The Distance Classic was established in 1978 with the intention of fundraising for all different types of nonprofit organizations located in Tampa Bay. Publix, the City of Tampa, and the C.E. Mendez Foundation support them.  

According to their website https://www.rungasparilla.com/mission-statement, six million has been donated to organizations like Boys & Girls Club of Tampa Bay, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay, and more.   

There are four different runs: Half marathon, 15K, 8K, and 5K. There are separate races to run or walk.   

All the following information is extracted from their website: https://www.rungasparilla.com/   

Half Marathon: Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023, start time: 6 a.m. Street Start: Platt St. and Bayshore Blvd. The finish time for men is 1:30:00 or less, and the finish time for women is 1:45:00 or less. Race Fee: Jan. 14-Feb. 19, 2023, $125; late weekend registration is $135.   

15K: Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 25-26, 2023, start time: 6:55 a.m. Street Start: Brorein St. and Franklin St. Race time: 91 minutes and over. Race Fee: Jan. 14-Feb. 19, 2023, $60, and late weekend registration is $65.  

8K: Sunday, Feb. 25-26, 2023, start time: 9:15 a.m. Street Start: Bayshore Blvd. And Verne St. Race Fee: Jan. 14-Feb. 19, 2023, $55, and late weekend registration is $60.   

5K: Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023, start time: there are five wave starts, 1) 9:15 a.m. and 30 minutes and under, 2) 9:20 a.m. and 31 minutes-35 minutes, 3) 9:25 a.m. and 36 minutes-33 minutes, 4) 9:30 a.m. 41 minutes-45 minutes 5) 9:35 a.m. 46 minutes-50 minutes Race Fee: Jan. 14-Feb. 19, 2023, $50 and late weekend registration is $55.   

Some Plant students have decided to participate in the race or volunteer alongside others. Or they have done so in the past.   

Junior Maren Kennel says, “I plan to hand out water at the run along with other volunteers from the Plant orchestra program.”   

The distance classic has a lot to offer for people who are looking to not only get their athleticism on but to have a good time as well.   

Junior Maggie Warren says, “I’ve done the 5k a few times and I’ve done the 8k once. It’s always been really enjoyable with high energy and a lot of people. It is also nice to run on Bayshore without any cars. It is just such a great race with a great fitness expo, people, views, and is so rewarding.   

For more information on the Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic, visit this website: https://www.rungasparilla.com/