Gasparilla Distance Classic Status

Since 1978, the Gasparilla Distance Classic Association, a not-for-profit 501 (c) (3) organization, has produced the Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic Race Weekend Events to raise funds for youth charitable organizations in the Tampa Bay Community. More than $4. 2 million has been donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa, Girls Inc. of Pinellas, The Friends of Tampa Recreation and several non-profits and youth running related programs.  The Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic Race Weekend is a running event in Tampa, FL that in 2019, will take place on Saturday & Sunday, February 23 - 24.  The Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic 15K, 5K Run, 5K Walk & 5K Stroller Roll that are scheduled for Saturday, February 23 and will be followed by the Publix Gasparilla Half Marathon & 8K on Sunday, February 24.  Race Weekend features a distance for every member of the family, every level of competition and everyone that crosses the Finish Line receives a bit of 'Booty,' also know as a Finisher's Medal.  The event is pirate-themed and a part of the annual two-month long 'Gasparilla Celebration' that pays tribute to Jose Gaspar, a swashbuckling pirate that many years ago, invaded the waters of Tampa Bay!  In addition to individual race amenities, those that finish one of the Challenges, receive a Challenge Finisher's Medal and Challenge Finisher's Jacket.  Runners can participate in the Michelob Ultra Challenge (15K, 5K, Half Marathon & 8K), Michelob Ultra Amber Challenge (15K, 5K & Half Marathon) or Michelob Ultra Lime Cactus Challenge (15K & 8K).  For those that are up for a challenge, the weekend also offers three multi-event Challenges.  The weekend also features the two-day '8 On Your Side Health & Fitness Expo that will be held in the Tampa Convention Center's East Hall and is Free & Open To The Public.