The Martha's Vineyard Times

Martha's Vineyard offers runners plenty to run about

May 23, 2012

File photo by Ralph Stewart

The annual Memorial Day 5K happens the day before the holiday, Sunday, May 27. [More Photos]

Martha's Vineyard is best known for its beaches and beautiful scenary. It is increasingly known for a slate of races that give runners a chance to take in the Island and get fit in the process.

Whether you need to start training to walk a 5K or you're trying to beat your personal best, start training now for these fun, community road races that benefit a variety of worthy causes. Following is list of upcoming road races on the Vineyard.

Memorial Day 5K Race, Walk, and 1-mile Fun Run

11 am, Sunday, May 27, begins at Ocean Park, Oak Bluffs, ends at Wesley Hotel.

This annual race benefits Hospice of M.V. Fun run starts at 10:30 am. Pre-register on Saturday, May 26 at the Wesley Hotel in Oak Bluffs, from 3 to 6 pm for $15; day of race, from 9 to 10 am, is $20. Tee-shirt is guaranteed only with pre-registration. For more information, visit hospiceofmv.org or call 508-693-0189.

Murdick's Fudge 5 Mile Run the Chop

9 am, Wednesday, July 4, begins at the Tisbury School in Vineyard Haven.

Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Martha's Vineyard benefits from this annual event. $20 if registered by June 15; $25 after June 15; $5 fun run for children ages 12 and under. Visit runthechop.murdicks.com or call 888-553-8343 for more information.

Vineyard Scoops 5K Tour of Edgartown

8:45 am, Sunday, Aug. 5, The FARM Institute in Edgartown.

In this annual event, runners start at The FARM, continue along Katama Bay, and run back to The FARM. There is a one-half kilometer fun run for children with many awards. $20; $15 with pre-registration; $50 for a family of at most 5 (pre-registration only). Call 508-627-8303 or visit mvmultisport.com for registration and more information.

Chilmark Road Race

10:30 am, Saturday, Aug. 11, begins 3.1 miles east of Chilmark Town Hall on Middle Rd., Chilmark. Ends at Beetlebung Corner.

A sell-out crowd runs this race every year, so register early. Since 1978, the 5K race has been run through the hilly but beautiful Chilmark country. The race benefits the Town Affairs Council to assist the Chilmark Community Center. $25 to enter ($16 for children under 110. To register, visit chilmarkroadrace.org. For more information, call 508-645-9484.

Sullivan 5K Run and Walk

9 am, Saturday, Aug. 25, Washington Park in Oak Bluffs.

A benefit for the Martha's Vineyard Hospital, the Sullivan 5K is hosted by Dr. Louis W. Sullivan, former U.S. secretary of Health and Human Services, and his wife. The run goes along East Chop, with parts of the course boasting a great view of Nantucket Sound. $20; $15 pre-register; $5 for children's fun run. Call 508-693-4645 or visit mvhospital.com for more information.