New Oceanfront race steps in where Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon left off in Virginia Beach

Stacy Parker, The Virginian-Pilot
·2 min read
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VIRGINIA BEACH — When the Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon pulled out of Virginia Beach in 2021 after 20 years, it left a void Labor Day weekend at the Oceanfront.

Local running event gurus Jerry and Amy Frostick saw it as an opportunity for a new tradition celebrating the end of summer with a “hometown feel.”

The Frostick’s company, J&A Racing, is behind several long-standing Oceanfront events including the Shamrock Marathon, the Wicked 10k and the Surf-n-Santa 5 Miler, among others in Hampton Roads.

Their new event, the inaugural Virginia Beach 10 Miler & 5k, is expected to draw about 5,000 runners on Sept. 2 and 3. The course will wind around resort area landmarks including the Ferris wheel on Atlantic Avenue, the King Neptune statue on the Boardwalk, Rudee Inlet, and the Virginia Aquarium. The finish line will be near 15th Street fishing pier. A beach party afterwards will feature local bands.

“We’re doing it more J&A-style than Rock ‘n’ Roll-style,” said Jerry Frostick. “We’re a Virginia Beach company that loves Virginia Beach.”

Along the way, runners will be encouraged by dance team performances, popsicles, ice towels, and maybe even an Elvis sighting.

Chartway Federal Credit Union is the title sponsor, and $1 from each entry fee will support its charitable arm, Chartway Promise Foundation. The Virginia Beach-based nonprofit partners with local groups to provide memorable experiences for children facing medical challenges.

September is pediatric cancer awareness month, and the foundation will surprise two local affected families by granting wishes at the beach party.

The 5k will be held Sept. 2, and the 10-miler will be Sept. 3. Entry fees are $50 and $90 respectively.

Each night during Labor Day weekend, Beachevents, the city’s entertainment contracting company, will host free concerts in the Oceanfront parks, which J&A Racing is promoting as part of the 10-miler experience.

“It’s going to be a very happening weekend where a lot of positive energy is back at the beach,” Jerry Frostick said.

For more information or to register, visit virginiabeach10miler.com.

Stacy Parker, 757-222-5125, stacy.parker@pilotonline.com