Lace Up

Seaside's s premier running event offers fun with every step By Wendy O. Dixon

The Seaside School Half Marathon and 5K is one of Florida’s favorite running events — luring runners who love the excitement of getting up early, pinning their bib, tying their shoe laces and relishing the joy of a run on scenic Highway 30A.

Benefiting the Seaside School Foundation, and presented by Vera Bradley, the race focuses on fun and fitness. While the event appeals to those from throughout the world who want to run on one of America’s most celebrated roads, many locals sign up for the event to support the Seaside Neighborhood School (SNS). “Every year, the gap between the Seaside School standard of excellence and the funding provided by the state seems to grow more and more, explains Teresa Horton, executive director for Seaside School Foundation. “There are either funding cuts or we simply want more for the students. In any case, the shortfall is significant each year.”

Larry and Melissa Davis have sponsored the event since its first year, and have watched it grow from a small running event to the weekend-long festivities held today. “Melissa and I, as original founders of The Seaside Neighborhood School are so proud of what the school has become, its impact on our community and its children,” Larry Davis, broker at Davis Properties of Northwest Florida, says. “With both our children graduating from SNS, it is one of our favorite organizations to support in any means possible.”

The event requires year-long planning, with more than 35 committee members helping throughout the year and more than 500 volunteers during the weakened.

Whether you’re a runner, sponsor, or enjoying the Taste of the Race, Horton says that support is needed and appreciated. “Your participation reduces class size. Your participation provides middle school and high school students the opportunity to participate in elective classes for gardening, music, art, an award-winning robotics program, advanced placement classes as well as career-readiness industry certification courses,” she adds. “Great things are happening at the Seaside School, thanks to you!”

Two options await the runners. The 5K is ideal for runners, walkers, first-timers and those who want to beat their personal record. For those who want to go the extra mile (or 10), the half-marathon offers a lofty, yet attainable reward.

The weather in February and March is somewhat unpredictable, so runners need to be prepared for temperatures in the 30s all the way up to the 70s and a possibility of rain.

A complimentary post-run meal will be provided by Chef Jim Shirley of Great Southern Café and Dave Rauschkolb of Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant. Grayton Beer will provide beer and Forrest Williams will provide entertainment.

For more information about the Half Marathon and 5K, visit the website runseasidefl.com.

Visit Seaside Neighborhood School online

Race Event Schedule

Friday, Feb. 28

Taste of the Race (Seaside Lyceum)

Presented by Emeril & Pepsi

6 – 7 p.m.: Porsche of Destin VIP Experience with Chef Emeril Lagasse

7 – 10 p.m.: Taste of the Race General Admission

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Saturday, Feb. 29

Race Expo (Seaside Lyceum) Presented by Wyndham Destinations

Noon – 5 p.m.: Race Expo

Noon – 5 p.m.: Race Packet Pickup

Noon – 5 p.m.: Silent Auction Expo featuring “Buy-It-Now” Pricing

Noon – 5 p.m.: Meet & Greet with 30A Local, Tom Glavine

Noon – 2 p.m.: Live Music

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Sunday, March 1

Half Marathon & 5K Run (Seaside Amphitheater)

7 a.m.: Half Marathon Start

7:25 a.m.: 5K Start

8:30 – 11 a.m.: Post-Race Party

8:30 – 10:30 a.m.: Silent Auction Expo featuring “Buy-It-Now” Pricing

9 a.m.: 5K Awards Ceremony

9:30 – 10:45 a.m.: Live Music

10:30 a.m.: Silent Auction Final Call

10:45 a.m.: Half Marathon Awards Ceremony

11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.: Live Music

11 a.m. – 1 p.m.: Purchase and Pick-Up Silent Auction Winnings