2022 Vets, Pets & Jets 5K and Fun Run at SRQ
This one-time-only event is sure to add some spring to your step. Go inside the gates of Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) for a 5K and a 1-mile fun run/walk like no other. The course will be safely nestled along an active taxiway on the paved north airfield of SRQ. We’ll also have food, music, vendors, activities, and prizes, so bring the entire family—even the four-legged members. And since it coincides with Veterans Day weekend, we’ll be doing a special salute to our military service members.
Dogs Welcome!
Yes, you read that right. Dogs are welcome, too! All dogs must be kept on a non-retractable leash, and the owner must make sure the dog is under their control at all times. HSSC stresses the importance of pet owners being able to recognize the signs of heat exhaustion, aggressive behavior, and overstimulation.
Race Details
Gate opens at 7am. 5K will begin at 8am and will be chip-timed by Fit2Time. 5K participants will receive a t-shirt, finisher medal, and a free beverage at the conclusion of the race. Awards will be given to top finishers by age group.
The 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk will begin at approximately 9am. Participants will receive a t-shirt and a free beverage at the conclusion of the race.
The Vendor Village will be open and DJ entertainment will be provided throughout the event! Food, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages available.
About the Humane Society of Sarasota County
Incorporated in 1952 as Sarasota’s first nonprofit animal welfare organization, the Humane Society of Sarasota County (HSSC) has grown to be the area’s premier no-kill shelter. A home is found for every adoptable pet in our care.
We take tremendous pride in being the area’s premier no-kill shelter, and with that comes the responsibility to lead by example. Our mission will always be focused on saving the lives of cats and dogs and enriching human lives along the way.
HSSC is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. We rely solely on contributions from individuals, organizations, and corporations. HSSC receives no federal funding, nor are we funded by any national humane organization. HSSC is the only animal welfare organization in Sarasota to earn the coveted 4-Star Rating from Charity Navigator, America’s premier independent charity evaluator.
Participation & Spectator Registration Policy
Due to our unique location, we ask that you keep the following policies in mind:
- All persons attending, including children, MUST be ticketed. Spectator tickets are available through this platform and must be purchased in advance. Registered spectators are $5, children 12 and under are free. No spectator or race registrations will be accepted day of, per airport policy.
- Please bring photo I.D. with you and anticipate a security check at the entrance.
- Parking will be available along Clyde Jones Rd, which is just off Tallevast Rd & 15th St. Please do not park at the main airport. If needed, we will offer overflow parking with a shuttle, and details will be communicated prior to race day. Everyone must enter the event at this location: 1120 Clyde Jones Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243.
- All trash must be contained at all times. Please assist us in making sure any items discarded are done so in the proper trash receptacles.
- Persons in attendance are not permitted to cross boundary markers at any time. If a need arises, please contact event staff immediately and do not cross the rope/fence line. Only airport personnel may do so.
- Retractable leashes will not be permitted, and you will be turned away at the gate if you dog is not properly leashed. Please plan accordingly. For advice on selecting a proper leash, please visit the Humane Society of Sarasota County retail store at 2331 15th Street, Sarasota, FL 34237.
Inclement Weather & COVID-19 Disclaimer:
Your safety is important to us! Please abide by all applicable CDC guidelines based on your vaccination status. In the event that we are unable to hold Vets, Pets & Jets due to inclement weather, COVID-19, or other unforeseen events, your ticket will be considered a donation to the Humane Society of Sarasota County.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the event kid and pet friendly? Yes, the event is family-friendly. Dogs and strollers are welcome. 5K participants with a dog or stroller are asked to allow non-strollers/dog racers to line up in front of them at the start of the race.
Is there a bag drop? No, bag drop is not available.
Is it safe? The race itself will be on the north airfield, adjacent to, but not part of the active runway.
Will I see planes? Yes, a portion of the race route runs adjacent to an active taxiway with the main runway within view.
Is the route paved or on grass? You will be running/walking directly on the paved portion of the north airfield that is normally used for smaller aircraft and sits immediately adjacent to the commercial jet taxi-way and run-way so planes of all sizes will be in view. Only the last few feet of the race will be in grass as you approach the archway at the final turn.
