Run Oak Island (BAM! Race Series)
Oak Island, NC
Feb 15, 2025
- 26.21 Miler, Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, 1 Miler
- Road (Paved)
- Official race website
Run Oak Island is the first race of the BAM! Race Series located on the lower Brunswick County Islands! BAM is short for #BigAssMedals and the medals do not disappoint! Oak Island is a beautiful coastal island large enough for a FULL MARATHON! Highlights include: Lighthouse, 13+ miles of beach … MORE
Find Nearby Lodging (hotel, rental, etc.):
Beach town race
I chose to get up at 2 am to drive the 2.5 hours to this race. The course for the half marathon was quite flat and was mostly through neighborhoods. … MORE
I chose to get up at 2 am to drive the 2.5 hours to this race. The course for the half marathon was quite flat and was mostly through neighborhoods. There wasn’t really much opportunity to see the ocean from the course due to the sand dunes. The medal was pretty big and the t-shirt was a nice soft blend.
Fun, Sunny Run at the Beach
Really well-produced race with first-class medal and shirt. Ample aid stations. Great looping course that takes you on the street fronting the ocean to the island interior and even out … MORE
Really well-produced race with first-class medal and shirt. Ample aid stations. Great looping course that takes you on the street fronting the ocean to the island interior and even out and back on the bridge over the intercoastal waterway. But it is all street running, and the sun comes up early: 50s feel HOT in February. Great barbecue at the finish. Mediocre beer. Best medals in racing — though your pre-race packet is just going to be their colorful T-shirt and a number. Could do more with swag (see Gorilla events in Nebraska) that emphasizes what’s local and awesome about the Grand Strand! Decent field for all races that mix throughout. You’re never likely to run alone, but the walkers and 5K and 10K-ers could distract you.
Fine Island for a Long (or Short) Race
BAM does it better than just about anyone, and they have the track record, busy race calendar, and incomparable swag to prove it. This has got to be their highlight … MORE
BAM does it better than just about anyone, and they have the track record, busy race calendar, and incomparable swag to prove it. This has got to be their highlight — over and above North Myrtle and Myrtle and Ocean Isle and Sunset, Oak Island just brings together the right blend of island-covering courses, top-tier support, a sprinkle of avid spectators, and top-notch awards and after-race festivities to keep you going back. Runners are their top priority, and it shows. Well worth the pricey fees. Great expo, fine shirts, and BIG ASS MEDAL.
Not flat
1st half was better than the 2nd. You’re more exposed to the winds and it was in our face for several miles. The bridge at mile 22/23 that you literally … MORE
1st half was better than the 2nd. You’re more exposed to the winds and it was in our face for several miles. The bridge at mile 22/23 that you literally turn around at and hit twice with no relief was a real buzz kill. Overall course wasn’t really flat I had just under 450ft in ascent. I would run Jekyll Island GA again b/c it was more quaint, pretty, and truly flat. I’m not unhappy by any means though for doing it. I still think it was a good NC option. The medal is as big as my head which I didn’t expect,
save your energy for the bridge
Mostly flat course with one large bridge near mile 22 going over the intercoastal waterway as the course elevation map indicates. traffic is open during portions of the course and … MORE
Mostly flat course with one large bridge near mile 22 going over the intercoastal waterway as the course elevation map indicates. traffic is open during portions of the course and one section of sidewalk running for the marathon so keep alert.
Not much community support along the course but maybe due to most homes being summer houses?
Nice, small town vibe with good restaurants and fun places to explore.
Great fun!
The race was extremely well organized, from bib pickup to post-race goodies. I signed up for the “East” half marathon, which was to be finished in 3:30 or sooner. I … MORE
The race was extremely well organized, from bib pickup to post-race goodies.
I signed up for the “East” half marathon, which was to be finished in 3:30 or sooner. I felt prepared, and couldn’t have asked for better conditions – low 50s to start, overcast, and a steady breeze off the ocean. I was going for a recent PB – I hadn’t run an organized race since 2012 – but I developed severe lower back pain over the last 3.1 miles that made for an agonizing finish. I made it, but my son, who finished well ahead of me, met me at the 13-mile mark and we crossed the finish line together, after which I collapsed into his arms. He had to help me get to a place where I could sit, but, amazingly, after a beer, banana, and barbecue, I was almost completely recovered.
