FRPM JAN-FEB 2026

Free VOL 44 NO 1 Jan - Feb 2026

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Lost in the Line of Duty United in Honor Tampa Bay’s Largest Duathlon October 9, 2010

January/February

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January/February

FLORIDA RACE PLACE

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Index - Jan - Feb 2026 Features

Bi-Triathlons Fl. Feet First Review FRPM Index Leo Swimming Running North Running Orlando Running South Running Southwest Running Tampa Bay

18 20,21 3 24 12 8 12 6 4

2026 Escape From Ft Desoto Triathlon April 11th Page 14

FRPM Eblast Service Space For Limited Call Now 813-417-0324 joe@flraceplace.com January/February

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Advance Rehab Boston Bills Sunglasses Certification—Bill Strack Elite Racing Schedule Feet First Feet First Product Review Leo Swimming Marty Gaal -Triathlon Coach Running Center Physical Chiropractic

10,18,48 33 37 35 2,32,56 20,21 24 43 13 15,22,30

Finish Line Racing Tri. Sunday May 3rd 2026 Page 9

Events

Gates River Run 15K / 5K Chilly Willy Duathlon 2026 Finish Line Triathlon / Duathlon Escape From Ft Desoto Triathlon Croom Trail Ultra Runs Tampa Firefighters 5K Gran Fondo Bike Rides IRB Rotary Run 5K Gasparilla Distance Classic First Florida Marathon Clean Air Bike / Crystal River Tri. Shamrock Distance Classic Elite Naples Distance Classic Elite Calendar 2026 Elite Fort Myers Half Marathon Elite Sarasota Suncoast Half Mar. Elite Sunrise Half Marathon & 5K Elite Naples Paradise Half Mar. Stomp Out Human Trafficking 5K Elite Venice Half Marathon & 5K Bare to Go Bare 5K St Pete Distance Classic 26.2,13.1 M Marathon Of Treasure Island Adventure Island 8K / 5K Hog Hustle 5K Strawberry Classic 10K / 5K Bare Dare 5K Nude Run Rotary Twilight 5K

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5 8 9 14 16 17 19 23 26 28 29 30 34 35 36 38 39 40 41 42 44 45 46 47 50 51 52 54

RUNNING TAMPA BAY DATE

EVENT/DISTANCE

CONTACT

LOCATION

SATURDAY JANUARY 10 TBA

NEW YEAR'S RUNS 10K AND 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

LARGO FL.

SUNDAY JANUARY 11 TBA

BRANDON 1/2 MARATHON & 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

BRANDO FL.

SATURDAY JANUARY 17 TBA

RUNNING OF THE BULLS 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

VALRICO FL.

SATURDAY JANUARY 24 TBA

CLEARWATER FESTIVAL 50K,26.2,13.1,10K 2 DAY EVENT

603-488-1186

CLEARWATER FL.

SATURDAY JANUARY 24 TBA

FREAKIN FREEZIN 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

LAKELAND FL.

SATURDAY JANUARY 24 TBA

KUNQUAT 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

DADE CITY FL.

SATURDAY JANUARY 31 TBA

COUPLES SHUFFLE 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

RTAMPA FL.

SATURDAY JANUARY 31 TBA

LIKE BACON 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

ST PETE FL.

SATURDAY JANUARY 31 TBA

TUNNEL TO TOWER 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

CLEARWATER FL.

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 6 TBA

GLOW IN THE PARK 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

DST PETE FL.

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 6 7:00 PM

TWILIGHT 5K

LEE EARLS leeeearls@gmail.com

COMMON GROUND PARK LAKELAND FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 7 TBA

BEST DAMM RACE 13.1 / 10K / 5K

bestdamnrace.com

SAFETY HARBOR FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 7 TBA

RUN FOR US 5K

WWW.RACEROSTER.COM

RTAMPA FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 7 TBA

TOUVH GRASS 10K / 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

LARGO FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 7 TBA

TUTUS AND TENNIS SHOES 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

TAMPA FL.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 8 8:00 AM

ST PETE DISTANCE CLASSIC 26.2,13.1,10K,5K

WWW.RACEROSTER.COM

DOWNTOWN ST.PETE FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14 TBA

HEARTS OF VALOR 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

AL LOPEZ PARK TAMPA FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14 TBA

TITAN TROT 5K

WWW.ACTIVE.COM

CLEARWATER FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14 TBA

USF SCRUB RUN 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

USF TAMPA FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14 TBA

YANKEE SPRING TO SPRING 5K

WWW.RACEROSTER.COM 813-673-3059

TAMPA FL.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 15 8:00 AM

ADVENTURE RUN 5 MILE ANF 5K

PAGE 47

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HONEYMOON ISLAND DUNEDIN FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 21 TBA

