Sea Turtle Race: Cold Stun Run

Information: The Eighth Annual Sea Turtle Race will take place on at the scenic Orange Reservoir in West Orange. This race is nicknamed the “Cold Stun Run” to highlight our busiest time of year that usually starts in November and December. During this time of year our hospital will fill with sick sea turtles that are cold stunned from failing to migrate south before temperatures become too cold. The 5k race will start at 8:30 am.  The 1.7 mile Family Fun Walk starts at 8:35 am. Refreshments will be available after the race at Clipper Pavilion. Discounted admission to the Turtle Back Zoo will be available to participants that present their race id at the zoo admission ticket booth.  

Registration: (Discount available for USATF Members during registration - *Member number required)

     Now through September 14th: $30/1 person or Group Discount $25/person with 4 or more people.

    September 15th through October 10th: $35/1 person or Group Discount $30/person with 4 or more people.

Early Packet Pickup:  Friday October 9th from 5:30-7pm at the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, Ronald Mount Building     [Get Directions Here]

T-Shirts: Race shirts will be provided for participants who pre-register by September 14th.  Race shirts will be available in limited quantity to those who sign up after September 14th as supplies last on a first come, first served basis at check in.

Race Day: 7:30 am Packet Pickup Starts

8:30 am 5k Run Starts

8:35 am Family Fun Walk Starts

Awards: 5k Run only

Top Male Overall

Top Female Overall

Top 3 Male/Female Age Groups: 

14 and under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, 80 and above

Location & Parking:  Essex County Park at Orange Reservoir, Cherry Lane, West Orange, NJ US 07052 with parking available on the west side of Cherry Lane, across from Clipper Pavilion.

2026 USATF Sanctioned Event