There were plenty of volunteers who were knowledgeable and supportive, and my overall experience was 100% positive. The BAM – Big Ass Medal – is just that and my favorite since I began organized running in 1978.
I’ll be 68 this Friday and hope I’ll still be running when I’m 98. That’s the plan, anyway.
Kind to those near back of pack
The locals were extremely friendly, as were the volunteers. The pacers were very talkative, though I fell well behind them. There was a lot of encouragement from volunteers near the … MORE
The locals were extremely friendly, as were the volunteers. The pacers were very talkative, though I fell well behind them. There was a lot of encouragement from volunteers near the end of the race, even after 5 hours.
Flat and fast beautiful weather in febr!
Friendly people great scenery perfect weather! Well organized race with lots of support. Good music, good route, great weather for after party. Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzxxxxxxxxx MORE
Friendly people great scenery perfect weather!
Well organized race with lots of support.
Good music, good route, great weather for after party. Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzxxxxxxxxx
HUGE GLORIOUS MEDAL/NICE COURSE
I ran this race in the series of my quest of tackling all 50 states. Overall it was a nice course, nothing to stand out, but a gentle course in … MORE
I ran this race in the series of my quest of tackling all 50 states. Overall it was a nice course, nothing to stand out, but a gentle course in warming up for the year. However, living in NC for 12 years may be the reflection of seeing the same scenery over and over, but coming from living in the west now, the warm weather this time of the year is an awesome option. The delicious BBQ at the end was much appreciated and everyone has that southern hospitality, so friendly and welcoming… love that! Also, you are presented this huge medal (bigger than your hand) that is well designed and beautiful. Great choice for NC!
Simple No Fuss Race
I ran the west course of the half, which takes you down the island and up over the bridge. The elevation gain isn’t horrible but you have to run it … MORE
I ran the west course of the half, which takes you down the island and up over the bridge. The elevation gain isn’t horrible but you have to run it out-and-back so if you never run hills this might slow you down. There wasn’t anything special about this one except maybe the medal size (it’s called BAM for a reason). Everyone there was super nice and the BBQ at the end was amazing! I thought it was pricy for what you got and there isn’t much to do in this area outside of the race itself.
Weird awards system but good course supp
This event has two half marathons - one "fast and flat" and the other with a big bridge at mile nine. They combined the results so everyone who ran the … MORE
This event has two half marathons – one “fast and flat” and the other with a big bridge at mile nine. They combined the results so everyone who ran the course with the bridge was competing in the same group as those who didn’t. That felt unfair. Otherwise, the race is supported well and the area is very pretty.
First BAM race
This was my first ever BAM race and it was fantastic. The energy was great, it was well organized and the medals are awesome. The weather was chilly but perfect … MORE
This was my first ever BAM race and it was fantastic. The energy was great, it was well organized and the medals are awesome. The weather was chilly but perfect for running. The wasn’t much for scenery except some nice homes a few streets off of the beach. Parking can be a little challenging and traffic control needs to be managed a bit more. I watched as a driver nearly ran over a runner approaching the finish line. I enjoyed the race and will be back to run again next year.
Great race, flat course
I did the East Course for the half option (they give you two routes to choose from). It was flat and fast and the weather was perfect! The run out … MORE
I did the East Course for the half option (they give you two routes to choose from). It was flat and fast and the weather was perfect! The run out to the lighthouse was mostly shaded while there was a bit more sun on the way back in running adjacent to the beach. Great medal and everything went off smoothly from packet pick up, race start, and there were a ton of volunteers on the course to make sure you went the right way. Overall great race and the flattest course I’ve done in my 12 half marathons.
BAM IT, COLD AND WET
I wish I was in Kansas, I wish I was in Kansas, I wish I was in Kansas — as I click the heels of my Brooks Trascends to try … MORE
I wish I was in Kansas, I wish I was in Kansas, I wish I was in Kansas — as I click the heels of my Brooks Trascends to try and transcend the cold and wet rain. Who ordered this weather at the last minute. This was a run you had to complete with your mind over matter, because it didn’t matter that I was out of my mind.
I spent the night at the Wilmington Airport and caught a Lyft to the start line where I was met with the cold and the rain immediately stepping out of the car. I changed in the car, dropped my bag off and had two minutes to cross the start line — talk about cutting it close. But when you running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 weeks to celebrate your 50th Birthday Year in the midst of a pandemic, cutting it close is better than nothing.
