Marking a decade of community wellness and philanthropy, RWJBarnabas Health and the New Jersey Devils have announced the 10th Anniversary of the Running with the Devils 5K Run & Walk. The milestone live event will take place on Sunday, Nov. 1, at Essex County’s South Mountain Recreation Complex in West Orange.
Since its modest beginnings with 238 participants in its inaugural year, the event has grown exponentially, drawing more than 2,600 participants across four distinct experiences.
Key event highlights
- Date & Location: November 1st at the South Mountain Recreation Complex (Cherry Lane and scenic reservoir), featuring a USATF-certified competitive 5K and a Wellness Walk.
- Virtual Options: Available from October 1st through November 1st, featuring the RunGo App with audio encouragement from Devils players and patients. New for 2026, virtual participants can choose a traditional timed run or a cumulative distance challenge.
- Special Guests: New Jersey Devils alumni, mascot NJ, and various university and pro sports mascots will be on-site to cheer on participants and pose for photos.
- Perks & Activities: All registered participants receive free entry to the Turtle Back Zoo, featuring post-race family activities and the returning “Get Fit with Animals” passport challenge.
- Unique Kickoff: More than 100 Devils Youth Hockey players will host a special 5K skate (40 laps) at Essex County’s Codey Arena on October 4th.
Supporting New Jersey health care
Backed by a partnership spanning over three decades, the event directly supports essential programs and services across the state. Proceeds benefit vital areas including:
- Behavioral Health Services & Cancer Care
- Children’s Health & Women’s Health
- Heart and Vascular, Neurosciences, and Orthopedics
- Emergency Medicine, Digestive Health, and Nursing Education
“For the past 10 years, The RWJBarnabas Health Running with the Devils 5K Run & Walk has brought our system and community together around a shared commitment to build better health and well-being,” Mark Manigan, president and CEO of RWJBarnabas Health said.
Jake Reynolds, President of the New Jersey Devils and Prudential Center, echoed the sentiment: “Over the past decade, this event has become much more than a race—it’s created an opportunity to bring our fans, partners, and communities together around a shared commitment to health and wellness.”
How to participate
Registration is open now at rwjbh.org/runningwiththedevils.
