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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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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
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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
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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
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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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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
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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
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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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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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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
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R E G I S T E R N OW
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Be Part of something bigger. Run the beach. Make a difference. January/February
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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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January/February
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. January/February
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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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January/February
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
Chilly Willy
Duathlon 2 wants you
Sunday February WK Run 5K Bike 10 Miles Run 5K Plus This Year Super Sprint Distance
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