Run/Walk for Autism Makes Triumphant Return

The Monichetti family (from left): Kara, Jeannie, Luke, Mike, Mary Kate and Mikey.

Runners participating in the 15th annual event.

Mike Monichetti and Mayor Len Desiderio pose with the tent sponsorship sign.

Sean Ilves, of Haddonfield, carried the American flag for the entire 5K Run.

Food, fun and a 5K run … all in support of the return of the Mike’s Seafood Run/Walk for Autism over Presidents Day weekend in Sea Isle City after a two-year hiatus caused by the pandemic. More than 4,000 people attended the event on Saturday, Feb. 18 at Excursion Park. Proceeds benefited special services schools, autism support groups, families of special needs children, and Autism Speaks.

“It was awesome to be back in person and see so many familiar faces come out in support of our 15th annual event,” said Mike Monichetti, president of the Run/Walk for Autism. “It’s a fun family event, and to see how much it has grown in the last 15 years is humbling. My wife Jeannie and I feel so fortunate to have the support from our community in helping to raise funds and awareness for children and adults with disabilities.”

To kick off the morning, attendees stopped by the tents at Excursion Park sponsored by 1st Bank of Sea Isle City to pick up their bibs and giveaway hats, check out the raffles, and browse more than 15 tables manned by autism support groups and related organizations that were offering brochures and information.

At noon, the buzzer sounded, and runners and walkers set out on their respective courses. Charlie Hepler, 17, of Monroeville, N.J., was the first man to cross the finish line in the 5K run, followed by Blair Biggin, 33, of Havertown, Pa., and Aaron Holibaugh, 31, of Egg Harbor Township. In the women’s category, Amanda Denning, 39, of Cape May placed first, followed by Nicole Ragucci, 33, of Sea Isle City, and Susan Reich, 64, of Ocean City.

After the run/walk, participants and families were treated to a continental buffet at Excursion Park, where they also had a chance to buy raffle tickets and take photos with characters inspired by Mickey, Ariel, Spider-Man, and King Bob the Minion. The prizes included lower-level tickets to Sixers, Flyers, Eagles and Phillies games, Zac Brown Band concert tickets, jerseys signed by Jalen Hurts and Bryce Harper, and $100 gift certificates to local restaurants.

Donations are still being accepted online at polarbearrunwalkforautism.com.

Axel from Crisis Response Canines.

Desiderio, Mike Givens, and Monichetti presented the trophies to the top three males and females overall.

Families enjoyed visiting with the different characters and posing for photos under the heated tents.