KEY LARGO, Florida Keys— Registration is open for the second annual Key Largo Bridge Run, set for Saturday, Nov. 13. Organizers are planning a 10k event in addition to a half marathon and a 5k run/walk that is open to all ages.
The out-and-back foot races across the 65-foot-high, 1.25-mile-long Jewfish Creek Bridge are to occupy the northbound lanes of the bridge and the southern portion of the 18-Mile Stretch, a section of the Overseas Highway that connects mainland south Florida to Key Largo.
In October 2009, the Overseas Highway earned the prestigious designation of All-American Road from the National Scenic Byways program administered by the Federal Highway Administration.
The USA Track & Field–certified racecourse provides spectacular vistas of the Upper Keys and the eastern edges of the Florida Everglades.
Nearly 100 participants are already registered for the run, including enthusiasts from many U.S. states and as far away as Germany. The inaugural 2009 race attracted more than 800 contestants.
Jon Williams, the 2009 winner of the 5k men’s division, said Keys scenery is what drew him to the Key Largo event.
“The Keys are a great destination to race in, and the bridges provide something absolutely different than a purely flat race,” said Williams.
Presented by Key Largo Baptist Church, the Key Largo Bridge Run is to be held in conjunction with a Health and Fitness Expo from noon to 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 12, at the Key Largo Holiday Inn, mile marker (MM) 100.
Sponsored by the Florida Keys Area Health Education Center, the expo is to host a variety of vendors and health screenings. In addition, a silent auction is scheduled from noon to 9 p.m. and runners can pick up race packets during that time.
A pasta party is set for 6:30-8:30 p.m., hosted by Doc’s Diner at MM 100 bayside. Tickets are available at the expo.
Race entry fees are $25 per person for the 5k, $60 for the half marathon and $40 per person for the 10k until Aug. 15, when prices increase by $5. From Oct. 15 through Nov. 1, entry fees are $35 per person for the 5k, $70 for the half marathon and $50 per person for the 10k. Racers age 18 and under pay $10. There is no admission charge for the expo.
A post-race celebration is scheduled at Key Largo Baptist Church, MM 106.5 bayside. Highlights are to include food, music and awards.
For race weekend details, special lodging rates and registration information, visit www.keylargobridgerun.com or call 305-451-1642.
For more Key Largo area accommodations, call the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce at 800-822-1088, e-mail info@keylargochamber.org or visit the official website of the Florida Keys & Key West at www.fla-keys.com.
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