GASPARILLA DISTANCE CLASSIC 15K AND 5K

PAGE 26

WWW.RACEROSTER.COM

DOWNTOWN TAMPA FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 21 TBA

RACE TO CURE SARCOMA 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

GADSDEN PARK TAMPA FL.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 22 TBA

GASPARILLA DISTANCE CLASSIC HALF MARATHON AND 8K

WWW.RACEROSTER.COM

DOWNTOWN TAMPA FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 28 TBA

ARISE AND RUN 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

LARGO FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 28 TBA

THRIVE AND STRIVE 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

LAND O' LAKES FL.

SATURDAY MARCH 7 TBA

GREAT AMERICAN BACON 5K RUN

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

AL LOPEZ PARK TAMPA FL.

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4 RACEPLACE --

MISC.

January/February

Rock tape

12 LIVE BANDS | 120 KEGS OF BEER FINISHER MEDALS | TECHNICAL SHIRTS T O P 1 0 % H AT S | T W O D AY R U N N E R S E X P O

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RUNNING TAMPA BAY DATE

EVENT/DISTANCE

CONTACT

LOCATION

SATURDAY MARCH 7 TBA

PROMISE RUN 10K AND 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

LAKELAND FL.

SATURDAY MARCH 7 TBA

SAVAGE RACE 5 MILER

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

DADE CITY FL.

SATURDAY MARCH 7 7:00 PM

BELLEAIR SUNSET 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

BELLEAIR FL.

SUNDAY MARCH 8 TBA

ARMADILLO RUN 10K AND 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

OLDSMAR FL.

SATURDAY MARCH 14 8:00 AM

ROTARY RUNS THE BEACH .26 5K AND 1 MILE

PAGE 23

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

INDIAN ROCKS BEACH FL.

SATURDAY MARCH 21 8:30 AM

STOMP OUT HUMAN TRAFFICKING 5K AND 1 MILE

PAGE 41

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AL LOPEZ PARK TAMPA FL.

SATURDAY MARCH 28 7:00 AM

DRISCOLL'S STRAWBERRY CLASSIC 10K AND 5K

PAGE 51

WWW.TAMPABAYRUNNERS.C

TEMPLE TERRACE FL.

SATURDAY MARCH 28 7:00 AM

SHAMROCK DISTANCE CLASSIC 13.1/10K/5K

PAGE 30

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FORT DESOTO PARK DT. PETE FL.

SATURDAY APRIL 4 TBA

CROOM TRAIL 50M, 50K, 15 MILE FOOLS RUN

PAGE 16

WWW.TAMPARACES.COM

BROOKSVILLE FL.

SATURDAY APRIL 4 8:00 AM

TAMPA FIREFIGHTERS 5K

PAGE 17

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

TAMPA FL.

SUNDAY APRIL 12 8:00 AM

DARE TO GO BARE 5K AND 2 MILE FUN RUN

PAGE 44

813-949-1810

LAKE COMO COMMUNITY LUTZ FL.

SUNDAY APRIL 26 8:30 AM

BARE DARE 5K

PAGE 52

WWW.NUDE5K.COM

LAND O' LAKES FL.

SATURDAY MAY 2 8:00 AM

HOG JOG 5K

PAGE 50

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

DUNEDIN FL.

MISC.

RUNNING SW FLORIDA DATE

EVENT/DISTANCE

SATURDAY JANUARY 17 8:00 AM

HOLLYWOOD BEACH HALF MARATHON AND 5K

SATURDAY JANUARY 24 TBA

TOUR DE CAPE 5K

SATURDAY JANUARY 31 TBA

MANATEE RIVER 5 MILER STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 7 TBA

NAPLES DISTANCE CLASSIC 13.1 AND 5K

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14 TBA

VENICE HALF MARATHON & 5K

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 21 TBA

EDISON FESTIVAL OF LIGHT 5K

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 28 TBA

FORT MYERS HALF MARATHON AND 5K

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 28 TBA

SUNCOAST STARS STRIDE TO THRIVE 5K

SUNDAY MARCH 1 TBA

RIVERWALK HALF MARATHON & 5K

SUNDAY MARCH 8 TBA

SARASOTA SUNCOAST HALF MARATHON AND 5K

SATURDAY MARCH 21 TBA

SUNRISE HALF MARATHON & 5K

SATURDAY APRIL 18 TBA

NAPLES PARADISE COAST HALF MARATHON AND 5K

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CONTACT

LOCATION

WWW.ELITEEVENTS.COM

HOLLYWOOD FL.

