Mad 5k
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MAD 5K at Ocean Beach Park
The fourth annual MAD 5K is a Military Appreciation Day 3.1 mile running event held at Ocean Beach Park in New London, Connecticut on August 15, 2026. The course runs along the water and is described as relatively flat.
The event includes participant recognition and awards. The first 100 participants to finish receive a participation medal. First place medals are awarded to male and female runners in each age group. Free parking is available at Ocean Beach Park.
Registration information is provided for the general field. General registration carries a fee of $35. Registration opens March 1, 2026 and closes August 14, 2026. Special pricing is offered for veterans and active-duty military; active-duty military, veterans, and their family members may be admitted free with Military ID or DD214.
Proceeds support a military relief organization. One hundred percent of net proceeds are designated for the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society. The event also features a boardwalk area with local vendors and military booths, and the day ends with a ceremony on the boardwalk stage that honors active-duty service members and recognizes Connecticut veterans receiving the CT War-Time Medal.
Ocean Beach Park is noted in event information as having been named one of the top 25 parks in the country by Travel and Leisure. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
