Race Gasparilla

RACE GASPARILLA

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION OF THE TAMPA BAY TIMES

Fruit and Nut Muesli aver Yogurt with Blueberries Source: Publlx Aprons4t

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Publix is a proud supporter of fun, healthy activities such as running the Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic. We'll provide the fuel for your fitness journey-and we'll be with you every step of the way.

Our recipe for Fruit and Nut Muesli over Yogurt with Blueberries is a tasty way to start your race day with protein and other nutrients to help get you to the finish line.

Tips for Race Day • Do a warm-up.

• Start slowly and maintain a steady paoe.

• Stay hydrated-always.

• Stretch after you finish.

• Enjoy a post-race protein snack.

Register for the Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic, February 20-21, by picking up an entJy form at your neighborhood Publix or

by visiting publix.com/RunGasparilla.

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| Sunday, February 7, 2016 | Tampa Bay Times

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from across Florida, from across the country and from other countries,” said Gasparilla Distance Classic Executive Director Susan Harmeling. “This year, races are geared to people of all ages and abilities.” Harmeling said.

“Many of our participants run or walk only one event throughout the year … Gasparilla. It’s fun, exciting and, because of the different events, offers a distance for every member of the family – even little ones in strollers.”

It is reaching out to everyone, not just the prizewinners, that makes this weekend a favorite for the people of Tampa Bay and beyond. Runner’s World Bucket List gave it the No. 4 spot among 10 top destination half-marathons. Last year’s race received medal-worthy praise from serialrunner.com for its freebies, views and perfect running weather.

Gasparilla pirates may want to hide their treasure. A fit group of men and women are using sneakers and sweat to claim some booty of their own.

Runners from across the country, along with thousands of local folks, will fill the streets of downtown Tampa Feb. 20-21 as part of the Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic, an event that is as entertaining as it is motivating.

READY TO RUN Much like the pirate-fest, the Gasparilla Classic grows more popular and bigger every year. The Classic started in 1978 as a way to raise funds for the Tampa Girls Club. It consisted of two races, a 15K and a 5K. And raise funds it did.

Through the city’s support and volunteers, $17,500 was presented to the Tampa Girls Club. Some of those early leaders are still involved.

Impressive, yes, but just the beginning.

Proceeds have resulted in total donations of nearly $5 million to

youth organizations run by charities and area programs that support running initiatives. In 2015, $311,215 was given to local charities and dozens of community groups, including Boys & Girls Club of Tampa, Girls Inc. of Pinellas, and Friends of Tampa Recreation. More than 31,000 runners participated last year, and it drew 80,000 spectators.

The weekend features five races for individuals and teams.

For die-hard runners, Michelob Ultra offers challenges for those participating in multiple races Saturday and Sunday, and there is a USAA Military Challenge for active, former and retired military, which last year accounted for 2,535 runners. On Feb. 13, children ages 2-10 can join the Publix Too Good For Drugs Jr. Gasparilla Distance Classic at Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park and run distances from 30 yards to 1 mile.

Itching to participate? There’s no need to wait until 2017. While registration is closed for the Michelob Ultra Challenges; the 15K, 5K, Half Marathon and 8K are still open.

With races for every level, there’s no need to go from the couch to a 15K. Spectators and volunteers are needed, too, and everyone can come to the News Channel 8 On Your Side Health & Fitness Expo at the Tampa Convention Center. Admission is free.

RUN TAMPA BAY, RUN… WHAT

Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic

WHEN

Feb. 20 – 21, 2016

WHERE

Downtown Tampa

RACES

5K, 8K, 15K and Half Marathon plus a Jr. Classic for the kids (Feb. 13)

WHY

To raise funds for charitable youth organizations and local running programs

WHAT TO EXPECT

More than 30,000 participants racing along scenic Bayshore Boulevard with an incredible view of Tampa Bay

INFORMATION

tampabayrun.com or 813-254-7866

“Each year, it brings thousands of folks together from across Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Times | Sunday, February 7, 2016 |

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Q: HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN ASSOCIATED WITH THE EVENT?

Q&A

with Susan Harmeling, Executive Director of the Gasparilla Distance Classic Association Q: WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF THIS RACE?

