Mel Williams Memorial Seashore 50K

Event overview

The Mel Williams Memorial Seashore 50K is a two-loop trail race at First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach, beginning and ending at the 64th Street boat ramp. The course uses park trails and includes two full aid stations located at 64th Street and Bald Cypress; runners pass each aid station multiple times. This is a cupless event, so runners are recommended to carry water bottles and a collapsible cup. Registrants receive a Brooks shirt and finishers receive a medal. A post-race party will be held at Smartmouth Brewery Pilot House, 313 32nd St., and one beer ticket plus food are provided to runners and volunteers.

Logistics, registration and rules

The race is scheduled for December 14, 2025. Entry fees are $100 before September 1 and $125 from September 1 to December 11; Tidewater Strider members receive a $5 discount. Online registration is open until December 11 or until slots fill; there is no race-day registration. Refunds are available with a $25 admin fee through August 31; no refunds, transfers, or deferrals after that date. A waitlist operates until December 11 and selected runners have two days to claim an open spot. An overall 8-hour time limit applies for an official finish, and intermediate cutoffs are enforced at the loop turnaround and at aid stations. Awards are given to top overall and masters finishers and to top finishers in specified age groups. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.