Early registration encouraged by Nov. 17
The 45th annual Sandy Claws Beach Run on Siesta Key Beach has been scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 11, Sarasota County staff has announced.
Runners and walkers of all ages are welcome for the 1-mile or 5K fun runs and are encouraged to participate in the holiday-themed costume contest, a news release notes. The 1-mile fun run “has been redesigned this year to include gathering supplies to create the ultimate cup of hot cocoa during the racecourse,” the release adds.
Each participant in the 1-mile fun run will earn a ribbon, while each person in the 5K run will receive a finisher medal, the release points out. The run will be chip-timed, the release says. Custom awards will be distributed to those who finish in first through sixth places in all age categories, the release adds.
Following the races, runners and their families are invited to stay for music, food and raffle prizes, the release notes.
Event proceeds will benefit the Summer in the Parks Adopt-A-Camper scholarship program, the release points out.
Individuals are encouraged to register by Nov. 17 to guarantee the best price and to ensure they receive a runner bag and a long-sleeve performance event shirt, the release adds.
For online registration or a full schedule of events, visit scgov.net (keywords Registration and Reservations). Additionally, registration forms are available for pick-up at any county recreation center, library or government building. Completed forms may be mailed to Twin Lakes Park, Building C, 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota, FL 34241.
Early packet pickup will be offered from 3 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 9, at the New Balance Sarasota store, which is located at 1872 Stickney Point Road, the release notes. Race-day registration will begin at 7 a.m.
The 1-mile hot cocoa fun run will start at 8 a.m., followed by the 5K run at 8:20 a.m. The holiday-themed costume contest winners will be announced at 9:15 a.m., the release adds.
Siesta Beach is located at 948 Beach Road on Siesta Key.
This annual event is presented by the Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Department, Dr. Heidi K. Anderson and the Kiwanis Club of Siesta Key. Further, the release says, the 5K run is sanctioned by the Manasota Track Club.
For more information, call the county Contact Center at 941-861-5000 or visit www.scgov.net.