Speaking of cutting it close, if you’ve been following my AUDACIOUS ACTIONS, you might have read an article (or two) or heard a podcast (or two) of how I was the victim of a workplace shooting where I literally came one millimeter from having a bullet fragment hit my femoral artery — that’s cutting it close. If you haven’t read it, you may click on this link to listen and learn about just how close I came to bleeding out in a company parking lot —
Aaron’s Audacious Goal.
https://murfieldcoaching.com/2021/01/12/what-is-your-2021-audacious-goal/
Speaking of parking lots, the race course seemed like it was becoming a parking lot for boats to sail in from the Atlantic Ocean to begin the marathon.
If you run for the BLING, you most definitely will want to sign up for BAM races, who spare no expense making you feel like the training and the run was worth it and making you feel like you should have pushed through to finish if you were not able to. I for one was not able to push through the elements and the stress my body had to endure. My PTSD had kicked in between miles eleven and thirteen causing me to experience sever depression and crying spells. In addition, the cold made the pain in my glutes more sensitive. Add to it the fact that my fingers had frozen together while running.
I just couldn’t continue, so I stopped at mile 14; where a lady whose husband had ran the marathon asked me if I wanted a Body Armour and a banana. I wanted to mile fifteen then turned back onto the course and headed down the home stretch.
BAM put on an excellent event in spite of all the challenges Covid brought to bear. I definitely want to complete their series at some point in the future.
Worth it for the medal!
I ran this race during COVID, so my experience was likely different than in other years. The weather made things particularly difficult--it rained the entire time, and it was chilly … MORE
I ran this race during COVID, so my experience was likely different than in other years. The weather made things particularly difficult–it rained the entire time, and it was chilly and windy. I was soaked through within the first mile. My flight there the night before was delayed 2.5 hours so I missed packet pickup, but the race director was extremely kind and told me it would be okay to pick it up on race morning (even though they had repeatedly said this would not be an option).
We were told this would be a cupless race and we would need to provide our own hydration–volunteers would only fill up our bottles. I brought a backpack for my water, but they ended up having cups/bottles on the course anyway. At the finish line, there was delicious pork BBQ. I received the best medal I have ever earned–an enormous sea turtle that opens up locket-style. They are known for awesome medals, and they certainly did not disappoint. They also gave us a thin finisher’s jacket (only to marathoners). I had to purchase a t-shirt separately when I registered (it is not a tech shirt, just a regular cotton t-shirt). They were also supposed to give us fleece blankets, but they didn’t arrive in time due to COVID. Overall, I would say the swag was excellent! They also provided free photos as you cross the finish line (look for them on Facebook).
The course was relatively flat except for a bridge at the end (out and back, so you get the hill on both sides). The view of the beach was blocked by dunes and buildings. I might have enjoyed my stay more had it been a sunnier day!
Well organized, good swag, super flat!
They do packet pickup the morning of, super close to race starting line and trust me, they'll be ready for you no matter how early you arrive to pick up … MORE
They do packet pickup the morning of, super close to race starting line and trust me, they’ll be ready for you no matter how early you arrive to pick up your bib etc. Coastal Race Productions always offeres nice swag. This time around it was a nicely ventilated running hat! They also have inexpensive swag purchase options like soft cotton tee shirts for like 15 bucks and beach towels, fleece blankets. Nice tee and hat design. You can pay for these online when you sign up in advance and they’ll have them for you at packet pickup. They always do a packet pickup the day before somewhere local, but it really isn’t an expo…I mean they’ll have a few energy gels, some socks, and handheld water bottles available to buy, but not much really.
This race offers a full marathon (which I believe the free giveaway for running that distance was a long sleeve quarter zip), half marathon, 5k and a 1 mile fun run. You can customize your bib up to 10 letters if you sign up well in advance and post race eats are your choice of 1 cold (though they try and keep it warm) slice of Papa John’s pizza or some pulled pork bbq (get this) with Texas toast, water, and a draft beer (Land Shark and 1 other like Coors Light on tap).
Like most races, happiness is often weather dependent and for 2020 it was a bit windy and in the 30’s at the race’s inception, but once the sun came up, it warmed up and you were good to go without gloves or long sleeves. Post race you’ll want a jacket minimum though because it can get gusty and you’ll be hot and sweaty.
