After 2 years of virtual races, the Florida Museum’s sixth annual 5K was back in-person, with an option to stay virtual for our out-of-town racers. Fantastic Fossils 5K was a fun run held March 26 that started and ended in front of the Florida Museum.
With campus construction and a flooded boardwalk, racers got to experience a new course with new trails and an up-close look at the new ballpark.
The weather was crisp and cool, perfect for racing! As close to 300 racers lined up to run and walk their 3.1 miles to victory, the playlist rolled over to Cake’s “Going the Distance.” After a few tips and reminders, the racers were off!
The museum’s first large, in-person event since the pandemic brought a wide range of participants, from experienced racers to first timers, from young to old, and slow to fast. This event was for everyone, and everyone’s goodwill and excitement were evident in the festive atmosphere.
After snagging their hard-earned medals, racers feasted on bagels and oranges as they cheered on their friends and other racers. Along with our fantastic museum volunteers, this race was also improved with the help of the UF’s triathlon club and UF’s women’s club rugby team.
Seventy-five folks took their race virtual, including one participant that covered the distance while on a trip home to India. These racers will receive the same sweet swag as the in-person racers – a race shirt, medal, and coupon into our new exhibit, Fantastic Fossils.
