Turtle supporters race down Siesta Key beach

+ Turtle supporters race down Siesta Key beach
Runners crossing the finish line were all smiles as the crowd cheered them on and empowered them to move their feet just a bit faster. Mote Marine held its Run for the Turtles Saturday, April 3, at Siesta Key Beach. More than 1,000 joggers and walkers turned out for the event.

Proceeds from the 1-mile fun run and 5K run benefit Mote’s Sea Turtle Conservation and Research program and help Mote scientists study and protect sea turtles, which are considered threatened or endangered under federal law.

Ricardo Lomas won first place for males in the 5K race, with a time of 17 minutes, 11 seconds. Collins Loughlin ran the fastest time for the females running the 5K, clocking in at 19 minutes, 3 seconds.