Celebrating the 21st year of racing, The Seaside School Half Marathon & 5K kicked off registration Aug. 25 for the Feb. 17-19, Race Weekend. The charitable cause, which draws participants from all over the country, has helped fund The Seaside School, Inc., one of the first and now the oldest operating public charter schools in the state of Florida.
“It’s an exciting time for The Seaside School, and with Northwest Florida State College working to expand the Seacoast Collegiate High School campus and program offerings,” said Teresa Horton, executive director of the Seaside School Foundation.
The three-day charity Race Weekend kicks off with the coastal cuisine event Taste of the Race Friday night, then proceeds to a fun-for-all-ages Race Expo Saturday culminating Sunday morning with the running of the half marathon and 5K along Highway 30A, starting and finishing in Seaside.
This year’s race will feature an overall theme, to be voted on by race registrants and social media followers. The chosen theme will spice up race festivities, particularly for runners wishing to dress out, liven up their run or participate in team entries. Theme choices include “Disco Dash,” “Superhero Sprint” and “Rockstar Run.” To vote, visit runseasidefl.com or facebook.com/SeasideSchoolFoundation. The theme will be announced across all social media platforms on Oct. 1.
One hundred percent of the funds raised from the race weekend benefit The Seaside School Foundation, which supports the operating budget for Seaside Neighborhood School and Seacoast Collegiate High School. The Seaside School, Inc. is tuition-free, public charter school serving students across Walton County. Last year, the 2022 race raised proceeds totaling more than $700,000.
Registration cost for the 5K is $95 and the half marathon is $125. A $20 discount is available to military personnel and first responders with proof of active military identification cards, honorable discharge papers or police/firefighter/EMT identification cards. Email documents before registering to race@runseasidefl.com to receive a discount code.
Race registrants will receive a Vera Bradley® Grand Tote in Plum Pansies, a virtual goody bag full of surprises, an iconic race shirt designed by Billie Gaffrey, a customized playlist and half marathon finishers will receive a unique finisher medal.
Registration options can be found at www.runseasidefl.com.
