Ogunquit's Lobster Dash 5 miler on Ogunquit Beach

It can't be a bad day if you can run on Ogunquit beach

-Greg Gumbinner

Enjoying a pre-dawn September run. Photo courtesy of Rick Barber

Today was the 12th annual Lobster Dash 5 mile race on Ogunquit beach. This race is one of my favorites. I run this course virtually everyday for from April to October. I find it is a great way to start the day. Life is good here in Ogunquit Maine, especially if you greet the ocean everyday!

 

The hard packed sand is perfect for running. Clean air, ocean waves and beautiful vistas that are hard to beat.  It was a great way to welcome autumn.

This year's race was not my best time. But none the less, I always have a good time!

The race is in memory of Greg Gumbinner with proceeds going to various scholarships and charities.

Greg Gumbinner was a avid runner, and a lover of life. Greg passed away over 12 years ago, but his memory lives on through his countless friends that organize this annual event.

Photos courtesy of Sean McFadden

The race is five miles on the beach at low tide. Finishers receive a medal, lobster roll and a tech shirt which features a lobster. All for $25!

Lobster Dash 2010

"It can't be a bad day if you can run on Ogunquit Beach"

-Greg Gumbinner

Today I completed in the 10th annual Lobster Dash on Ogunquit Beach. This 5 mile race is in memory of Greg Gumbiner. Greg was an avid runner and enjoyed life. One of Greg's favorite sayings was "It can't be a bad day if you can run on Ogunquit Beach".

There were 211 participants. I came in 17th overall with a time of 35.30 at 7.06 minute per mile. Definitely not a PR for me, but a great race. The race is at low tide on the hard packed sand of Ogunquit beach. Generally speaking most people run a bit slower in sand than a traditional road or trail race. Runners were from all over New England, California, Florida and beyond.

The proceeds to the race benefit different charities and programs in Ogunquit. Ogunquit's Charlie Farrington and John Mixon make the race possible. The course is easy. Run north with the ocean on your right. Run to you can not run anymore, then run back with the ocean on your left. The 5 mile course is professionally timed and mapped. The fun part is running through the the tide pools!  The weather was perfect with bright sun, seasonal temperatures and a light head wind going north.

Ogunquit's Lobster Dash is a unique race in that participants receive a lobster roll upon completing the 5 mile run. Runners also receive a t-shirt, medal, and runners breakfast. Of course the best schwag is running on near perfect conditions on Ogunquit beach!

Lobser Roll, T-shirt, medal, breakfast, and a five mile timed race for $20 entry fee!