Mission Statement

The Gasparilla Distance Classic Association, established in 1978, is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds for non-profit charitable youth organizations and running programs in the Tampa Bay area.

Through the efforts of an all-volunteer and diverse board of directors and organizing committee, Its mission is carried out through the administration of the annual Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic Race Weekend, produced in cooperation with the City of Tampa and, Publix Too Good For Drugs Jr. Gasparilla Distance Classic, presented in partnership with the City of Tampa and C.E. Mendez Foundation.

The Gasparilla Distance Classic Association takes great pride in its mission. Since the first running of the Gasparilla Distance Classic in February 1978, $6 million has been donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay, The Friends of Tampa Recreation, and youth non-profit and running-related programs throughout the Tampa Bay area.

Thank you to the City of Tampa, Publix Super Markets, C.E. Mendez Foundation, Gasparilla’s event sponsors, volunteers, and, each of the 725,000+ participants that since 1978 have crossed the Finish Line!

For more information please contact:

Susan Harmeling, Race Director
susan@Rungasparilla.com
PO BOX 1881, Tampa, FL 33601
813-254-7866