We take pride in Oxford’s unique personality and community spirit.

So the anecdotes that remind us that our city is a special place, not quite like the others, are always worth celebrating.

That’s why we are happy to share today the story of Oxford’s running Santa, and how friends and family stepped in to save a special city tradition.

Started eight years ago by Bret Beauchamp, a local professional who’s an avid runner, the sight of Santa Claus running through the streets of Oxford in the weeks leading up to Christmas has become something many look forward to.

But when Beauchamp got injured earlier this month Oxford’s running Santa tradition was in danger – if only for a moment. Friends and family quickly came to the rescue, and Santa hasn’t missed a step in Oxford.

Never mind that running in a Santa costume isn’t easy, especially for those not in the shape that Beauchamp is in. Still, they have donned the costume and run, run, run – logging dozens of miles and waving to adoring fans each step along the way.

We applaud Beauchamp for showing his Oxford style as our running Santa, and we thank his friends and neighbors who stepped in to keep a wonderful tradition alive.