A scenic run overlooking the Florida Keys waters returns for the 15th year on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Runners in this year’s First State Bank Key Largo Bridge Run will race over Jewfish Creek Bridge as they challenge their best times. Walkers will go for a relaxing stroll as the sun rises over the course.
With the annual 5K comes the return of the 10K event, giving participants the chance to trek the final part of the 18-Mile Stretch — the gateway to the Keys. The mostly flat course brings picturesque views overlooking Florida Bay and Barnes Sound.
Starting at 7:30 a.m. from Anchorage Resort & Yacht Club, just off the Jewfish Creek Bridge at MM 107.8, race participants will run or walk a course that takes them onto Jewfish Creek Bridge. Runners will turn around and head back over the bridge and return to the access road leading to Anchorage Resort and Yacht Club, where they will reunite with friends and family and enjoy music, drinks and food. The race will end around 9:30 a.m.
“We’re always stressing and promoting health and well-being within our community,” organizer Henry Menendez said. “In addition, we encourage everyone to enjoy the beautiful sights from the top of the bridge while admiring one of the most spectacular views of our beautiful island.”
Due to limited on-site parking, participants and spectators are encouraged to use the free parking and shuttle service at Key Largo School, MM 104, oceanside. Pre-race shuttles will depart from the school between 6 and 7 a.m., and travel from the finish line back to the school between 8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m.
The awards ceremony is scheduled immediately after the race at the Anchorage Resort. Awards await the top three male and female overall finishers, masters male and female finishers and the top three finishers in different age groups. Each participant earns a medal on completion.
This year’s medal ribbon features artwork by Barbara Hann. She said her love for art began in grade school.
“I paint whatever speaks to the soul. Usually, it’s some form of nature,” she said. “I’m drawn to meditation, so the natural transition is painting another form of meditation.”
More information is available by scanning the QR code here.
