BARNEGAT, NJ- The Ocean County Foundation for Vocational and Technical Education, a nonprofit organization that supports the students at the Ocean County Vocational Technical School, hosted its first-ever ‘Turkey Dash’, a 5K and Fun Run/Walk this past Sunday, November 20th. The event took place on the beautiful scenic Barnegat Branch Trail in Waretown.

Our participants began their sunny, but blustery cold morning at The Waretown Firehouse. The use of the hall was generously donated to the Foundation by the Waretown Volunteer Fire Company. As the runners and walkers entered, they lined up for registration to collect their bib and number assignment and tee shirt pick up. They were greeted by tons of OCVTS volunteers, generous food and drink donations, a DJ from the Performing Arts Academy and lots of positive energy that filled the room.

The participants of all ages from 3 yrs.to 73 yrs. made their way down for the first event, the1 mile ‘Fun Run’, where they were cheered on by proud parents, friends of the community, volunteers, OCVTS staff and administration.

As the wind kicked up the next group took their mark for the next event, the 5K. At the starting line anxious participants were all eager to hear ‘Runners take your mark’ and then away they went. All 5K runners were officially timed by the Viper Timing Services, and then the winners with the best race times received their medals back at the Firehouse.

The Foundation was supported that day by many volunteers, community friends, participants, our OCVTS staff and students from all over Ocean County. Even more support came from many local business sponsors, which had their signs prominently displayed along the running trail.

The purpose of the 5k was to raise money and awareness of the ongoing hunger situation in Ocean County. Every year the culinary students and staff at the Ocean County Vocational Schools prepare close to 3000 meals for those in need during the Thanksgiving Holiday season.

The 2nd Annual ‘Turkey Dash’ will definitely be scheduled for next year.