provided to The Santiva Chronicle
Sanibel will welcome runners from across the globe on Saturday, Dec. 7, for the FISH OF SANCAP FISH 10K/5K race, a highlight of the JOG N JAM fundraising event. Last year, the event drew 530 participants, mainly from Florida and others from around the country, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
“We are thrilled that our race receives both national and international attention. We excitedly anticipate this year’s turnout and look forward to welcoming runners of all ages and backgrounds to our annual event,” says Leah Winkler, Race Committee Co-Chair.
The FISH event begins with the 10K and 5K races at the Sanibel Community House and concludes with an early evening concert and fireworks at Captiva’s ‘Tween Waters Resort. Proceeds support the ‘neighbors helping neighbors’ organization.
Louise Rushmer, a recent registrant, will join the 10K runners in her first U.S. race.
“I’m excited to participate in the 10K event,” said Rushmer. “Sanibel is my favorite place. I honeymooned there when my uncle had a place on the island.” Rushmer visits when she can to see her cousin, who also has a home on the island.
A dedicated runner for 20 years, Rushmer said, “Supporting the rebuilding of our paradise island while doing something I love is wonderful. I’ve never raced in the U.S., so I’m very excited! I recently ran our village 10K in Horndon on the Hill, east of London, in 52 minutes, the same time as 20 years ago. Now, at 58, I’m quite pleased with that time.”
Horndon on the Hill is a quaint village in Thurrock, Essex, England, known for its blend of charm and history.
As a major fundraiser for FISH, the event’s sponsorships, race, and concert registrations, and merchandise sales contribute to enriching the lives of Sanibel and Captiva Islands’ residents through social services, education, and assistance.
A kid’s run for ages 10 and younger will follow the race at the Sanibel Community Park. While participation is free, registration is required. Race registration is available on RunSignUp.
A family-friendly concert featuring the band Funk You will be at ‘Tween Waters on Captiva, with fireworks on the beach. Transportation shuttles will run from Sanibel at 5 p.m. on Dec. 7. The concert begins at 5:30 p.m., with food and drinks available for purchase.
FISH will announce more details soon and encourage early race registration and ticket purchases. Prices are tiered and will rise closer to the event date. Merchandise is currently on sale and available for shipping, and on-island merchandise sales are planned for the future.
Support for the race is vital as FISH continues to serve the island communities. Various sponsorship opportunities are available and detailed on the organization’s website. For more information about JOG N JAM or sponsorship opportunities, email events@fishofsancap.org.
For additional information on FISH’s long-term recovery services and other programs, contact Executive Director Maria Espinoza at 239-472-4775 or visit www.fishofsancap.org.
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