Wayne Papy

In 1977, the Tampa Girls Club approached Tampa Mayor Bill Poe about staging a running event to raise funds. Mayor Poe picked up the phone and called the Recreation Department Director, Dave Barksdale, and said, “Do whatever it takes to make this happen.”

Mr. Barksdale called Recreation Department Athletics Director, Wayne Papy. (Wayne remains by my side to this day and is intricately involved with race operations.)

The first race, which consisted of a 15K and a 5K, was held in February 1978, and made possible through a partnership with the City of Tampa and a volunteer board of directors. $17,500 was raised for the Tampa Girls Club.

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| Sunday, February 7, 2016 | Tampa Bay Times

This will be my 24th year.

Prior to Gasparilla, I was with the City of Tampa as an Event Coordinator. One of the first events that I coordinated was Gasparilla’s Expo at Curtis Hixon Convention Center. That’s how I became acquainted with the race.

I love what I do. My passion remains strong. But I’m very mindful of the fact that without the support of our sponsors, the City of Tampa, our runners, Gasparilla’s volunteer Board of Directors, Organizing Committee, charities and our very small staff, I wouldn’t be able to do what I do – we wouldn’t be able to do what we do.

Q: HOW MUCH MONEY WAS RAISED FOR CHARITY LAST YEAR? A total of $311,000 was donated to charities supported by the Gasparilla Distance Classic Association. The event was created to raise funds for charity. This remains our focus.

Q: WHAT IS IT ABOUT THE CLASSIC THAT MAKES IT SO POPULAR? Many of our participants run or walk only one event throughout the year – Gasparilla. It is a Tampa Bay tradition. The weekend offers an event and distance for everyone, regardless of age and/or fitness level. The events are recognized nationally and internationally. All of the distances have both a competitive and recreational component.

Q: HOW MUCH PRIZE CASH IS AWARDED? We offer a $10,000 Local Prize Purse in the 15K and Half Marathon and, traditionally, a $30,000 American-only prize in the Half Marathon. Because the 2016 Olympic Marathon Trials will be held the weekend before this year’s race, the American-only purse will not be offered. It will pick back up in 2017.

Q: HOW DID THE DIFFERENT RACES EVOLVE? The event originated as a 15K and 5K. The 5K was more of a fun run. Over the years, we’ve added the Half Marathon and 8K to the weekend and all are competitive, but have a recreational component, too.

Q: WHERE ARE THE BEST SPOTS TO WATCH? Because all of the distances are run on Bayshore Boulevard, that’s the best place to be.

Q: WHAT IS TAMPA LIKE DURING THE MAIN RACE? From the early morning hours when we’re setting up, there’s an air of urgency and excitement that is felt by all.

It’s different for everyone, but when the gun goes off, there’s an adrenalin rush that is amazing.

Q: WHAT ARE THE MISCONCEPTIONS? Because of road closures and traffic, some see the events as a nuisance. We do our best to be mindful of how the events impact those who live around and along the route.

Q: WHAT DOES THIS COMMUNITY EVENT OFFER FOR NON-RUNNERS? That would be the Expo and the opportunity to come out on race morning and cheer for the runners; you won’t find a more appreciative group. They thrive on the support that they receive from our Aid Station volunteers and spectators.

Q: DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE EVENT? I tear up before the start of every event. There’s an instant rush ... I drive the lead vehicle, and as I’m leading the fastest of the runners back to the finish line, I’m able to see all of the participants in each of the events as they head out along Bayshore Boulevard.

It’s amazing to see and know that these are the lives that we are able to touch, to make a difference in each of their lives, to give them the opportunity to reach their goals (whatever they might be) and make memories.

It’s an overwhelming and amazing feeling.

Tampa Bay Times | Sunday, February 7, 2016 |

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RACE DAY TIPS New to running events? These tips from Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic Association Executive Director Susan Harmeling and Women’s Running will help you perform and keep you from annoying other runners before, during and after the race.

• Some runners think that eating big the night before will give them extra energy. Eat a healthy, not heavy, meal the evening before the race.

