Running News Daily

Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend Receives Virginia Green Travel Star Award

On April 25, 2022, the Virginia Green Travel program recognized 20 Virginia tourism businesses and 7 individuals for their outstanding efforts to protect the environment and support green tourism in Virginia. The awards were presented during the 9th annual Virginia Green Travel Conference.

The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend received the Virginia Green Travel Star Award as Green Event of-the-Year for their above-and-beyond efforts to protect the environment and support sustainable tourism in Virginia.

“Conserving natural resources, engaging customers, and working to increase sustainable tourism business in Virginia. The Virginia Green Travel Certification program works to support and promote those businesses that are committed to reducing the environmental impacts of their operation,” says Tom Griffin, the Executive Director of the Virginia Green Travel Alliance. “The Virginia Green Travel Star Awards recognizes the ‘greenest’ businesses and individuals that have demonstrated outstanding commitments to the environment in the past year. We are proud to recognize J&A Racing and the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend as a true partner in our efforts to promote sustainable tourism in Virginia!”

“We are thrilled for the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend to be recognized for this great award,” said Amy Frostick, Co-Owner of J&A Racing.  “At J&A Racing, we understand the importance of being environmentally conscious, and we work really hard to take care of the community that we are so blessed to call home.  We live in an amazing place to log our miles, and we are dedicated to continuing to keep it green!”

The Virginia Green Travel program is run through a partnership between the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, the Virginia Tourism Corporation, Virginia State Parks, the Virginia Restaurant, Lodging & Travel Association, and the Virginia Green Travel Alliance. The program encourages green practices in all sectors of Virginia’s tourism industry. More than 1,200 businesses and partner organizations have voluntarily certified their green commitments through Virginia Green.

The Virginia Tourism Corporation promotes the certified Virginia Green program partners at www.virginia.org/green-travel and encourages visitors to plan their green vacations in Virginia.

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality provides technical resources and oversight of the certification process — www.deq.virginia.gov/get-involved/pollution-prevention/virginia-green

The Virginia Green Travel Alliance is the non-profit organization that administers the Virginia Green certification program and supports partner outreach and educational opportunities – www.VirginiaGreen.net.

All 41 Virginia State Parks are certified in the Virginia Green Travel program, and VSP and Virginia Green Travel are working to “co-brand” and promote sustainable tourism opportunities in all regions of the Commonwealth.

Virginia Restaurant, Lodging & Travel Association assists in promotion and development of educational opportunities for the tourism industry.

About J&A Racing

J&A Racing is a nationally recognized race management company based in Virginia Beach, Virginia. With a portfolio of seven events, J&A Racing’s mission is to promote and support healthy lifestyles and the sport of running through all stages of life. Since 2003 when J&A Racing owners, Amy and Jerry Frostick, took over the Shamrock Sportsfest, the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend has become one of the most popular running events in the country growing from 3,000 participants to a record 30,000 in 2015. 

(05/13/2022) Views: 896 ⚡AMP
by Running USA

Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend Welcomes Team RWB As The Premier Charity

J&A Racing is proud to welcome Team Red, White, & Blue (Team RWB) as the official charity partner of the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Virginia Beach, a part of the Hampton Roads Community, has the world’s largest naval base in its own backyard. It is also the proud home of the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, and Marines. With approximately 260,000 military families living in Virginia Beach, the partnership with Team RWB is the perfect collaboration to celebrate health, wellness, and the military community at the 2022 event.

Team RWB is a nonprofit organization forging America's leading health and wellness community for military veterans, families, and their supporters. Team RWB's mission is to enrich veterans' lives.

"The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon has offered Team RWB Eagles from across the nation the opportunity to challenge themselves, encourage one another, and so much more since our organization was founded in 2010," said Mike Erwin, Executive Director of Team RWB. "We are grateful to be spotlighted as the premier charity partner of this year's race and are honored to be supported by the runners who are joining us in our mission of enriching veterans' lives."

Team RWB has more than 220,000 members spread across nearly 200 chapters and communities nationwide. The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend will provide both members of Team RWB and participants of the race the opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments.

“During the 50th Annual Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend we are excited to not only celebrate our past and present military participants together but to have a meaningful impact on our community,” said Ryan Conrad, J&A Racing Director of Partnerships. "Team RWB's vision of forging America's leading health and wellness community for veterans perfectly aligns with our goals. With so many veterans calling Coastal Virginia home, we're honored to have Team RWB as our premier charity partner."