Will it be loud? The airport will be in use on event day and planes will be landing and taking off nearby. If your dog is reactive to noise, this may be an event your four-legged friend will want to sit out.
What happens if my dog gets loose? Every preventative measure should be taken to prevent a loose dog at the event. However if it does occur, no participants are permitted to cross the event boundary line onto the runway area under any circumstances. If your dog does so, please alert race staff immediately so airport authorities can be notified.
What happens if it rains? We value runner safety. In the event of severe weather conditions, the director(s) reserve the right to cancel the race for the safety of its participants. Registrations cancelled due to inclement weather will not be refunded, but instead used to cover event costs, with the balance being treated as a charitable donation to the Humane Society of Sarasota County. Conditions that may result in event cancellation include, but are not limited to: lightning, high winds, flooding, fires, and other acts of God.
Will there be food/drinks? Yes, food and drinks will be available for purchase at the event.
Do children/pets get in free? Children 12 and under get in free but must still pre-register. There is no fee or registration required for dogs.
Can I sign up at packet pick-up or at the event? All registrations close at 11:59pm on November 9, 2022, and no late registrations will be accepted. All guests must be pre-registered per airport policy.
When is packet pick-up? Advance pick-up is strongly encouraged. Packet pick-up is Thursday, November 10, 2022 at the Humane Society of Sarasota County, 2331 15th Street, Sarasota, FL, 34237, from 4-7pm.
Are there sponsorship opportunities available? Yes! Please contact Jaime Limoges at 941.955.4131 x103 or jlimoges@hssc.org
What does my registration fee support? All proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Sarasota County, the area's premier no-kill shelter.
Can I fundraise or donate, even if I don't run? Yes, you can create a fundraising page, or donate to a participant or team, even if you are not running or walking.
Who should I contact if I have questions? Jaime Limoges at 941.955.4131 x103, jlimoges@hssc.org
Registration fees
Prices are inclusive of mandatory charges, items, and fees
5K Closed
Online registration closed-
Includes race entry, chip-timing, beverage, finisher medal and race t-shirt. Contact race admin at 941.955.4131 x103 or jlimoges@hssc.org for veterans/ service member discount.
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$40.00
Early Bird
Sep 21 – Oct 23 -
$45.00
Standard
Oct 24 – Nov 9
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1 Mile Fun Run/Walk Closed
Online registration closed-
Includes race entry, T-shirt and beverage. Contact race admin at 941.955.4131 x103 or jlimoges@hssc.org for veterans/ service member discount.
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$30.00
Early Bird
Sep 21 – Oct 23 -
$35.00
Standard
Oct 24 – Nov 9
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Spectator - 13 & Up Closed
Online registration closed-
All spectators must be registered per airport policy.
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$5.00
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$5.00
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Spectator - 12 & Under Closed
Online registration closed-
All spectators must be registered per airport policy.
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Free
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Pre-Race Volunteer - Nov. 11 Closed
Online registration closed-
Sign-up to assist with course set-up logistics on November 11, 2022 and receive a free volunteer T-shirt
Volunteer - Event Day Nov. 12 Closed
Online registration closed-
Volunteer to assist with the event on race day, November 12, 2022 and receive a free t-shirt
Vendor Table Closed
Online registration closed-
(1) 6-foot table in vendor village tent. Table locations will be assigned randomly. Vendor approval is subject to available space and/or discretion of the event committee. You will be outside, there is no power, water or internet. Please bring everything you need to display and sell your items. Booth set-up begins at 6am on November 12, 2022. All booths must be ready by 7am. Exact parking and set-up details will be sent to you ahead of the event. Contact race admin at 941.955.4131 x103 or jlimoges@hssc.org for veterans/ service member discount.
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$150.00
Standard
Sep 21 – Oct 23 -
$150.00
Standard
Oct 24 – Nov 9
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Volunteer Fri AND Sat Closed
Online registration closed-
Volunteer Friday (set-up) AND Saturday (pre, during & post-race shifts available). Receive a free T-shirt.
Contact information
- Event contact
- Jaime Limoges
- jlimoges@hssc.org
- Phone
- 941.955.4131 x103
- Website
- Visit website