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

CAPE CORAL FL.

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

PALMETTO FL.

PAGE 34

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NAPLES FL.

PAGE 42

WWW.ELITEEVENTS.COM

LEGACY PARK VENICE FL.

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

FORT MYERS FL

WWW.ELITEEVENTS.COM

FORT MYERS FL

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

SARASOTA FL.

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

BRADENTON FL.

PAGE 38

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SARASOTA FL.

PAGE 39

WWW.ELITEEVENTS.COM

SUNRISE FL.

PAGE 40

WWW.ELITEEVENTS.COM

NORTH COLLIER REGIONAL PK NAPLES FL.

PAGE 35

PAGE 36

6 RACEPLACE --

MISC.

January/February

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RUNNING ORLANDO DATE

EVENT/DISTANCE

CONTACT

LOCATION

SATURDAY JANUARY 17 TBA

PARK AVE 5K

EMMI 407-896-1160

WINTER PARK FL.

SATURDAY JANUARY 31 TBA

ORLANDO MAGIC 5K FOR KIDS RUN

EMMI 407-896-1160

ORLANDO FL.

SATURDAY JANUARY 31 8:00 AM

ME STRONG 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

DELAND FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 7 TBA

DAYTONA BEACH 1/2 MARATHON 13.1 AND 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

DAYTONA BEACH FL.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 8 TBA

FIRST FLORIDA MARATHON 26.2 AND 13.1 MILES 10K AND 5K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

MELBOURNE FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14 7:30 AM

RUN FOR LOVE 4 MILER

EMMI 407-896-1160

WINTER PARK FL.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 15 TBA

LAKE APOPKA SCENIC 30K TRAIL RUN

CFT SOMMER SPORTS 352-394-1320

LAKE APPOKA FL

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 21 TBA

HOWEY IN THE HILLS 5K/10K/ 13.1 MILES

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

HOWEY IN THE HILLS FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 28 TBA

ORANGE BLOSSOM HALF MARATHON AND 5K

CFT SOMMER SPORTS 352-394-1320

FROSTPROOF FL.

SUNDAY MARCH 1 TBA

DISNEY PRINCESS HALF MARATHON WEEKEND EVENTS

EMMI 407-896-1160

ORLANDO FL.

SUNDAY MARCH 1 TBA

MARATHON OF TREASURE COAST 26.2 AND 13.1

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

STUART MEMORIAL PARK STUART FL.

SATURDAY MARCH 7 TBA

LSSC SHAMROCK SHUFFLE 5K/10K

CFT SOMMER SPORTS 352-394-1320

CLERMONT FL.

SATURDAY MARCH 14 8:00 AM

SMILE MILE

EMMI 407-896-1160

ORLANDO FL.

SATURDAY MARCH 28 7:30 AM

WINTER PARK ROAD RACE 10K AND 2 MILER

EMMI 407-896-1160

WINTER PARK FL.

THURSDAY APRIL 30 6:45 PM

ADVENT HEALTH CORPORATE 5K

EMMI 407-896-1160

ORLANDO FL.

PAGE 28

PAGE 46

MISC.

FEB 27 - 5K FEB 28 - 10K MAR 1 - HALF MARA

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RUNNING NORTH DATE

EVENT/DISTANCE

CONTACT

LOCATION

SATURDAY JANUARY 10 TBA

IQ FIBER WINTER BEACH RUN 10 MILER AND 5K

1ST PLACE SPORTS 904-731-3676

JACKSONVILLE BEACH FL.

SATURDAY JANUARY 10 TBA

PENSACOLA BEACH HALF MARATHON AND 10K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

PENSACOLA BEACH FL.

SATURDAY JANUARY 17 TBA

FTC MARATHON 26.2/13.1 MILES

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

HAWTHORNE FL.