The 50th Annual Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend will be held on March 18-20, 2022 in Virginia Beach, Virginia. To register for this race or for more information, visit shamrockmarathon.com

(08/24/2021) Views: 1,067 ⚡AMP
by Running USA

2021 Shamrock Marathon was a success but with most runners participating virtually

For the last 48 years, there’s been a sea of green at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront as the Shamrock Marathon took place. The 2020 race was cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic. This year, it was back, but for most runners, in a virtual sense.

“It’s still hurting. We’ve got a long climb up, but we feel this is the start and through the support from all the runners, we’ll get through it,” said J&A Racing co-owner, Jerry Frostick.

This year, almost 4,000 people ran “virtually” on their own and about 2,400 chose to run a J&A course at the Oceanfront.It was a scene that Frostick says was emotional.

“It’s unbelievable. I think what we were hoping to get was the positivity and momentum that — if we keep behaving, and doing what we’re supposed to be doing, and the vaccines are coming out — then, we’re coming back. I don’t mean just J&A and the Shamrock Marathon, but us as a community,” said Frostick.

The runners, were all smiles, like one family who missed the event and has been a part of it since 2018.Runners Steve and Rebecca Vennettilli say they participate every year, and even the kids run. They say it’s been a long time coming, but now there’s a light and the end of the tunnel.

“When it was cancelled last year, we thought that was it. And now, actually looking back, we can get through it. We can get back to this point,” said Steve Vennettilli.

(03/22/2021) Views: 1,059 ⚡AMP
by Aesia Toliver

Gearing up for the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend for Virginia Beach with all-new, COVID-safe race

The capacity limits will be different, the timing will be different, the courses are new and it will kick-off at King Neptune.

We're coming up on a year of COVID-19 in the U.S.

So many events were canceled in 2020 and already Norfolk called off its 2021 St. Patrick’s Day parade.

“About 30,000 people show up to watch the parade,” said Norfolk Vice Mayor and parade committee member Thomas Martin. “With current guidance, we just didn’t feel like we could do that safely.”

Still, a lot of organizers are looking at how to not miss out in 2021. That is especially true in Virginia Beach. As the city is seeing more record-breaking COVID case days, the organizer of the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend has some ideas on how to keep runners safe.

Their luck ran out when COVID forced them to cancel their 48th weekend last year.

“The big tent was already up on the beach; everything was set, and the Governor declared a state of emergency,” said J&A Racing Co-director Jerry Frostick.

The 49th year brings a one-of-a-kind, COVID safe, race.

“There is no, 'On your mark. Get set. Go,'” Frostick said.

To cut the crowds, racers can run the 8K, half or full marathon any time over the weekend between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. each day.

“You’ve got 10 hours a day that you can go at your own pace,” Frostick said.

The three new courses are spread out around Virginia Beach, along the Boardwalk and sidewalks, not the main roads. Races will still be timed.

The biggest changes of all are the limited capacity, and no party tent to celebrate.

Frostick said their usual 25,000 race count will be between 5,000 and 7,000, with many of those runners doing it virtually.

“It’s a huge difference,” Frostick said.

The tradition jumpstarts the summer season for Oceanfront businesses.

“All the businesses have supported this for 49 years,” Frostick said. “And they’ve had a really tough year, as all of us small businesses have.”

Frostick said running is also just good for the soul, especially during a global pandemic. His team is focusing on positivity and changing luck for their 49th year.

“It’s not the same experience, we acknowledge that,” Frostick said. “But it’s what we can do, instead of what we can’t do.”

(03/11/2021) Views: 1,144 ⚡AMP
by Allison Blaze

Legendary Marathoner Meb Keflezighi will return for the 48th running of the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend

J&A Racing announced today that Meb Keflezighi will return for the 48th running of the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend. This will be Keflezighi’s second consecutive appearance at the iconic running event in Virginia Beach over St. Paddy’s Day weekend.

“Virginia Beach and J&A Racing is the best,” said Keflezighi. “The community is genuine. You can see the heartbeat of the people that are there and this entire community.”

Keflezighi, the only athlete ever to have won an Olympic medal, the Boston Marathon, and the New York City Marathon, has remained active in the running community since his retirement in 2017. As part of Keflezighi’s 2020 visit to Virginia Beach, he will once again pace the 1:35 time group of runners at the Anthem Shamrock Half Marathon providing participants the chance to run with one of America’s greatest distance runners.

“This was a run of a lifetime. It was so fun. I never imagined being able to run an entire half marathon with a legend. I ran a personal best by four minutes with Meb,” said Lauren, a participant in the 2019 Anthem Shamrock Half Marathon.

In addition to pacing on the half marathon course, Keflezighi will make appearances at the Virginia Eye Consultants Shamrock Sports and Fitness Expo, serve as the official starter for all of the races throughout Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend, and visit select local elementary schools participating in the Operation Smile Shamrock Final Mile.

