RWJBarnabas Health and the New Jersey Devils are teaming up for the 7th annual RWJBarnabas Health Running with the Devils 5K Run & Walk while offering both live and virtual formats in 2023.
The live 5K Run & Wellness Walk will take place on Sunday, Oct. 29, at Essex County’s South Mountain Recreation Complex in West Orange. The virtual format offers an extended opportunity to run or walk at a convenient location within participants’ communities from Oct. 1–29.
This year, both the competitive 5K race on a USATF Certified Course and the Wellness Walk will take place along Cherry Lane and the scenic reservoir at South Mountain Recreation Complex.
All proceeds from the event will support RWJBarnabas Health’s efforts to protect and build healthier communities throughout New Jersey.
On race day, New Jersey Devils alumni will be joined by popular mascot NJ, along with several mascots from New Jersey-based universities and professional teams, to cheer on the participants.
All registered runners and walkers receive FREE entry to Essex County’s award-winning Turtle Back Zoo on event day, with a line-up of family-friendly activities planned at the zoo post-race.
For individuals and families not available to participate in the live event, the virtual format offers the option to run or walk around a neighborhood, at a local park, or even on a treadmill from Oct. 1–29 using the RunGo App. Virtual runners and walkers will hear custom audio messages of support and encouragement from New Jersey Devils players and RWJBarnabas Health patients via the RunGo App. Virtual participants will receive FREE access to Turtle Back Zoo between Oct. 30 and Dec. 31.
Exciting fundraising incentives are being offered for individuals and teams based on benchmarks of $100, $250, $500, $1000 and $2,500, highlighted by tickets to New Jersey Devils games, signed New Jersey Devils merchandise, and the opportunity to engage with the alumni, among others. Awards will be presented to the top three finishers and in multiple age categories (Live & Virtual).
Registration for the Live Run ($30), Live Walk ($25) and Virtual ($25) is NOW Open, with these discounted rates available through August 31. Children 11 and under are FREE. For more information on the event, or to register for the RWJBarnabas Health Running with the Devils 5K Run & Walk, please visit rwjbh.org/runningwiththedevils.