USPS Publication Number 16300
THE
SUMMATIONWeeklyy
This Community Newspaper is a publication of the Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association
S E RV I N G T H E F I RS T J U D I C I A L C I RC U I T Vol. 26, No. 28
July 15, 2026
SummationWeekly.com
1 Section, 10 Pages
Section A, Page 1
THE BULLS ARE BACK IN TOWN
RUNNING OF THE BULLS PENSACOLA 2026
By Dawn Gresko
G
et ready to run for your life — in the most fun way possible. The 15th Annual Running of the Bulls Pensacola returns on Saturday, July 25, bringing hundreds of runners, spectators and roller derby athletes together for a morning of friendly competition and community spirit in downtown Pensacola. Benefiting West Florida Roller Derby, the event transforms the streets surrounding Seville Quarter into a playful take on Spain's famous Festival of San Fermín. Participants will race through the course while being chased by 30 to 40 members of the West Florida Roller Derby and visiting skaters from across the region. Dressed as "bulls" in full gear, complete with horns, roller skates and inflatable bats, the derby athletes put a uniquely Pensacola spin on the centuries-old Spanish tradition. “Each helmet is designed by the skaters themselves,” Running of the Bulls Coordinator Breezie Seits said. “Some are held together with hot glue and duct type and others use bolts and screws. We have had some horns come in at over two feet across. It’s all a part of the fun when you have to duck when someone turns their head.” The result is part race, part costume party and part community celebration. Participants begin the day dressed in the event's traditional all-white attire, a nod to the clothing worn during the festival in Pamplona. Runners follow an approximately 2K course through downtown Pensacola, starting at Seville Quarter and winding along Palafox, Romana, Alcaniz and Zaragoza streets before finishing back in front of Seville. Along the route, the "bulls" charge through the crowd, delivering playful taps and encouraging plenty of laughter. Whether you're sprinting to avoid the derby skaters or simply soaking in the spec-
tacle, the event offers a memorable experience for participants of all ages and fitness levels. From elaborate group outfits to themed cheering sections, participants often embrace the event's playful atmosphere as much as the run itself. While the race itself is the main attraction, the festivities begin well before the starting horn sounds. “It’s a party from the start,” Seitz said. “There is music in the streets. Bulls getting riled up in the bull pin. Once the first whistle blows you can feel the excitement and fun flow by you.” Packet pickup will take place at Seville Quarter inside Phineas Phogg's Bar from 7:30 to 8:50 am on race morning. Participants are encouraged to arrive early to check in, grab their race materials and take photos with the derby skaters before the event begins promptly at 9 am. Once the final runners have survived the stampede, the celebration continues with an after-party and awards ceremony at Seville Quarter. The post-race celebration features complimentary beer while supplies last, live entertainment, awards and plenty of opportunities to swap stories from the course. A DJ will keep the energy high with upbeat music, while VIP guests can enjoy a mimosa bar and specialty cocktails from Matafor Vodka. Attendees can also grab a slice from Marco’s Pizza, or enjoy food from the Dirty Dragon Inn food truck. For many participants, the after-party has become just as much a tradition as the run itself. Those looking to elevate their experience can opt for the event's limited VIP package. Restricted to just 50 participants, the VIP Experience offers exclusive perks designed to make race day even more memorable. Starting at $60 per ticket, VIP guests receive premium seating, exclusive beverages plus complimentary champagne before the race while supplies last, delicious food offerings and an exclusive meet-and-
greet with the event's derby bulls. VIP participants also enjoy all the benefits included with general admission, making it the ultimate way to experience Pensacola's most unique summer event. General admission registration is $40 (plus tax + fees) and includes race entry, a commemorative event t-shirt, admission to the after-party and complimentary beer during the celebration. Organizers encourage early registration, as pricing increases closer to race day and event merchandise is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Not interested in running? There's still a way to join the fun. One of the event's most popular traditions is the Libation Station competition, which allows groups of up to 10 people to become part of the action without ever stepping onto the race course. Participants create themed refreshment stations along the route, complete with decorations, beverages and plenty of encouragement for passing runners. The cost is $200 (plus tax + fees). Each station is judged by the derby "bulls," who evaluate creativity and overall presentation. The winning station earns bragging rights and recognition during the awards ceremony following the race. The Libation Station experience has become a favorite among local businesses, friend groups and organizations looking to participate in a creative and highly visible way. It also adds another layer of entertainment for runners navigating the course. Beyond the costumes, laughter and playful chaos, Running of the Bulls serves a larger purpose. Proceeds from the event directly support West Florida Roller Derby, helping the organization continue its athletic programs, community outreach efforts and contributions to the local sports scene. Over the past 15 years, the event has grown from a quirky local fundraiser into one of Pensacola's signature summer traditions. What began as a creative adaptation of
a famous international festival has evolved into a beloved community gathering that attracts participants from across the Gulf Coast. Whether you're a seasoned runner, a roller derby fan or simply someone looking for a unique way to spend a Saturday morning, Running of the Bulls offers an experience unlike any other event in the area. So gather your friends, put on your best white outfit and prepare for a morning of dodging derby skaters and supporting a great cause. One thing is certain: standing still won't be nearly as much fun as running. Find out more and purchase tickets for Running of the Bulls Pensacola 2026 by following @bullrunpensacola on social media. To learn more about the West Florida Roller Derby, visit the website westfloridarollerderby.com. About West Florida Roller Derby: Pensacola Roller Gurlz, founded in September 2010, was the only
Photos by CJ Fabian
competitively geared flat-track roller derby league in the Pensacola area (covering both Escambia and Santa Rosa counties). In December 2014, Pensacola Roller Gurlz was accepted into the Women's Flat Track Derby Association as a full member. Pensacola Roller Gurlz was incorporated into a Florida Non-Profit organization in January 2018. In 2019, Pensacola Roller Gurlz became a 501(c)(3) charity and rebranded under the name West Florida Roller Derby. Today, the league consists of over 60 skaters and volunteers striving to promote athleticism and provide hardhitting entertainment for Pensacola, Milton and the surrounding areas. West Florida Roller Derby fosters athletic ability for everybody and every body, community involvement and provides an environment for personal empowerment, and welcomes interested skaters, referees and volunteers anytime.■
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