Spotlight: Free 1-Mile Kids Run Coming to Ocala – With a Mystery Medal Twist

A new and exciting event is coming to Ocala this August that promises to get kids moving and excited about running. The free 1-mile Kids Run will take place at the Baseline Greenway Trailhead, offering young runners ages 4-15 a chance to participate in their own special race event.

The Mystery Medal Twist

What makes this kids run unique is the mystery medal element. Every child who completes the 1-mile course will receive a special finisher's medal, but there's a twist – the medal design will remain a mystery until race day! This element of surprise adds an extra layer of excitement for young participants who will eagerly anticipate discovering what their hard-earned medal looks like.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025
Time: 8:00 AM
Location: Baseline Greenway Trailhead, Ocala
Distance: 1 Mile
Ages: 4-15 years old
Cost: FREE

What to Expect

The course will follow the scenic Baseline Greenway Trail, providing a safe, traffic-free environment for young runners. The flat, paved trail is perfect for runners of all abilities, from first-timers to experienced youth athletes.

Parents and family members are encouraged to cheer from designated viewing areas along the course. The event will feature:

- Professional race timing
- Water stations
- Post-race refreshments
- Mystery finisher medals for all participants
- Age group recognition
- Fun warm-up activities led by local coaches

Registration Information

Registration is required and space is limited to ensure a quality experience for all participants. Parents can register their children online at the event website starting July 1st. Early registration is encouraged as this free event is expected to fill quickly.

Building Healthy Habits

This event is part of a broader initiative to promote youth fitness and healthy lifestyles in Marion County. By offering a free, fun, and accessible running event, organizers hope to inspire children to stay active and potentially develop a lifelong love of running.

Local running clubs and youth sports organizations are partnering to make this event possible, demonstrating the community's commitment to youth health and wellness.

Race Day Tips for Parents

- Arrive early for parking and check-in
- Bring water bottles for before and after the race
- Ensure children wear appropriate running shoes
- Apply sunscreen before the event
- Bring cameras to capture the moment
- Plan to stay for the awards ceremony

Safety First

The event will have medical personnel on site, and the course will be monitored by volunteers to ensure all participants stay on track. Parents of younger children (ages 4-6) may run alongside their child if needed.

Join us for this inaugural event that promises to become an annual tradition in Ocala's youth running calendar. The combination of free entry, a fun atmosphere, and the mystery medal twist makes this an event not to be missed!