SATURDAY JANUARY 17 TBA

OPERATION OCALA 65 MILE TRAIL RUN

INFO@GREENBERETFITNESS.

OCALA FL.

SATURDAY JANUARY 24 TBA

MATANZAS 5K

1ST PLACE SPORTS 904-731-3676

ST. AUGUSTINE FL.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 1 TBA

DONNA MARATHON AND 1/2 MAR. TO FINISH BREAST CANCER 26.2 / 13.1

1ST PLACE SPORTS 904-731-3676

JACKSONVILLE BEACH FL.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 8 TBA

TALLAHASSEE MARATHON 26.2 AND 13.1

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

TALLAHASSEE FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14 TBA

FLORIDA TRACK CLUB MICANOPY 5M / 10M

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

MICANOPT FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 21 TBA

FLORIDA RUN @ MANATEE SPRINGS STATE PARK 13.1/10K/5K TRAIL RUN

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

CHIEFLAND FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 21 8:30 AM

ORTEGA RIVER RUN 5 MILER

1ST PLACE SPORTS 904-731-3676

ST MARK'D CAMPUS JACKSONVILLE FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 28 TBA

BAY-TO-BREAKFAST 8K

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

PENSACOLA FL.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 28 TBA

MAD DASH HARVEST OF LIFE MINISTRIES 5K / 10K

FLEET FEET TALLAHASSEE FL.

TALLAHASSEE FL.

SATURDAY MARCH 7 8:00 AM

GATES RIVER RUN 15K AND 5K

1ST PLACE SPORTS 904-731-3676

JACKSONVILLE FL.

DATE

EVENT/DISTANCE

SATURDAY JANUARY 17 TBA

HOLLYWOOD BEACH BOARD WORK 1/2 MARATHON

SUNDAY JANUARY 25 TBA

MIAMI MARATHON AND HALF MARATHON

SATURDAY JANUARY 31 TBA

2026 KEEPER DAYS 5K

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 1 TBA

COCONUT CREEK 5K BUTTER FLY RUN

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 7 TBA

KIWANIS 5K FOR CIJ

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 7 TBA

RACE TO CURE SARCOMA 5K

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 8 TBA

LIVE LIKE BELLA SUPERHERO 5K

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 8 TBA

RUN THROUGH CENTRAL PARK 5K

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14 TBA

RUN FOR YOUR HEART 5K

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 14 TBA

USA WOMEN'S HALF MARATHON

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 15 8:00 AM

PUBLIX FORT LAUDERDALE A1A MAR

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 28 TBA

BRIDGE THE GAP 5K BLUE HERON BRIDGE RUN 5K

SUNDAY MARCH 1 TBA

305 HALF MARATHON 13.1 AND 5K

PAGE 5

MISC.

RUNNING SOUTH

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CONTACT

LOCATION

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

HOLLYWOOD BEACH FL.

LIFE TIME MIAMI

NMIAMI FL.

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

LIGHTHOUSE POINT FL.

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

COCONUT CREEKK FL.

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

POMPANO BEACHH FL.

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

FORT LAUDERDALE FL.

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

MIAMI FL.

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

PLANTATION FL.

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

STUART FL.

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

KEY WEST FL.

WWW.ACTIVE.COM

FORT LAUDERDALE FL.

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

RIVIERA BEACHH FL.

305mia@LTevents. zendesk.com

MIAMI FL.

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January/February

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APRIL 11, 2026

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January/February

Why Static Stretching Before Running Can Lead to Muscle Strains

Dr. Tommy Rhee

Runners are often told to stretch before a run, but static stretching—holding a stretch for an extended period—can actually increase the risk of muscle and tendon strains.

The key reason lies in the muscle spindle, a sensory receptor in muscles that detects changes in length and prevents overstretching.

The Role of the Muscle Spindle Muscle spindles act like built-in stretch sensors, triggering a reflex contraction when a muscle is stretched too quickly or too far. This protective mechanism, known as the stretch reflex, prevents excessive elongation and potential injury. However, when a runner performs static stretching before running, they may temporarily desensitize the muscle spindle’s protective response. This reduces the muscle’s ability to contract efficiently, increasing the risk of overstretching.

Why Static Stretching Can Lead to Strains When you stretch and hold a position for too long, the muscle spindle adapts, allowing the muscle to elongate beyond its natural pre-activation range. If you then transition into running—a high-impact, dynamic movement—the overstretched muscles and tendons lack the necessary stiffness and responsiveness, making them more prone to strains and microtears.