Bring your own gels, though they do have frequent water stops and porta johns along the way.
Halfers run much of the full marathon course (it’s shared at the same time), but it never seemed super crowded except at the start of the race. They have a pro photographer that tries to take pics of every single entrant (I usually get 2 or 3 keepers) that she will post on Facebook a day or two after the race. Just follow the race page on FB and you’ll see all the photos…and there are a lot of them!
Age group awards available for all distances and are grouped in 5 year increments. The medals are indeed very big (hence it’s called BAM—Big Ass Medals), and the longer the distance you complete, the larger your finisher’s medal. They have a dj with music playing and doing announcements, you know, typical race stuff. Lots of porta johns at the start and finish, but get there early to get parking close to the start line.
Volunteers are all over directing traffic and helping out, but this is a small town race so there’s very, very few spectators, especially super early in the morning. No matter…for the full marathon and half marathon distances, you run right past a neat lighthouse. 5k’ers don’t get out that far to see the lighthouse unfortunately. For the most part the beach is hidden by homes, though you do run right alongside the beach much of the 2nd half of the race. And though this is a small town race, I’d say they get 1k entrants across all distances, maybe more.
Overall, this is a fun race that draws a fun crowd, the medals and swag are good, and the CRP (Coastal Race Productions) people definitely know how to organize a race. Follow them on Facebook and look for a discount code on Black Friday that’s usually good for 20 percent off all their future races, but is only good for like 1 or 2 days before expiring. In the Myrtle Beach and sourthern North Carolina area, CRP puts on the best races for sure. Consistently fun and well organized.
Not my best...
Great communication. Expo was extremely small. The whole race is mostly beach rentals and then the out and back over the bridge (hwy) between miles 22/23. Well supported with water/Gatorade. … MORE
Great communication. Expo was extremely small. The whole race is mostly beach rentals and then the out and back over the bridge (hwy) between miles 22/23. Well supported with water/Gatorade. Nice finishers jacket and pizza & a beer at the end.
Decent smaller race
The race is run mostly parallel to the beach but because of dunes and buildings, you never really see it. I did go to the beach the day before the … MORE
The race is run mostly parallel to the beach but because of dunes and buildings, you never really see it. I did go to the beach the day before the race and it was a nice, clean beach.
The course was flat except for having to go over a bridge twice. The medals are large (the do call it the Big Ass Medal Series) but the shirts weren’t tech shirts. They were nice t-shirts, but regular t-shirts all the same.
The organizers did do a great job with email updates leading up to the race. Post race you got a bottle of water, a banana, a beer, and your choice of bbq or pizza. I will say the bbq was pretty good. Parking near the start/finish line was plentiful and easy.
Overall, not a bad race if you don’t require lots of bells and whistles. The island itself was nice and had a couple of good places to eat.
Great President's Day Weekend Getaway
In February, I ran the Run Oak Island 5K in Oak Island, NC. Although I ran the 5K, the race also offered a half and full marathon. It is a … MORE
In February, I ran the Run Oak Island 5K in Oak Island, NC. Although I ran the 5K, the race also offered a half and full marathon. It is a part of the BAM (Big Ass Medals) series, which includes three other races on the NC coast. This was my first time running a race in that series, and I was very impressed. The medals and swag are great- the medals are beautiful, and even the 5K has a finisher’s medal. The 5K finisher’s medal is not as big as the half marathon, but it is better and more colorful than many of my marathon medals. The shirts are colorful and soft cotton.
The 5K course itself was great- fairly no frills, but we had two aid stations. It was well marked and had plenty of volunteers. The starting times were staggered that people did not run into each other, which I liked, and all the races started on time. The after party had pizza and barbeque for refreshments, along with post-race beer.
This race was on President’s Day weekend, and with many people having that Monday off work, it’s a great destination race to visit North Carolina for. The weather during that time of year is perfect for a half or full marathon and great if you are coming from a colder climate and want a break from the weather.
This race rocked!!
Beautiful scenery, water stops every couple miles, pretty flat but the bridge was a welcome challenge!! Had several runners coaching along the way which was awesome. Paul really encouraged me … MORE
Beautiful scenery, water stops every couple miles, pretty flat but the bridge was a welcome challenge!! Had several runners coaching along the way which was awesome. Paul really encouraged me (he was the 2 hour pacesetter) abd I finished with my best time ever!!!