• Don’t fret if you can’t sleep the night before the race. Harmeling said race day excitement will carry you through, as long as you sleep well most of the time. “No partying, though!” she added.

• Race day is not the time to try new shoes and clothing.

No matter how performance-minded the purchase, stick with clothing and shoes that you’ve trained in and find comfortable.

• Arrive early. Leave plenty of time for traffic, parking, packet pickup, grabbing some water and standing in the portable toilet line. And never cut in line for the portable toilet. Runners try to support each other, but jumping ahead in that line will make people angry. If you are afraid you’ll miss the start, let people know and ask if you can move ahead.

• Do not talk during The Star Spangled Banner.

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| Sunday, February 7, 2016 | Tampa Bay Times

• Your start corral is based on your projected finish time and it’s basic courtesy to start with people who have a similar pace.

Once you are in the start area, don’t let your head beat you up; be kind to yourself, Harmeling said. Enjoy the energy and all that’s going on around you.

• Don’t start too fast. Take it slow and build up to a comfortable pace.

• If you have to take photos during the race, be careful. Get out and stay out of the way of other runners.

• Women’s Running said that If you have to spit while on the course, look for an empty area along the sideline and be careful that you don’t hit other runners or spectators.

• Take advantage of water stations.

Women’s Running suggests that if you don’t plan to grab a cup, run down the middle.

If you plan to stop, move completely out of the station and slow to a walk.

Be extra cautious in these areas because they get congested and runners can trip over one another.

• Don’t overindulge in the secure zone. You aren’t the only one who needs the post-race goodies to get your salt and electrolyte levels back up. Take only one of each item offered.

People behind you need these things, too.

• Support each other. Give runners you’re passing a word or two of support. If you can’t talk, pass in silence or give them a thumbs-up.

• Don’t stop as soon as you cross the finish line. Remember, other runners are running right behind you. If you need medical assistance, try to step to the side and wave down a volunteer.

• Only pass on the left and move to the right when you slow down.

• Thank the volunteers, Harmeling said. They work hard to make your experience a good one and you need to thank them.

Tampa Bay Times | Sunday, February 7, 2016 |

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The Challenges

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Michelob Ultra Lime Cactus Challenge

USAA Military Division

Active, retired or former military members can participate in this division in any one of the Saturday and Sunday races, and run for awards in six categories.

A two-day, two-race challenge: the 15K on Saturday and the 8K on Sunday.

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Half Marathon

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Offers challenges to teams in each of the Saturday and Sunday races.

SUNDAY, FEB. 21, 2016 START TIME: 6:00 A.M.

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SATURDAY, FEB. 20, 2016

Race lineup based on projected run times, with seeded men and women in the front and runners with slower anticipated times following.

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MAIN RACE: 9:15 -10 A.M. STROLLER ROLL START: 10:15 A.M. WALK: 10:30 A.M.

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Employs a wave start, with the most accomplished men and women starting and others following in sections based on finish time.

Race morning includes a 5K Walk and a 5K Stroller Roll.

| Sunday, February 7, 2016 | Tampa Bay Times

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LATE REGISTRATION AND PACKET PICKUPS TAKE PLACE HERE.

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GTE Financial Corporate & Open Team Challenge

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Tampa Convention Center Friday, Feb. 19, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 20, 6 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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Travels a similar route as the 15K but turns around at Rome. West on Brorein, south down Bayshore, turns around at Rome, and north on Bayshore to Tarpon Dock.

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The course travels west on Brorein to Bayshore Boulevard, goes south to Gandy Boulevard, takes a right along Gandy for a short length, and then returns along Bayshore, finishing at Tarpon Dock, located between Beach Place and Hyde Park Place.

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START LOCATION: BROREIN AND FRANKLIN STREETS.

Half Marathon Mile Markers

Free fitness and health event that is open to the public. See the latest in running gear and enjoy activities.

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Seeded athletes and wheelchair participants front the race, followed by other runners, who line up according to their projected finish times.

Runners perform in three races over two days: the 15K and 5K on Saturday, and the Half Marathon on Sunday.

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Michelob Ultra Amber Challenge

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Anyone who wants to form a team can run for prizes in this challenge.

