- May 11, 2024
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For the past 11 years, the Ringling Bridge has transformed into a racetrack for runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. Runners can get set for the 2014 Wilde Honda Automotive Family Ringling Bridge Run Jan. 18. Formerly known as the New Balance Ringing Bridge Run, it’s a 4-mile road race benefiting the Sarasota YMCA. The event also includes a 1-mile fun run.
“It’s become a community gathering,” says Jen Robertson, director of the run at the YMCA, who has worked on the event for eight years. The run, one of the Sarasota Y’s biggest fundraisers, benefits its youth program.
Joanna Davis, a former employee of the Y, says she and her family look forward to the race every year. Davis runs while pushing her sons, ages 2 and 5, in a stroller.
“They love seeing the other people coming over the bridge and cheering,” she says.
The community feel is one reasons Sarasota loves the race Davis says.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re walking or running,” she says. “Everyone is there doing the same thing together.”
After the race, participants and their families are invited to continue the fun at the post run afterparty.
IF YOU GO
2014 Wilde Honda Automotive Family Ringling Bridge Run
When: 4-mile race begins at 7:30 a.m., and 1-mile fun run begins at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 18
Where: Van Wezel Performing Arts Center, 777 N. Tamiami Trail
Cost: $35 for individual or members of a team, $20 for youth (18 and under) and $70 for families (two adults and up to four youth)
Info: Call 955-7531
Contact Harriet Sokmensuer at [email protected]