The 17th Annual Saybrook Point 5K Road Race
The 17th Annual Saybrook Point 5K Road Race returns Saturday, August 22, bringing runners and walkers to one of Old Saybrook’s most scenic corners while raising money for scholarships benefiting local students.
The race begins at 8:30 a.m. at Fort Saybrook Monument Park, near the mouth of the Connecticut River. This isn’t simply a morning run. The annual event is a partnership between the Old Saybrook-Westbrook Exchange Club and Greater Old Saybrook Chamber, with proceeds helping support educational opportunities for area students.
A 5K With a Local Purpose
Money raised through the race supports local scholarship programs, including the Exchange Club’s A.C.E. Award, short for Accepting the Challenge of Excellence.
The award recognizes young people who have overcome significant challenges while continuing their education.
Race proceeds also support the C. Wilfred Hunter Memorial Scholarship through the Greater Old Saybrook Chamber. The scholarship honors Will Hunter, a former teacher and coach who served as executive director of the Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce from 1984 to 1989. It assists local students continuing their education at an accredited college, university or vocational school.
That gives every mile Saturday morning a little more meaning. Participants aren’t only crossing a finish line. They’re helping local students reach their next one.
Run Along Saybrook Point
The 5K starts and finishes at Fort Saybrook Monument Park and follows a road course through the Saybrook Point area. Runners, joggers and walkers are welcome.
The setting adds something special to the race.
Fort Saybrook Monument Park occupies a historically significant waterfront area near the mouth of the Connecticut River. Today, the park combines open space and river views with walking areas, a marsh-side boardwalk and interpretive displays exploring the history of Saybrook Point.
Remnants of the area’s railroad history can also be found within the park, including the site of an old railroad turntable.
It’s a fitting starting point for a community road race: a little shoreline scenery, a little local history and then 3.1 miles to get the heart working.
Something New for 2026: Come in Costume
There’s a new wrinkle for the 17th running of the race.
Organizers are encouraging participants to run in costume, with prizes planned for some of the best outfits. Depending on participation, organizers hope to award three costume prizes.
So serious runners can still chase a personal best, but anyone who’d rather run 3.1 miles dressed as something ridiculous now has a competitive category of their own.
Participants also receive a race T-shirt.
Registration and Packet Pickup
Online registration is required.
The advance registration fee is $30, with the price increasing to $35 for later registration.
Participants can pick up their race packets in advance on Friday, August 21, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Marathon Sports in Old Saybrook.
Race-day check-in and packet pickup begin at 7:30 a.m. Saturday, one hour before the starting signal.
Race Day Schedule
7:30 a.m. — Race-day check-in and packet pickup begins
8:30 a.m. — Saybrook Point 5K begins
Event Details
Event: 17th Annual Saybrook Point 5K Road Race
Date: Saturday, August 22, 2026
Race Start: 8:30 a.m.
Check-In: 7:30 a.m.
Distance: 5K / 3.1 miles
Advance Registration: $30
Later Registration: $35
Registration: Online
Beneficiaries: Local student scholarship programs
Whether you’re trying to beat your previous 5K time, walking with friends or showing up in costume for a Saturday morning along the shoreline, the Saybrook Point 5K combines a community race with support for local students.
More information is available at the Event Website link below.
To register for the race, click the Event Ticketing link below.
Featured image is an artistic representation inspired by the event and may not depict the actual people, location, or activities shown.
