That's the ticket ...

THURSDAY, June 30

The Manatee Cal Ripken 10-year-old All-Star team will begin its state tournament at 9 a.m. against Okeeheelee, at Scott Carrigan Baseball Park, 1401 S.E., 17th St., Ocala. Pool play will continue throughout the weekend with semifinal and championship games for the 13-team tournament slated for July 3. 

FRIDAY, July 1-SATURDAY, July 2

The first step toward the Little League World Series begins at 7 p.m. with the final pool play game of the Florida District 26 Little League Majors All-Star Tournament, at G.T. Bray Park, 5502 33rd Ave. Drive W., Bradenton. The top two teams in the four-team field, which features Braden River and Lakewood Ranch Little League teams, will vie for the championship at 11 a.m. on July 2.

SATURDAY, July 2

The Florida District 26 Little League Juniors All-Star Tournament concludes with its championship game at 11 a.m., at G.T. Bray Park, 5502 33rd Ave. Drive W., Bradenton. The three-team tournament features East County squads Braden River and Lakewood Ranch Little Leagues with at least one, if not both local teams, guaranteed a spot in the championship game. 

SATURDAY, July 2

It’s time to lace up your sneakers for the New Balance Sarasota 5K Run/Walk at 7 a.m. The free race, which is open to participants of all ages and skill levels, runs through Sarasota across the South Bridge onto Siesta Key and to Crescent Beach Marina and back.