The Ocean County College Foundation, OCC Athletics, and Kean Ocean will host the 2026 Viking 5K and Fun Run on Sunday, October 4, on the Ocean County College main campus in Toms River. The annual event raises funds to support the Foundation’s mission of expanding access to higher education for Ocean County residents through scholarships and awards.
The event welcomes participants of all ages and abilities, from seasoned runners to those looking for a day of fitness and community. In addition to the 5K, participants can take part in a fun run or health walk, or even just cheer from the sidelines. Sponsorship opportunities are available at multiple levels, providing local businesses and organizations with an opportunity to support scholarships while demonstrating their commitment to the Ocean County community.
“Lace up your sneakers and be a part of something bigger,” said OCC Foundation Executive Director Kenneth J. Malagiere. “Together, we can turn every stride into a scholarship and every moment into a milestone for Ocean County College students.”
Registration for the 5K is $25; the Fun Run or Health Walk is $5. Students and groups of five or more registrants are eligible for a discount. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m., and the 5K starts at 9 a.m., rain or shine. Parking is available in Parking Lot 2 near the Grunin Center.
For more details, registration, and sponsorship information, visit the OCC Foundation’s Viking 5K & Fun Run page or call 732-255-0492.
About the Ocean County College Foundation
Since 1965, the OCC Foundation has proudly served the Ocean County College community, awarding over $22.5 million in scholarships and special program funding for deserving students. The generosity of our donors continues to make a lasting impact, supporting initiatives like the Helping Hands Food Pantry, the Blauvelt Speaker Series, the Grunin Center for the Arts, the Global Travel Experience, the Veteran and Military Resource Center (VMRC), the Robert J. Novins Planetarium, Viking Athletics, and many more college and student-led initiatives. For more information, visit the Foundation’s website.