Runners and walkers will get a view unlike any other as they head over the iconic Jewfish Creek Bridge during the First State Bank Key Largo Bridge Run on Sunday, Nov. 14. An event that brings community members and visitors together will support organizations and causes in the Florida Keys this year.
Hundreds of runners will walk and run over the bridge — the gateway to the Florida Keys — overlooking the Key Largo Bay. Now in its 11th year, the run will feature a half marathon and 5K run/walk that will end at Gilbert’s Resort in Key Largo.
Organizations benefiting from the race include Teen Intervention and Prevention Services of the Florida Keys’ mission to inspire youth towards a path of nonviolence through education and athletics. The nonprofit provides prevention classes and workshops to middle and high school teens in the community.
Another beneficiary from this year’s race is Wesley House Family Services. Founded by the Methodist Church as a settlement program for Key West’s Cuban community, Wesley House promotes and enhances safety, well being and development of children by educating, supporting and meeting the needs of families. With services spanning from Key West to Key Largo, Wesley House offers foster care and child development services to case management and adoption for area children.
This year’s bridge run also supports Key Largo School, Rotary Club of Key Largo and the Rotary Club of Key Largo Sunset.
“This beautiful race is a true community event as runners will come to the finish line at Gilbert’s Resort where they’ll be met by family and friends. But this event, now in its 11th year, also gives back to the community and its youth,” said Henry Menendez, event organizer and president of HNO Productions. “
A meet-and-greet party with appetizers and drink specials is planned for Friday, Nov. 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Key Largo Conch House, MM 100.2.
Runners can pick up race packets between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 13, at First State Bank in Key Largo, MM 97. Packets also are to be available on the morning of the race beginning at 5 a.m. at the starting line at Gilbert’s Resort access road.
A Saturday evening Pasta Party dinner for runners to “carb up” is set for 6 to 8 p.m. at Doc’s Diner, mile marker 99 bayside. Tickets are $25 per person and are to be available for purchase in advance at keylargobridgerun.com.
More information is at keylargobridgerun.com