A Better Approach: Dynamic Warm-Ups Instead of static stretching, runners should focus on dynamic warm-ups like leg swings, high knees, and lunges. These movements gradually increase muscle length while keeping the spindle active, preparing the body for the demands of running.

By respecting the muscle spindle’s role, runners can avoid unnecessary strains and enhance performance, efficiency, and injury prevention. Save static stretching for post -run recovery, when muscles are warm and more pliable.

January/February

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BI-TRIATHLONS DATE

EVENT/DISTANCE

CONTACT

LOCATION

MISC.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 7 TBA

SUPER BOWL DUATHLON

CFT SOMMER SPORTS 352-394-1320

CLERMONT FL.

RUN 2 MILE BIKE 12 MILES RUN 2 MILES

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 15 TBA

CHILLY WILLY DUATHLON

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

FORT DESOTO PARK ST. PETE FL.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 22 8:00 AM

GIRO RIDE LIKE A PRO

DRC SPORTS WWW.DRCSPORTS.COM

DORAL FL.

SUNDAY MARCH 8 TBA

GREAT CLERMONT TRIATHLON

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

CLERMONT FL.

SPRINT DU, SPRINT OLYMPIC DU AND T AQUATHLON

SUNDAY MARCH 15 TBA

TREASURE COAST TRIATHLON

GAME ON1 Willie@GameOnRaceEvents.c

FORT PIERCE FL.

SPRINT, SPRINT OLYMPIC TRIATHLON RELAYS

SATURDAY MARCH 21 TBA

SPACECOAST TRIATHLON

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

COCOA BEACH FL.

SPRINT TRIATHLON SPRINT DUATHLON 5K RUN

SUNDAY MARCH 22 TBA

GRAN FONDO FLORIDA BIKE RIDE

SATURDAY MARCH 28 TBA

CLEAN AIR BIKE TOUR BIKE RIDES OF 14 MILES,25 MI. 48 MILES, 100 MILES

SATURDAY APRIL 11 TBA

ESCAPE FROM FORT DESOTO TRI

SUNDAY APRIL 12 TBA

BILL BONE OLYMPIC TRIATHLON

SUNDAY APRIL 12 TBA

RON JON COCOA BEACH TRI.

SATURDAY APRIL 25 TBA

PAGE 8

PAGE 19

SPRINT SUPER SPRINT DUATHLON CYCLING EVENT

WWW.GRANFONDO NATIONALSERIES.COM

DADE CITY FL.

DRC SPORTS WWW.DRCSPORTS.COM

WITHLACOOCHEE STATE TRAIL BROOKSVILLE FL.

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

FORT DESOTO PARK ST. PETE FL.

SWIM 1/4 MILE RUN 3.1 MILE BIKE 10 MILES

GAME ON !

Willie@GameOnRaceEvents.c

OKEEHEELEE PARK WEST PALM BEACH FL.

OLYMPIC DISTANCE SPRINT / DUATHLON RELAY TEAMS

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

COCOA BEACH FL.

TAMPA BAY KIDS TRIATHLON POOL SWIM

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

POOL SWIM

SUNDAY APRIL 26 TBA

ST ANTHONY'S TRIATHLON OLYMPIC DISTANCES

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

DOWNTOWN ST. PETE FL.

SUNDAY MAY 3 TBA

FINISH LINE TRIATHLON SPRINT DU - TRIATHLON INTERN. DU - TRIATHLON

SUNDAY MAY 17 TBA

DUNEDIN ROTARY TRIATHLON

SATURDAY MAY 23 TBA

CRYSTAL RIVER TRIATHLON

PAGE 14

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PAGE 29

WWW.RUNSIGNUP.COM

FORT DESOTO PARK ST PETE FL.

DRC SPORTS WWW.DRCSPORTS.COM

DUNEDIN FL.

DRC SPORTS WWW.DRCSPORTS.COM

FORT ISLAND BEACH CRYSTAL RIVER FL.

SPRINT TRIATHLON SPRINT DUATHLON RELAYS

SPRINT DISTANCES OLYMPIC DISTANCES RELAY TEAMS SPRINT TRIATHLON SPRINT DUATHLONS REYALS SPRINT TRIATHLON DUATHLON AQUABIKE SWIM 1/4 MILE BIKE 12 MILES RUN 3 MILES

RACEPLACE --

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January/February

R E G I S T E R N OW

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22

January/February

Be Part of something bigger.

