Sunshine seekers and cardio enthusiasts will find a fusion of fitness and community takes center stage while crossing the finish line.
Picture this: you, your running shoes and the Florida sun – creating the ultimate cardio cocktail. Sarasota’s year-round tropical playground is the perfect spot to break a sweat while soaking up those good vibes and “runner’s high.” Sarasota’s run clubs and marathon scene are all about good times, great company and a healthy dose of vitamin D! So, toss on your workout gear, lace up your sneakers and let’s hit the Sarasota streets for a run (or a light jog or sprint – two each is own!).
Wellen Park Half Marathon and 5K
Mark your calendars for an exhilarating run through the scenic heart of Wellen Park at the 2nd Annual Half Marathon and 5K on Saturday, March 16, 2024. Presented by Hotwire Communications, the race kicks off at 7:30 am for the Half Marathon and 7:45 am for the 5K, starting and finishing in the vibrant downtown area of Wellen Park in Venice.
You can also beat the Monday Blues by joining the Running Group Meet-up in Downtown Wellen Park every Monday. Meet the community running group every Monday night at 6:00 pm, starting in front of Kind Vibes Outfitters. No RSVP or registration is required to join.
19503 S. West Villages Pkwy, Venice, FL 34293
99 Run Club
Dive into Downtown Sarasota’s vibrant social and fitness scene at 99 Bottles, where every Wednesday at 6 pm–8 pm, the atmosphere is set for a group #run99 5K fun run, sponsored in part by Liquid Death. The weekly meet-up event not only promotes walkers, runners and pacers of all levels looking to make new connections in the community. After conquering the run, participants are rewarded with complimentary Liquid Death still or sparkling water cans. Complimentary beer is also given out whenever the run is sponsored by a brewery or there are leftovers to spare, creating an ideal setting to mingle and forge friendships post-5K. Particularly beneficial for newcomers to the city, it offers a gateway to building social circles centered around wellness and shared interests.
1445 2nd St, Sarasota, FL 34236
Ringling Bridge 5K/10K
The iconic Ringling Bridge Run is coming back for 2024! There will be several options for runners and families—5K, 10K, and a family fun run. The round-trip event will start at The Bay Park (next to the Sarasota Municipal Center), take you across the beautiful John Ringling Bridge and bring you back to the finish line where you started. Oh, and all along the way, local school drumlines will play to cheer you on! The run is presented by The Education Foundation of Sarasota County and supports student success and teacher programming. For those who wish not to participate, but want to cheer the runners on, will be delighted to find that during and after the race there will also be a community Well-Being Expo, open from 7 am–12 pm.
Nathan Benderson Park
Discover the scenic beauty of Nathan Benderson Park with its 3.5-mile loop, inviting runners anytime for a rejuvenating jog. For those craving the thrill of official competition, mark your calendar for May 4th, 2024, and join the 9th Annual SUP & RUN 5K. This extraordinary event, benefiting Operation Second Chance and RUCK9, offers three race options—5K Run, 5K Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP), or the exhilarating 5K SUP & Run combo. Whether you’re a serious competitor or a laid-back enthusiast, this family-friendly event welcomes all, with walkers encouraged to participate.
And in November, Nathan Benderson Park will likely be the host again for the Florida Turkey Trot, Presented by Publix. Nearly 4,000 people show on Thanksgiving morning for the annual Turkey Trot 5K run/walk. This beloved holiday tradition includes festive race shirts for the participants and culminates with finishing medals, as well as food and drink at the after-race party. Keep an eye out for the exact date and event details as the 2024 event grows closer.
5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota, FL 34235
Lakewood Ranch Jingle 5K Run
Gear up for a holly jolly experience at Lakewood Ranch’s annual Jingle 5K Run through Main Street. While the 2024 dates are still under wraps, it’s never too early to kickstart your training for this festive event. Renowned as one of the area’s largest and most spirited 5K races, the Jingle 5K attracts a dedicated community of runners and walkers year after year. Beyond the festive atmosphere, this event serves a noble cause, channeling its proceeds into the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center Foundation’s Nursing and Health Careers Scholarship Program.
8100 Lakewood Ranch Main St, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
Sandy Claws Beach Run
Get ready for the 48th Annual Sandy Claws Beach Run, a December tradition on the beaches of Siesta Key. While 2024’s exact event date has yet to be announced, mark your calendars for sometime early-to-mid December. Last year, participants gathered in the early hours for the exhilarating 5K for runners, as well as a leisurely morning stroll along the shore in a festive 1-mile fun run. Keep your eyes peeled for this Manasota Track Club-sanctioned event, ensuring a joyous start to the holiday season.
Siesta Key Beach Park, 948 Beach Rd, Sarasota, FL
Originally published on Visit Sarasota by Caleb Guedes-Reed on January 24th, 2024