Raptor Run 5k 24′

The Raptor Run returns!

Start your “Couch to 5k” program now so you’ll be ready for our 9th Annual Boyd Hill Nature Trail 5k!

This race’s origins begin with St Pete Strength Center (Formerly the Anytime Fitness DTSP 2011-2022) organizing it as a way to motivate its members to get together to celebrate their bodies, connect to nature, and raise funds for St. Pete’s cherished Boyd Hill Nature Preserve.

Now, in collaboration with Peli Productions, a local media production company, the Raptor Run continues to embrace the grassroots values that have shaped it over the past nine years.

Boyd Hill Park, originally established as a zoo and botanical garden, has transformed into a breathtaking tapestry of natural habitats and lush tropical landscapes nestled along the shores of Lake Maggiore. The main 5k trail highlights the park’s diverse beauty, while there are also five captivating side trails to explore, each showcasing unique habitats such as the Swamp Woodlands Trail, Willow Marsh Trail, Lake Maggiore Trail, Scrub Island Trail, and Pine Flatwoods Trail. Along the way, you’ll encounter delightful surprises like the amusing giant armadillos by Wax Myrtle Pond.

The beautiful marked race trail is ready for you to walk, run, or even crawl at your own pace! So come play outside with us. Please note that this event is exclusively for human racers, and to maintain the integrity of our trails and wildlife, we have limited tickets available for only 200 participants. Given the demand, we anticipate selling out quickly, so secure your tickets without delay!

As a not-for-profit run, this event directly supports the Boyd Hill Nature Preserve and The Friends of Boyd’s Raptor Fest, which funds their vital Birds of Prey Program (learn more here).

With your registration, you’ll receive an exclusive, locally designed and printed 2024 Raptor Run Long Sleeved Dry-Fit Shirt, featuring the Short-Tailed Hawk—a bird you can encounter firsthand at Boyd Hill as part of their Birds of Prey Program and a native resident of Florida’s remarkable ecosystems.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to make a positive impact while enjoying the wonders of nature. Lace up your shoes, embrace the spirit of camaraderie, and embark on an unforgettable journey at the Boyd Hill Nature Trail 5k!”

More Details:

Race Day is December 14th

Early Bird Registration, through October 31st: $40

October 31st until the day of the event: $50 (Shirts not guaranteed for last-minute orders. We will provide more details here and on social media when we become aware of shirt deadlines)

Check-in from 7:45-8:15am

Runner warm-up led by our training staff at 8:15am

5k Run begins at 8:30am

In the event of unforeseen torrential weather, the race will be postponed to a later date in early January.

Check out the photos from the last event!