“We are ecstatic that Meb will be attending the 48th running of the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon weekend.  The four-time Olympian is very personable and inspiring.” said Amy Frostick, co-owner of J&A Racing. “Meb has such a great story of success to share with our runners.”

The 2020 Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend takes place March 20-22. 

(09/10/2019) Views: 2,022 ⚡AMP

The 2019 Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend generated a total impact of over $21 million for the local Virginia Beach economy

The 2019 Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend was hosted in Virginia Beach on March 15-17. The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon, Anthem Shamrock ½ Marathon, TowneBank Shamrock 8K, and Operation Smile Shamrock Final Mile welcomed participants from all 50 states and multiple countries.

In total, there were over 45,000 runners, walkers and spectators that took part in the festivities.

“Events such as the Shamrock Marathon Weekend drive visitation to Virginia Beach during our shoulder season and boosts the local economy considerably while raising awareness that Virginia Beach is a year-round destination with many activities and experiences to enjoy,” said Brad Van Dommelen, Director of the Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The economic study conducted by San Diego State University also determined that the event created over 14,000 total hotel room nights. It also generated $800,000 in taxes and fees and contributed $150,000 for its charity partners.

“Absolutely hands down the best race weekend ever! From the start til the after party, well organized! Our group of 20 will definitely be back,” said a 2019 participant.

The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend returns for its 48th running on March 20-22, 2020

(07/22/2019) Views: 2,055 ⚡AMP

Meb Keflezighi is going to be a pacer at the 2019 Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend

Event organizer J&A Racing said that Keflezighi will serve as a pacer for the Anthem Shamrock Half Marathon and make special appearances throughout the weekend.

Keflezighi is the only athlete with an Olympic medal to go with victories in the Boston and New York City marathons. He retired from professional running last year after competing in 26 marathons and many shorter distance races. He has stayed involved in running, focusing particularly on promoting youth health and fitness.

“I know many runners travel to this event from all over the country because it is an amazing event and Virginia Beach has a vibrant local running community,” Keflezighi said in a statement.

“I’m so grateful for the opportunity to run the half marathon and experience race weekend for myself.”

“Meb’s passion for the sport of running and involvement with youth fitness makes him a perfect fit for the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend,” said Jerry Frostick, co-owner of J&A Racing. “He is an inspiration to runners of all ages, and we know his presence will bring an added excitement to race weekend for our participants and spectators.”

(12/18/2018) Views: 1,429 ⚡AMP

New pace group times for the 2019 Yuengling Shamrock Marathon to help runners qualify for Boston

The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon, known for its fast and flat course, scenic views, and enthusiastic finish line, has always been a runner’s top choice to qualify for the Boston Marathon.

In an effort to aid participants who aim to qualify for the 2020 Boston Marathon, J&A Racing today announced new pace group times for the 2019 Yuengling Shamrock Marathon.

The move comes following this year’s change in Boston qualifying standards for 2020 and beyond. For many years runners have chosen the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon as their Boston qualifier course of choice.

The 2019 Yuengling Shamrock Marathon pace groups will feature times from 3:00 to 4:50 to align with the new Boston Marathon qualifying times, which are faster than in years past.

“The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon is a great race to run if you’re hoping to toe the line at the Boston Marathon,” said Jerry Frostick, co-owner of J&A Racing.

“Our goal is to make sure our races offer the best possible experience for participants of all abilities, and these updates to our pace teams will help our faster runners achieve their goals.”

(12/13/2018) Views: 1,547 ⚡AMP

Meb Keflezighi will be pacing at the 2019 Yuengling Shamrock Marathon

Meb Keflezighi will serve as a pacer for the Anthem Shamrock Half Marathon as well as make special appearances throughout St. Patrick’s Day Weekend. Keflezighi is the only athlete ever to have won an Olympic medal, the Boston Marathon, and the New York City Marathon. He retired from professional running in 2017 after competing in 26 marathons and countless other races. Keflezighi remains an active part of the running community with a particular focus on promoting youth health and fitness. “I’m excited to be spending St. Patrick’s Day at the 2019 Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend. I know many runners travel to this event from all over the country because it is an amazing event and Virginia Beach has a vibrant local running community,” said Keflezighi. “I’m so grateful for the opportunity to run the half marathon and experience race weekend for myself.” As part of Keflezighi’s visit to Virginia Beach, he will pace a time group of runners at the Anthem Shamrock Half Marathon. Keflezighi will also make appearances at the Shamrock Sports and Fitness Expo, serve as the official starter for all of the races throughout Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend, and visit the local elementary school that has the most students register for the Operation Smile Shamrock Final Mile.  (07/19/2018) Views: 1,898 ⚡AMP