Run the beach. Make a difference.

January/February

23

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Benefits of Pool Training for Open Water Swimmers by Coach Leo Open water swimmers face unique challenges that can be effectively addressed through pool training.

Incorporating interval workouts and drills from the pool into their routine enhances performance in open water environments.

Here’s how: 1. Improved Stamina and Speed: Pool workouts allow open water swimmers to focus on interval training that simulates race conditions.

By doing sprint training, swimming at high intensity followed by rest, swimmers can better prepare for the alternating efforts required in open water races.

2. Increased Skill Efficiency: Drills aimed at improving stroke mechanics and breathing techniques, sighting exercises are essential for open water swimmers. A strong and efficient stroke helps conserve energy, which is crucial for long-distance swims in unpredictable conditions.

3. Mental Toughness: Pool training builds mental resilience, helping swimmers endure discomfort and fatigue. With a coach on the pool deck pushing the athletes and keeping the accountable, this mental strength is invaluable in open water races, where adverse conditions can challenge even the most prepared athletes.

4. Conditioning for Various Distances: Open water races come in different distances, and a mixed training regimen equips swimmers to tackle everything from short sprints to long endurance events. This variability builds confidence and readiness for any race format.

By integrating these elements from pool training, open water swimmers can effectively prepare for the unique challenges they encounter in natural settings. Come visit Coach Leo at St Pete Beach Aquatics, get your one on one session today, get your personalized training workouts for a specific event.

5 stars reviews from swimmers I helped during the last 30 years Steve 37, Leo helped me get to the next level, after three private sessions aI became a faster swimmer.

Ashley 39, I did a one on one session with coach Leo and it was such a great experience and I learned so much.

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Why Overstretching Can Be Counterproductive for Runners

By Dr Tommy Rhee

Stretching has long been considered a staple of every runner’s routine. But more isn’t always better. In fact, overstretching can actually work against performance, resilience, and injury prevention.

Muscles and tendons are designed to store and release elastic energy—think of them as springs.

When tissues are overstretched, especially aggressively or for prolonged periods, that spring-like tension is reduced. The result?

Less power return with each stride, decreased running efficiency, and slower times.

Overstretching can also destabilize joints. Runners depend on controlled stiffness in the hips, knees, and ankles to absorb impact and transfer force. Excessive flexibility without adequate strength can create joint laxity, increasing the risk of tendinopathy, muscle strains, and overuse injuries.

Another overlooked issue is neuromuscular inhibition. Long static stretches before running can temporarily reduce muscle activation and reaction speed—exactly what runners don’t want when pushing off the ground thousands of times per run.

This doesn’t mean stretching is bad. The key is appropriate mobility. Runners should aim for functional range of motion, not extreme flexibility. Dynamic movement, light activation drills, and strength-based mobility help tissues stay elastic, responsive, and strong.

In running, efficiency beats excess. When it comes to stretching, doing just enough— rather than too much—keeps your stride powerful, your joints stable, and your body ready to perform.

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Top Winter Marathon In Florida flraceplace.com

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Florida road races Running on Sunshine!

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T R A I N B R I L L I A N T LY

January/February

“ Is that Diane B. “Is that Celia Dubey and her husband Joel wearing Wearing Boston Bill Sunglasses?

Boston Bill Sunglasses ? No wonder Celia is 2015 USAT No Wonder she placed first in her age Duathlon Masters Na�onal Champion andgroup femaleat Coast! overall winnerSpace and age group champion!”

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ELITE Events Schedule 2025/2026 Oct 18 Hollywood Beach Half Marathon & 5k

Oct 5 Naples Rocktoberfest Half Marathon & 5k

Nov 27 Naples Gobble Wobble Thanksgiving Half Marathon & 5k

Nov TBD Naples Fall Classic Half Marathon & 5k

Nov 27 Estero Thanksgiving 5K

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Dec 13 Sarasota Glow 5K

Dec 14 Sarasota Half Marathon & 5k

Jan 17 Hollywood Mar /Half Marathon & 5K

February 7 Naples Distance Classic Half Marathon & 5K

February 14 Venice Half Marathon & 5K

February 28 Fort Myers Half Marathon & 5K

March 8 Sarasota Suncoast Half Marathon & 5K

March 21 Sunrise Half Marathon & 5K

April 18 Naples Paradise Half Marathon & 5K 35

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What is USATF Course Certification?

