A Run/Walk Record: Mike’s Seafood Event Draws Crowd, Raises More Than $225,000 for Autism
More than 2,100 participants and 3,000 spectators bundled up and gathered along the Sea Isle City Promenade on Valentine’s Day for the 18th Annual Mike’s Seafood Run/Walk for Autism, a day celebrating community, compassion, and record-breaking generosity.
Runners were greeted by temperatures in the low 40s, calm winds, and sunny skies, creating ideal conditions for the annual event, which has become one of the region’s most anticipated winter traditions.
Hosted by Mike and Jeannie Monichetti of Mike’s Seafood, this year’s Run/Walk raised more than $225,000, the highest total in the event’s 18-year history. Proceeds from the event benefit Special Services Schools, autism support groups, and families of children with special needs throughout Cape May, Atlantic, and Cumberland counties.
“One of the most incredible parts of the day is seeing generations of Mike’s Seafood customers, friends, families, local officials, business owners, and community members come together with the shared goal of raising awareness and funds for children and individuals with autism,” said Monichetti.
Among the familiar faces showing their support were Eagles great Jason Kelce and his wife Kylie, who attended with their family and joined participants on the Promenade for the walk.
Mary Kate Monichetti, Kylie Kelce and Jeannie Monichetti.
The Immaculata Crew (from left): Mary Kate Monichetti, Elizabeth Lipscomb, Samantha Donmoyer, Emily Shappell, Alexandra Lipscomb, Sarah Lipscomb, Sara Desmond and Meghan McKelvie
Jason Kelce with Mikey, Kara Mia and Mike Monichetti.
Popular princesses, superheroes and characters posed for photos with families throughout the day.
“The reason this happens is because of all the work you put in, Mike,” Kelce told Monichetti during the event. “So, we’re happy to be part of it, it’s just an unbelievable event. It’s awesome for the community, it’s awesome for autism awareness and you just do an outstanding job, brother.”
The festive atmosphere began in the morning as participants arrived to pick up their race bibs and race-day T-shirts inside heated tents. Vendor tables featuring autism-related organizations offered information and resources, while families browsed door prizes and gathered before the race.
Families and children were posing for photos with costumed characters, getting their faces painted, and watching balloon artists create colorful designs.
At noon, runners lined up for the 5K race, while families and supporters prepared for the 1-mile fun walk along the Promenade.
Leading the pack in the 5K was Gobi Thurairajah of Egg Harbor Township, who finished in a course-record time of 15 minutes, 01.43 seconds. Alex Ermold of Reading, Pa., placed second among the men, followed by Michael Carolan of Philadelphia.
A group of walkers on the Promenade wearing their race day T-shirts and puzzle piece headgear.
Andrea Hering, Lincoln, Donna Hunt, Jolene and Claire Hering with Mike Monichetti during the event.
In the women’s division, Marisa Deichert of Sea Isle City took first place with a time of 18:50.34. Corinne Conley of Egg Harbor Township finished second, and Anabel Schaal of Penns Grove placed third.
After crossing the finish line, runners and walkers returned to the heated tents to warm up, enjoy refreshments, and await the awards ceremony and door-prize drawings. Among the prizes were tickets to Phillies, Flyers, and Eagles games, concerts, and gift cards to local restaurants and businesses.
Funds raised through Mike’s Seafood Run/Walk for Autism continue to support a wide range of initiatives. Contributions include a partnership with Shore Medical Center for its new sensory-friendly outpatient testing room, support for programs including Hoops for All in Margate, Shooting Stars Basketball in Sea Isle City, the Autism Sneaker Ball in Atlantic City, and the Sweethearts Ball for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities held annually at the Wildwoods Convention Center, and more.
Mark your calendars for the 19th Annual Mike’s Seafood Run/Walk for Autism on Saturday, Feb. 13, 2027! To learn more or donate, go to mikesseafoodrunwalkforautism.com.
Team Coco’s Light