Those who don’t have a team can join and will be eligible to win as the team with the most participants. The winning team members receive a complimentary Ferman Oil Change Certificate.

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Ferman Automotive Chevy Cruzin’ Krewe Challenge

For runners willing to put in 30 miles in four races: the 15K and 5K on Saturday, and Half Marathon and 8K on Sunday.

8K Mile Markers S . Willow Ave.

Michelob Ultra Challenge

Brorein St.

W. Platt St.

S . Rom e Ave.

Runners who take on more than one race or run as a team have a chance to earn special premiums. Some challenges offer more booty for those who make it through.

LEGEND

This event takes place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday in Cotanchobee Park (located behind the Amalie Arena). It includes awards presentations, live music, door prizes and more. Presentation of the awards is at 11 a.m. for the races completed that day.

15K – Top 5 Overall Male & Female, Top 5 Local Prize Purse Winners, Top Male & Female Masters, Top Male & Female Grand Masters, Wheelchair Division Awards, USAA Military Division, GTE Financial 15K Corporate Championships – Team Awards are announced 5K – Top 5 Overall Male & Female, Top Male & Female Masters, Top Male & Female Grand Masters, USAA Military Division, GTE Financial 5K Corporate Championships – Team Awards are announced Half-Marathon – Top 5 Overall Male & Female, Top 5 American Male & Female, Top Male & Female Masters, Top Male & Female Grand Masters, USAA Military Division, GTE Financial Half Marathon Corporate Team Challenge, GTE Financial Half Marathon Open Team Challenge – Team Awards are announced 8K – Top 5 Overall Male & Female, Top 5 American Male & Female, Top Male & Female Masters, Top Male & Female Grand Masters, USAA Military Division, GTE Financial 8K Corporate Team Challenge – Team Awards are announced

Travels from the start down Platt Street to Plant Avenue, enters Davis Island and skirts around the eastern edge from Davis, to Arbor, to Columbia Drive, to Channel Drive (via Barbados Ave.), then along the Davis Trail (S. Davis).

Veers north at the roundabout toward West Davis, then East Davis, and off the Island to Bayshore, and then moves south along Bayshore to Gandy, turns around and heads to the Tarpon Dock Finish Line.

8K

SUNDAY, FEB. 21, 2016 START TIME: 9:30 A.M.

Late arrivals will not be permitted to run.

Seeded runners start at the front of the race, with other runners behind the seeded runners.

START LOCATION: BAYSHORE BOULEVARD & VERNE STREET Travels south on Bayshore, turns around at West Stoval Street, and heads north to Tarpon Dock Finish Line.

Tampa Bay Times | Sunday, February 7, 2016 |

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Half Marathon Course

Friday, Feb. 19, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 20, 6 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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SUNDAY, FEB. 21, 2016 START TIME: 6:00 A.M.

W. Villa Rosa Park

H a w t h o r n e R d.

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Race lineup based on projected run times, with seeded men and women in the front and runners with slower anticipated times following.

START LOCATION: PLATT STREET AND LITTLE BAYSHORE BLVD.

Q105 Post-race Celebration This event takes place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday in Cotanchobee Park (located behind the Amalie Arena). It includes awards presentations, live music, door prizes and more. Presentation of the awards is at 11 a.m. for the races completed that day.

15K – Top 5 Overall Male & Female, Top 5 Local Prize Purse Winners, Top Male & Female Masters, Top Male & Female Grand Masters, Wheelchair Division Awards, USAA Military Division, GTE Financial 15K Corporate Championships – Team Awards are announced 5K – Top 5 Overall Male & Female, Top Male & Female Masters, Top Male & Female Grand Masters, USAA Military Division, GTE Financial 5K Corporate Championships – Team Awards are announced Half-Marathon – Top 5 Overall Male & Female, Top 5 American Male & Female, Top Male & Female Masters, Top Male & Female Grand Masters, USAA Military Division, GTE Financial Half Marathon Corporate Team Challenge, GTE Financial Half Marathon Open Team Challenge – Team Awards are announced 8K – Top 5 Overall Male & Female, Top 5 American Male & Female, Top Male & Female Masters, Top Male & Female Grand Masters, USAA Military Division, GTE Financial 8K Corporate Team Challenge – Team Awards are announced

Travels from the start down Platt Street to Plant Avenue, enters Davis Island and skirts around the eastern edge from Davis, to Arbor, to Columbia Drive, to Channel Drive (via Barbados Ave.), then along the Davis Trail (S. Davis).