USATF course certification means a road race course has been accurately measured using approved methods and meets national standards for distance. x x x

It guarantees the course is not short It allows times run on the course to be compared fairly with other races It is required for: o Personal bests to be considered legitimate o National rankings / American and world records

Without certification, a course distance might be off, making times unreliable.

What is a USATF Sanction?

A USATF sanction is official approval to hold the event itself.

When a race is sanctioned: x x x x

The event is recognized by USATF The race receives liability insurance Competition rules are enforced Performances are eligible for: o National and world records (if other requirements are met)

Sanctioning focuses on how the event is run, not how the course is measured.

Why do you need both?

To be fully recognized by USATF: x x

Certified course ĺ ensures the distance is accurate Sanctioned event ĺ ensures the competition is official and insured

For a performance to be: x x

Record-eligible / Fully ratified by USATF Nationally or internationally ranked

ඪ The race must be both USATF-certified and USATF-sanctioned For More Information Contact: Bill Strack 813-505-1405 -- Email Address: trcracemgmt@gmail.com

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MARATHON • HALF MARATHON • 10K • 5K • VIRTUAL | SUN., FEBRUARY 8, 2026

H Gorgeous Waterfront Courses Over Tampa Bay H Safe, Accurately Measured USATF Certified Courses H Colorful Race Shirts H Unique Medal for All Finishers H Free Race Photos H Music to Motivate You H Multiple Aid Stations with Water & Gatorade H Pacers for Marathon & Half Marathon H Overall, Master, Grand Master & AG Awards H Optional “No Worries” Refund Policy H Walkers Welcome!

Sign Up Early and Save: www.StPetersburgDistanceClassic.com January/February

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H Great Post-Race Party: Hot Pasta, Cold Beer, Pastries & Fruit, Live Music

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Aches & Pains After A Run Chris Arrigo MS, ATC, PT

Ouch! You wake up Sunday morning after your usual Saturday run and your left heel is killing you. You take a few steps and feel a lightning bolt flash through your heel. Or, you are out for your run and your knee progressively gets more and more sore so you start to walk and a sharp pain just below your kneecap virtually stops you in your tracks.

When a sudden unexpected ache or pain during or after a run occurs, you may be asking, “What do I do now?” flraceplace.com

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Unfortunately, at some point during most runners lives, we all will get some sort of ailment which will slow down – or even stop – our training. The most important thing to realize is if you listen to your body, it will give you early warning signs that something is not right. In general, it is important to stop running and rest your body if: • • • • •

Pain affects your natural running form, causing you to limp Discomfort increases during your run It is a sharp, localized pain There is obvious swelling to the sore area You have pain for longer than 7 days

Initial treatment to your injured area is RICE: R – Rest, which means stop running! Take a couple days off and re-assess how you feel.

I – Ice your sore area. Ice is the most natural anti-inflammatory around and is easy to use on specific areas of the body. Ice massage is effective and easy. Take a paper or styrofoam cup and freeze water in it. Tear off the cup’s lip and rub the ice over the injured area for 7 minutes. Repeat this two to three times daily.

C – Compression for the injured area. Wrap the area tight enough for support, but not so tight it will cut off blood flow. Compression socks work great for injuries in the lower leg, ankle, and foot.

E – Elevation of the injured area. Try to keep your injured area off the floor, and ideally higher than the level of your heart. This helps improve blood flow and assists to minimize swelling.

When an injury occurs, and the above self-treatment does not provide complete relief, it is important that you get medical advice from a trained medical professional.

Fortunately, Advanced Rehabilitation has physical therapists and athletic trainers available to help guide you regarding your medical options and even streamline the process for you to see a physician when necessary. In our South Tampa office we have clinicians, who are runners available to provide a quick 10-minute injury screenings to review your symptoms, answer your questions, and assist you with advice for your next steps on the road to recovery - in other words, peace of mind.

Following the rules above should help you to get back on the road, track, trail, or treadmill sooner rather than later if you suffer a problem or injury. Good luck and happy training!

