Monk Run Returns to Saint Joseph Abbey

Following the extensive flooding last March, which resulted in $35 million in damage, the 2017 edition of the popular Monk Run makes its triumphant return to the beautiful grounds of Saint Joseph Abbey.  The annual 1-mile / 5k trail run and walk takes place Saturday, March 18 at Saint Joseph Abbey, located at 75376 River Road in St. Benedict, north of Covington. Monk Run will also qualify as the RRCA Louisiana State 5K Championship.

 The Abbey was closed to the public immediately after the flood last year, and race organizers with the 15th Street Flyers were determined to ensure the race returned home in 2017. Showing their resilience and “can do” attitude after the flood last year, the Flyers stepped up, relocating the race to Hubie Gallagher Park in Covington, where it became not only a street style race, but also a fundraiser for the Abbey, bringing in nearly $8,000 for the Abbey recovery efforts.

This year’s 1-mile race begins at 8 a.m., while the 5K race begins at 8:30 a.m. Registration and number pickup begin at 6:45 a.m.  Online registration is available through Saturday, March 11 at getmeregistered.com/monkrun2017. Pre-registration is $30, or $15 for ages 16 and under. T-shirts will be given out to all pre-registered entrants on the day of the race. Race day registration is $35, or $20 for ages 16 and under. Race day entrants are not guaranteed T-shirt availability or sizes. 

Registration forms, which can be downloaded here, may be mailed by Friday, March 10 (with checks only, payable to Saint Joseph Abbey) to Saint Joseph Abbey, C/O 15th Street Flyers, 49 Karen Dr., Covington, LA 70433. Registration is also available at Varsity Sports, 2021 Claiborne Street in Mandeville.

Hand-made awards from the Abbey monks will be given in several categories and age groups. Runners may also bring a chair or blanket for the post-race celebration featuring local food and refreshments, including beverages from Abita Brewing Company.

The flooding at Saint Joseph Abbey and Seminary College last March, the worst in a century, damaged 31 buildings and structures on the grounds, including the historic Abbey Church, monastery, Seminary College classrooms, residence halls, library, gym, dining halls, and kitchen. In addition to the return of Monk Run, other signs of progress this past year include the reopening of the Abbey Church, Woodworks, Pennies for Bread and the Gift Shop. Renovations on the Christian Life Retreat Center are scheduled to be completed in late 2017. To find out how you can help, visit www.helptheabbey.com.

For additional race information or to become a sponsor, call Diane Weiss at (985) 893-3684 or (504) 460-2991. To be a sponsor, contact Kathy Nastasi at (985) 867-2284 or knastasi@sjasc.edu by March 8, 2017.