Veers north at the roundabout toward West Davis, then East Davis, and off the Island to Bayshore, and then moves south along Bayshore to Gandy, turns around and heads to the Tarpon Dock Finish Line.

8K

SUNDAY, FEB. 21, 2016 START TIME: 9:30 A.M.

Late arrivals will not be permitted to run.

Seeded runners start at the front of the race, with other runners behind the seeded runners.

START LOCATION: BAYSHORE BOULEVARD & VERNE STREET Travels south on Bayshore, turns around at West Stoval Street, and heads north to Tarpon Dock Finish Line.

Tampa Bay Times | Sunday, February 7, 2016 |

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Annual dash supports community A lesser-known aspect of the Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic is just how much it gives back to its Tampa Bay community.

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his support takes place throughout the year and much of it is directed toward efforts that help our youth.

“Following each race and after all of the event costs are taken care of, we carry over a small portion for the next year and contribute the remaining dollars,” said Gasparilla Distance Classic Association Executive Director Susan Harmeling.

“(Last year) a total of $311,000 was donated to charities.”

The donated money, raised through race entry fees, sponsor dollars and Expo sales, is distributed to local nonprofit organizations, clubs and support organizations.

The biggest chunk goes to the Classics’ “Heritage” organizations, including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay and Friends of Tampa Recreation.

The event was created to raise funds for charity. Thirty-nine years later, this remains our focus – Gasparilla Distance Classic Association Executive Director Susan Harmeling

Another 37 nonprofit organizations, school teams, and running and service clubs received amounts from $750 to $2,500. Groups receiving these mini-grants, which totaled more than $52,000, included police and firefighter support groups, student academic success programs, athletic teams and youth development initiatives. Many of the recipient groups support the Classic, too, by providing volunteers for the events.

The online registration process also allows people to donate to their choice of eight different charities. Joy FM’s Team Freedom, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Metropolitan Ministries, Pediatric Cancer Foundation, Richard’s Run for Life, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, and Wounded Warrior Project together raised over $5,000 through registration giving.

The Mason Dixon Christmas Fund, RICH House, Florida Blue Kids Running Program and Publix Too Good for Drugs Jr. Gasparilla Classic together received another $33,000.

“We don’t mandate how the funds are spent, but all go toward each organization’s purpose,” Harmeling said.

“For example, in the past, the Friends of Tampa

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| Sunday, February 7, 2016 | Tampa Bay Times

Recreation has utilized our dollars for summer program scholarships.”

Harmeling said giving sits at the heart of the Classic’s mission. It was formed as a way to raise money for the Tampa Girls Club, and today’s gifts continue the original purpose of the first two races held in 1978: raising money to help the kids. Gasparilla Distance Classic funds, she said, “reach and touch the lives of boys and girls throughout the Tampa Bay community.”

“The event was created to raise funds for charity,” the executive director said.

“Thirty-nine years later, this remains our focus.”

Are you sitting the race out this year

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Tampa Bay Times | Sunday, February 7, 2016 |

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GASPARILLA CLASSIC 2015

BY THE NUMBERS

31,002

THE NUMBER OF RUNNERS (5,922 IN THE 15K, 14,121 IN THE 5K)

The race, not just the finish line, is the destination The Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic Half Marathon got a high-five last summer when it made the Runner’s World “Bucket List: 10 Destination Half Marathons.”

6,307

IN THE HALF MARATHON, 4,652 IN THE 8K

50,000

APPROXIMATE

SATURDAY SPECTATORS

30,000 APPROXIMATE

SUNDAY SPECTATORS

$311,000 AMOUNT DONATED TO

LOCAL CHARITIES

$10,000

LOCAL PRIZE PURSE IN

15K AND HALF MARATHON

The popular “bucket lists” compiled by Runner’s World editors have addressed races for wine lovers, runs near national parks, wacky food races, big city marathons and more.

