As the sun dawned on what turned out to be the most picture-perfect weather day we’ve ever had, the Seaside Semper Five celebrated its milestone 10th Anniversary. Thousands of runners, from seasoned athletes to spirited newcomers, took to the Seaside Heights Boardwalk, each step echoing a decade of unwavering dedication. The energy was palpable, and the sheer turnout was a testament to the event’s profound impact over the years. This year’s race was more than just a commemoration; it was a vivid reflection of a community united by purpose, passion, and an undying spirit of honoring our heroes.
Over the years, the event has grown, not just in numbers but in heart. From the determined footsteps on the Seaside Heights Boardwalk to the echo of those steps in U.S. Embassies like Afghanistan, Iraq, Rwanda, and Cambodia, the Seaside Semper Five’s reach has truly become global. These expansions are not merely about distance covered or numbers amassed; they are a reflection of people supporting an ideal. The event has created ripples of impact across the globe, drawing over 35,000 runners worldwide. And the impressive $400,000 raised for the Marine Raider Foundation underscores a deeper narrative: a collective commitment to honoring and supporting our military heroes. The Seaside Semper Five isn’t just a race; it’s a global movement grounded in gratitude and unity.
For me, what makes the Seaside Semper Five so special is the heart behind it. People like Dr. Frank Costello, the race director, whose unwavering dedication has been the backbone of this remarkable event. Over the past decade, Dr. Costello’s commitment has never wavered, and his passion has been infectious. From the meticulous planning stages to the actual race day, his vision and hard work have transformed the Seaside Semper Five from a budding local run to one of New Jersey’s most anticipated annual events. The exponential growth and success of this race are a direct testament to Dr. Costello’s relentless drive and belief in the cause it supports.
Coyne PR’s journey with the Seaside Semper Five began 10 years ago when we committed to helping Dr. Costello create a race that would benefit the Marine Raider Foundation – and we jumped in with both feet. The agency played an integral role in shaping the event’s identity and outreach. We helped to name and brand the event, designed the logo, developed award-winning advertising campaigns and conducted media outreach to elevate the event’s visibility. Coyne PR also manages the event’s social media channels, creating compelling content that keeps the spirit of the Seaside Semper Five alive throughout the year. And, in a testament to how deeply ingrained the event has become in our agency’s culture, dozens of Coyne PR employees proudly lace up their shoes every year to participate in the race.
The event, which stands not only as a race but as a tribute to our brave military heroes, epitomizes the very essence of the Marines and Sailors it seeks to honor. Even when faced with an unthinkable act of terrorism in 2016, the spirit of the event didn’t waver. Instead, it came back stronger, more unified, and more determined.
As we reflect on the 10th Anniversary of the Seaside Semper Five, I invite you all to be part of this magnificent journey. Whether you’re there to run, walk, cheer, or volunteer, know that you’re part of something much bigger. You’re part of a legacy, a tribute, and a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to those who’ve given everything for our freedom. Here’s to a decade of the Seaside Semper Five, and here’s to many more years of honoring our heroes. From the entire Coyne PR family, we’re proud, humbled, and ever grateful to be part of this journey. See you next September on the Seaside Heights Boardwalk.
