Gopher Tortoise Gallup 5K set for Okeeheelee

The Friends of Okeeheelee Nature Center will hold the inaugural Gopher Tortoise Gallup 5K for runners and walkers on Saturday, March 23, at Okeeheelee Park. [Photo by Friends of Okeeheelee Nature Center]

The Friends of Okeeheelee Nature Center will hold the inaugural Gopher Tortoise Gallup 5K for runners and walkers Saturday, March 23, at Okeeheelee Park.

The gopher tortoise is Florida’s official state tortoise and plays a crucial role in the ecosystem. The burrows created by this keystone species support more than 360 types of animals.

The 5K route will wind through Okeeheelee Park, beginning and ending at the Micanopy Pavilion. This chip-timed event will grant awards to the top three overall finishers (male and female) and the top three in each age group. Each participant will receive an event shirt and a finisher medal.

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All proceeds will benefit the Okeeheelee Nature Center.

Schedule:

Thursday, March 21, 1 to 4 p.m.

Pre-race packet pickup, Okeeheelee Nature Center

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Saturday, March 23

Okeeheelee Park, Micanopy Pavilion, 7715 Forest Hill Blvd.

6:15 a.m., park gates open

Registration and packet pickup

6:30 a.m., music and entertainment

6:45 a.m., meet race ambassador Spark and Parks and Recreation Department mascot Oakly

7:10 a.m., 5K fitness warmup

7:25 a.m., announcements and national anthem

7:30 a.m., race start

8 a.m., post-race healthy snacks

8:25 a.m., dancing with DJ Petey

8:45 a.m., awards ceremony

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To register, visit victorysportsmgt.com/gophertortoisegallop5k. For sponsorship information, contact okeeheeleefriends@gmail.com.