$30,000

AMERICAN-ONLY PRIZE PURSE (NOT AWARDED IN 2016)

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| Sunday, February 7, 2016 | Tampa Bay Times

The Gasparilla Classic took the No. 4 position in the 10 Destination Half Marathons list, which was published May 14, 2015. It included some playful touristy spots and highly scenic locations.

Gasparilla Distance Classic Association Executive Director Susan Harmeling said getting the designation brings “a bit of validation” to what she and many local people have recognized for years.

“I’ve been to the Gasparilla race about a dozen times over the years,” wrote Bart Yasso, Chief Running Officer of Runner’s World and author of My Life On the Run. “It is quite simply a runner’s dream weekend, with four races to choose from. You can run one of them, or if you have the fitness level, run all four.”

“We and the Tampa Bay community know that the Publix Gasparilla Half Marathon is awesome and well-produced,” she said.

“Now, the Runner’s World national/international audience knows, too!”

Others making the list: • Star Wars Half Marathon at the Disneyland Resort, California • Bermuda Half Marathon • Key West Half Marathon • Steamboat Springs Half Marathon, Colorado • Napa to Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon, California • Kauai Half Marathon, Hawaii • Bar Harbor Half Marathon, Maine • Zooma Cape Cod Half Marathon, Massachusetts ‘ • Rock n’ Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon, Nevada

Clothes

MAKE THE RUNNER, TOO

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erious runners recognize that good running attire plays a role in performance.

They pay attention to what they are wearing from the toes up. Even in winter, one of the most important aspects of running in Tampa Bay is wearing clothing that helps keep you cool.

Under Armour products are available at numerous stores in the Tampa Bay area, including Finish Line, The Sports Authority, Under Armour Factory House, Clever Training and Nordstrom. Items can be purchased through the UA.com site.

Under Armour makes a wide variety of shoes, clothing and headwear for men, women and young runners. For men and women, this includes the CoolSwitch line.

CoolSwitch products feature a moisture transport system designed to keep athletes cool, dry and light.

CoolSwitch is made of super-light HeatGear® fabric and has a special coating that pulls heat away from the skin so athletes can perform longer and in more comfort.

Men’s CoolSwitch Run Tee Price: $39.99 Women’s CoolSwitch Short Sleeve Tee Price: $34.99

Tampa Bay Times | Sunday, February 7, 2016 |

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Kids race toward healthy lifestyle Adults finishing Sunday’s Half Marathon may find themselves humbled by a wave of pint-sized rockets.

As part of Florida Blue’s Kids Running Program, teams of trained runners from Tampa Parks and Recreation Department programs will run the last 2 miles of the event. serious health issues at a young age, including diabetes, liver disease, high blood pressure, early puberty, asthma, eating and sleep disorders and skin infections.

The six-week Florida Blue Kids Running Program introduces elementaryaged children to aspects of fitness as it trains them on the importance of healthy living and safe running. At the end of the program, participants run through the last 2 miles of the Half Marathon.

The program encourages kids to embrace a healthy lifestyle. National studies show that American children are increasingly becoming overweight. Obese children and teens run a greater risk of developing

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| Sunday, February 7, 2016 | Tampa Bay Times

Too often, children fill their spare time with sedentary habits and unhealthy eating.

Even those who are not overweight benefit from physical activity.

Studies show the benefits of moderate to strenuous exercise, even as little as 15 minutes a day over several days a week, go beyond physical strength and overall mental well-being. There is growing evidence of a positive link between an active lifestyle and better concentration and higher academic performance.

The Florida Blue Running Program is a motivational, educational program

designed to pull children off the couch and get them outside and engaged in heathy activities. The focus isn’t just on footwork. Presentations focus on proper eating, setting fitness and life goals, preparing for exercise, the importance of hydration and cautions on overdoing. They learn how to set and reach personal goals and help others reach theirs.

They also get ready to race.

Finally, at Sunday’s Publix Gasparilla Distance Half Marathon, they will put what they’ve learned into action.

