A new kind of race is coming to the Baseline Greenway Trailhead this August—and it’s designed just for kids. The Ocala Kids Run, a FREE 1-mile chip-timed fun run for elementary and middle school students, will take place Friday, August 23rd at 8:30 AM, giving young runners across Marion County a chance to test their speed, earn a unique finisher medal, and experience the thrill of a real race.
The event is the brainchild of Darrin DeTorres, a name familiar to many in Ocala’s running community. Darrin is the owner of Radical Runs, a company that manages and times local road races, and he’s also a coach with the Ocala Distance Project, a youth-focused training group committed to developing the next generation of distance runners.
“This is a fun way to introduce kids to the sport in a low-pressure, high-energy environment,” says DeTorres. “We want them to come out, compete, and have fun—whether they’ve been running for years or it’s their first time at a starting line.”
And in true Radical Runs fashion, there’s a twist.
Every kid who finishes the race gets to pick a prize from the Mystery Box of Finisher Medals—a collection of leftover medals from all the various races Darrin and his team have produced over the years.
The event is free for all participants who register in advance, and includes professional chip timing, so every kid gets an official time. Day-of registration is $15, if space remains.
Darrin hopes the event becomes a staple in the community. “Running teaches confidence, discipline, and joy. The earlier kids are exposed to that, the better.”
So whether your child dreams of one day running a marathon or just wants to try something new with friends, the Ocala Kids Run is a great place to start.
Event Details:
📍 Baseline Greenway Trailhead
🗓 Friday, August 23, 2024
🕣 8:30 AM start
🎯 Open to elementary and middle school students
🎟 FREE with advance registration | $15 day-of (if available)
