The University of Delaware is bringing Blue Hen energy back to Dewey Beach this June with the 5th Annual Chicken Chase 5K/1 Mile. 

The event combines a morning run or walk near the beach with a post-race celebration at The Starboard, giving people a great way to support a statewide UD initiative.

Race Day Details

The Chicken Chase 5K/1 Mile is set for Saturday, June 13th, at 7:30 a.m. in Dewey Beach, with all event activity centered at The Starboard (2009 DE 1). 

Participants can pick up packets or register on Friday, June 12th, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., while race morning registration and online signups will remain open from 6:30 a.m. until 7:25 a.m.

Beach Course With Boardwalk Views

The 5K course is fast, flat, and out and back, making it a good option for runners looking for a smooth race morning at the beach.

The route starts on Salisbury Street on the beach side, then continues on King Charles Avenue to Silver Lake Bridge. 

From there, participants head via Queen Street onto the Rehoboth Boardwalk, with the turnaround at New Castle Street.

University of Delaware student athletes, coaches, YouDee, and Baby Blue will be there to cheer participants on throughout the morning.

For those who do not want to run the full 5K, the event also includes a 1-mile walk, making it easier for everyone to take part.

Image: UD

Supporting the 302 Tour

All proceeds from the Chicken Chase will support the 302 Tour, a three-day tour across Delaware for University of Delaware student athletes and coaches.

Through the 302 Tour, participants visit sites in Kent, Sussex, and New Castle counties. 

The experience gives them a chance to connect with communities, visit historic sites, and learn more about the state of Delaware.

That purpose gives the Chicken Chase a local impact beyond race day. 

What Is Included With Registration

The Chicken Chase includes race day perks and post-race fun, with several amenities planned for participants.

Registration includes:

• T-shirts
• Finish medals for the first 300 participants
• Awards ceremony back at The Starboard
• Post-race party with Michelob Ultra, seltzers, wings, and more
• Starboard chicken wings at the post-race party

The post-race party is included for 5K participants, and people who are not running or walking can still join the party by selecting the guest pass option when registering. 

Image: The Starboard

Awards for Runners, Walkers, Alumni, and Teams

The event will recognize several categories of participants, from overall winners to age group finishers, walkers, alumni, and teams.

Awards will be given to:

• Top overall male and female finishers
• Male and female masters
• Top male and female University of Delaware alumni
• Top three male and female finishers in 10-year age groups from 13 and under through 70 and over
• Overall male and female walkers
• Largest team
• Fastest team

The fastest team category is based on five-person teams, with the top three times counting toward the final score and including a female participant.

Important Notes

Participants should review a few event policies before signing up. 

Dogs are not allowed, bibs are non-transferable, and registrations are non-refundable.

And don’t forget to wear your best blue and gold, bring the Blue Hen energy, and get ready for a fun race morning by the beach!

Keep following the blog for more Coastal Delaware events, local updates, and things to do around the beach towns.

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