First, they’ll cheer the other runners, then they will feel for themselves the excitement and energy that washes over Bayshore Boulevard when they run the last 2 miles of the race.

Of course, the ultimate goal of the Florida Blue Kids Running Program is long term. The hope is that rather than falling into the trap of inactivity, these kids will make a dash toward lifelong fitness.

EatingHealthy Greek Salad - Chicken Pita Pizza | SERVES 4 INGREDIENTS

PREP

• Preheat oven to 400°F. • Shred chicken (breast only, about 2 cups) • Chop tomato, cucumber (about 1 cup each) and pepperoncini.

STEPS

1. Coat flatbread on both sides with cooking spray; place on a baking sheet and bake 4–5 minutes or until crispy. Let cool.

2. Microwave chicken in a microwave-safe dish 3–4 minutes or until hot.

3. Spread 2 tablespoons hummus on each flatbread; divide chicken, lettuce, tomato and cucumber between each flatbread and top. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon pepperoncini and feta. Squeeze lemon juice over top of each flatbread. Serve.

Friday, Feb. 19 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Tampa Convention Center’s East Hall

1 deli rotisserie chicken 1 medium tomato, coarsely chopped 1/2 European cucumber, coarsely chopped 1/4 cup sliced pepperoncini, finely chopped 4 each Italian lite flat-out flatbread Cooking spray 1/2 cup plain (or olive) hummus 4 cups lettuce shreds, divided 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, divided Juice of 1 lemon, divided

Saturday, Feb. 20 6 a.m. – 5 p.m.

The 8 On Your Side Health & Fitness Expo is a fun, free and informative event popular with race participants and the general public. In addition to being the place for Late Registration Signup and Race Packet Pickup, the Expo features interactive activities, the latest running footwear and apparel, free medical testing, demonstrations and more.

Several of the bay area’s leading health and fitness professionals will be on-hand over the Expo’s two days. They can help you learn how to take charge of your health options and lead a more healthy and fit lifestyle.

Nutritional Information | CALORIES (per 1/4 recipe) 330kcal; FAT 16g; SAT FAT 3.5g; TRANS FAT 0g; CHOL 100mg; SODIUM 650mg; CARB 25g; FIBER 12g; SUGARS 3g; PROTEIN 31g; VIT A 50%; VIT C 20%; CALC 8%; IRON 20%

Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Bowl SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS

1 cup grape tomatoes, halved 1 large zucchini, sliced Juice of 1 lemon 2 cups water 1 cup brown rice 2 1/2 teaspoons canola oil, divided 1 lb. chicken fillets 2 teaspoons garlic and herb seasoning, divided 1 large ripe Hass avocado 1 (12-oz.) jar roasted red peppers, drained 4 tablespoons crumbled feta (or blue cheese)

STEPS

PREP • • • •

1. Prepare rice following package instructions.

2. Coat chicken with 1 teaspoon oil, 1 teaspoon seasoning and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Place on grill; cook 4–5 minutes on each side or until 165°F. Coat zucchini with 1 teaspoon oil and 1/2 teaspoon seasoning; cook 2–3 minutes on each side.

3. Remove avocado flesh from skin; smash with remaining 1/2 teaspoon seasoning and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Set aside. Cut chicken, roasted peppers and zucchini into bite-size pieces.

Preheat grill or grill pan.

Halve tomatoes.

Slice zucchini into thirds lengthwise.

Squeeze juice from lemon (2 tablespoons).

4. Assemble bowls by placing 1/2 cup rice in center of each bowl. Place roasted peppers, avocado, tomato, zucchini and chicken around rice; top with cheese. Serve.

Nutritional Information | CALORIES (per 1/4 recipe) 470kcal; FAT 17g; SAT FAT 4g; TRANS FAT 0g; CHOL 70mg; SODIUM 460mg; CARB 47g; FIBER 7g; SUGARS 5g; PROTEIN 30g; VIT A 60%; VIT C 100%; CALC 10%; IRON 15%

Tampa Bay Times | Sunday, February 7, 2016 |

15

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16

| Sunday, February 7, 2016 | Tampa Bay Times

211121~2

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Kids Teens