.
Bag Drop-Off:
12K runners must drop their bags at the Community Center before the race.
18 Mile runners can check their bags at the start line (bags will be numbered and transported to the finish).
The Community Center is not responsible for lost valuables.
Shower facilities are available post-race (BYOT - Bring Your Own Towel!).
Race Day Schedule
Buses for registered runners start: 7:30 AM
Last bus departs: 9:30 AM
18 Mile Run starts: 10:00 AM
12K Run/Walk starts: 10:00 AM
12K Finish Line closes: 1:00 PM
18 Mile Finish Line closes: 2:15 PM
For official race times & results, visit www.compuscore.com after 6:00 PM on race day.
Check out race day photos on our Facebook page.
Course Details
18 Mile Run: Starts at 10:00 AM at Roosevelt & Pershing Avenue, Holgate → Finishes at Barnegat Lighthouse Park.
12K Run/Walk: Starts at 10:00 AM at Roosevelt & Pershing Avenue, Holgate → Finishes at 48th St. across from St. Francis Community Center.
Water stations and restrooms are available along the course (full details available via QR Code on race materials).
Transportation & Logistics
Shuttle buses begin running at 7:30 AM to transport runners from St. Francis Community Center to the start line in Holgate.
There is no last bus—do not wait until the last minute!
Runners are encouraged to head to the start line as soon as they have their packets.
Water and restrooms will be available at the starting area.
Shuttle buses from the finish line to the Community Center will run periodically starting at 1:30 PM.
Private transportation is encouraged.
