Cape May Beachfront Run Draws Hundreds for Annual Race
The Cape May Beachfront Run, a popular local tradition, took place on Saturday, September 26, drawing hundreds of participants to the picturesque shores of Cape May. Celebrating its 26th year, the event featured both a two-mile and a five-mile race, both winding through the scenic Beach Avenue, with the starting and finishing lines located in front of the iconic Cape May Convention Hall.
The weather for the day was predominantly sunny, although a strong north wind made conditions challenging for the runners. Despite the brisk breeze, the event showcased impressive performances from both local athletes and visitors.
In the two-mile race, Karl Dusen, a 27-year-old from Rockville, Maryland, emerged as the top male competitor. Dusen completed the course in a remarkable 5:24, a pace that not only secured him first place but also set the tone for his subsequent performance in the five-mile race. Less than an hour later, Dusen once again took center stage, clinching the top spot in the five-mile run with a record-breaking time of 26:15. This impressive finish was a full minute faster than the previous record, underscoring Dusen’s exceptional endurance and speed.
In the male division of the five-mile run, Mike Leathers and Matthew McGaffney finished in second and third place, respectively. Their strong performances contributed to a competitive field, highlighting the high caliber of participants in this year’s race.
On the female side, Elimy Dusen, Karl’s 26-year-old sister and fellow Rockville resident, made her mark by winning the five-mile run with a record-breaking time of 31:01. Her performance was not only a personal triumph but also a significant achievement in the event’s history. Kimmy Leathers, a Cape May local and a member of the Coast Guard, secured second place, with Anne McCarthy finishing in third.
Kimmy Leathers also distinguished herself in the two-mile race, where she won the female category with a time of 7:14. Leathers’ victory was a testament to her impressive athleticism and local pride, as she represented Cape May with distinction.
The two-mile run featured a straightforward course that started and ended in front of Cape May Convention Hall, with a turnaround point just past Pittsburgh Avenue. This looped route allowed spectators to cheer on the runners from various vantage points along the course.
The five-mile run, which involved two laps along Beach Avenue, also began and concluded in front of Convention Hall. This extended course offered runners a chance to experience the full length of Cape May’s scenic beachfront, making it a visually stimulating and challenging race.
The Cape May Beachfront Run is more than just a competitive event; it is a celebration of community spirit and athleticism. The event draws participants from across the region and beyond, bringing together a diverse group of individuals united by their passion for running and their appreciation for Cape May’s natural beauty.
In addition to the races, the event fosters a sense of camaraderie among participants and spectators alike. The presence of local businesses and organizations further enhances the festive atmosphere, making the Cape May Beachfront Run a beloved fixture in the annual calendar.
As runners and spectators enjoyed the festivities, the day’s achievements and records became a part of the event’s rich history, ensuring that the Cape May Beachfront Run continues to be a memorable and inspiring occasion for years to come.
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