Chris Arrigo MS, ATC, PT Advanced Rehabilitation carrigo@advancedrehab.us (813)250-1208 January/February

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17th ANNUAL

CLOTHING-OPTIONAL RUN

SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2026 - 8:30 AM LAND O'LAKES, FLORIDA REGISTER: NUDE5K.COM flraceplace.com

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January/February

Yoga and Running

T

By Pete Williams

here’s not much crossover between avid runners and yoga practitioners, but there should be. Running has many benefits, but unless you’re one of the rare people who run with perfect posture and form, you’re likely creating muscle imbalances, along with tight hips and hamstrings.

Actually, many people have those ailments who never run.

Our desk-based, sedentary culture of sitting causes people to end up with tight hips and hamstrings, which leads to pain and longterm ailments, including a loss of mobility and stability in old age. That, in turn, can make you more likely to fall and suffer significant injuries.

Enter yoga, which has been practiced for centuries but has enjoyed a resurgence over the last two decades. The rates of yoga participation in the United States grew from 5 percent in 2002 to 17 percent in 2022. People recognize yoga’s benefits in reducing stress, improving sleep, decreasing anxiety, and promoting overall well-being.

It wasn’t that long ago that men avoided yoga – John Capouya wrote a best-selling book “Real Men Do Yoga” in 2003 – but these days you’ll find many guys, especially professional athletes, enjoying the benefits of yoga. Ladies still account for the majority of yoga class participants, but it’s no longer uncommon to take a yoga class where men make up 30 to 40 percent of yogis.

Many runners stretch before and after a workout, but few consider yoga classes, whether in-person or online, as part of their routine. Yoga prevents injuries by improving flexibility and mobility, addressing muscle imbalances, and strengthening stabilizer muscles to prevent common running injuries.

Yoga increases flexibility by stretching and loosening muscles, especially the hamstrings, quads, and hip flexors, which can become tight from running. Yoga builds strength in the core, upper body, and glutes, which can improve running form, posture, and overall efficiency.

Yoga’s focus on balance improves coordination, a crucial skill for running. It boosts post-run recovery by increasing blood flow to muscles, relieving tension, and boosting energy levels.

Yoga also helps athletes focus on breathing, which can help maintain focus and a steady rhythm during a run. The practice of holding poses and focusing on breath helps build mental clarity

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and resilience, which can be applied to tough parts of a run. Yoga also helps runners become more attuned to their body’s signals, allowing them to better understand their physical state and avoid overexertion.

Here are three terrific yoga poses for runners: Low Lunge – This pose targets the hip flexors in the front of your back leg, which become tight from the repetitive forward motion of running. Start in a lunge position with your front knee directly over your ankle and your back knee lowered to the ground. Gently push your hips forward to deepen the stretch. You can place your hands on the floor or lift them overhead.

Figure Four/Reclined Pigeon Stretch – This targets the outer hips and glutes while lying on your back. Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Cross your right ankle over your left knee. Gently pull your left thigh toward your chest to feel the stretch in the right outer hip and glute.

Butterfly Stretch – This seated pose opens the inner thighs and groin, which runners often neglect. Sit on the floor with a tall spine and the soles of your feet together, letting your knees fall outward. Gently lean forward from your hips for a deeper stretch. Remember to warm up before static stretches (perhaps with some dynamic leg swings or cat/cow poses) and focus on slow, deep breathing while holding each pose for at least 10 seconds.

Yoga’s growing popularity has inspired numerous variations, including “hot yoga” in sauna-like temperatures, beach yoga, destination yoga retreats, yoga cruises, and yoga with cats. There’s even nude yoga offered at clothing-optional resorts. The Caliente Resort in Land O’Lakes, Florida, site of the 17th annual Caliente Bare Dare 5K on Sunday, April 26, offers a clothing-optional yoga class at 10 a.m. on Sunday mornings. Runners can enjoy the unique fitness doubleheader of running the Caliente Bare Dare 5K, which begins at 8:30, and then, after a quick shower, hitting the yoga class.

Pete Williams is an endurance athlete and NASM-certified personal trainer who writes about fitness and performance living at ToLiveLean.com.

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FREE Gift with any SAUCONY purchase from Feet First during during the promo dates

FEBRUARY 13th- 28th

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FLORIDA’S LARGEST DUATHLON

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Duathlon 2 wants you

Sunday February WK Run 5K Bike 10 Miles Run 5K Plus This Year Super Sprint Distance

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