SARASOTA COUNTY- Get a running start on the holiday season by participating in the 49th annual Sandy Claws Beach Run, starting at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13, at Siesta Beach Park, 948 Beach Road, Sarasota.
The 5K run and one-mile fun run have become fixtures in the Sarasota County community. Presented by Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources, the event draws hundreds of runners, walkers and joggers each year. Proceeds benefit the “Summer in the Parks” Adopt-A-Camper scholarship program.
“The Sandy Claws Beach Run is a cherished Sarasota County tradition. We’re proud to host events like this that promote health and wellness while uniting our community,” said Nicole Rissler, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources.
The one-mile fun run will begin at 8 a.m., followed by the 5K run at 8:20 a.m. Early packet pickup will be from 3-6 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 11, at the New Balance Sarasota store, 1872 Stickney Point Road, Sarasota. Packets may also be picked up on race day before 8:10 a.m.
The 5K race is chip-timed and sanctioned by the Manasota Track Club as part of their fall racing series. There will be finisher medals for all participants. Custom awards will be presented to the overall winners and the top six finishers in each age category.
Kinesiology taping, stretching support and massages will be available for all runners before and after the races. Following the races, participants are invited to stay for music, food, holiday photo opportunities and raffle prizes. All athletes are also invited to participate in a holiday-themed costume contest, with contest winners and race awards announced at 9:15 a.m.
Register by Nov. 21 to guarantee the best price and receive a long-sleeve performance event shirt and runner goodies. Registration will remain open online until 7:40 a.m. on Dec. 13. To register, visit www.bit.ly/sandyclawsreg.
This annual event is presented by Sarasota County Parks, Recreational and Natural Resources, Eager Beaver Car Wash, FASTSIGNS of Sarasota and North Port, New Balance Sarasota/New Balance University and Fleet Feet Sarasota, Venice Pier Group — Siesta Beach Eats, Chick-fil-A Pelican Plaza, Oak & Stone, Skin Vitality MD, Paws ‘n’ Rec and Nichole Lunn State Farm.
For more information, please email [email protected] or visit SarasotaCountyParks.co