SARASOTA COUNTY – Kick off the holiday season by participating in the 43rd annual Sandy Claws Beach Run on Siesta Beach, returning Saturday, Dec. 14. 
Pre-register by Nov. 20 to guarantee the best price, along with receiving a long-sleeve performance event shirt and runner bag. Pre-registration ends Dec. 8, limited race-day registration will begin at 7 a.m. 

With many participants wearing fun holiday costumes, this annual event presented by Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources and Dr. Heidi K. Anderson-DOCS draws hundreds of runners, walkers and joggers for the 5K race and one-mile fun run. 
The 5K race is chip-timed and there will be finisher medals for 5K and one-mile participants. Custom awards will be distributed to first through sixth place finishers in all age categories. Following the races, runners are invited to stay for music, food and raffle prizes. All runners are also welcomed to participate in a holiday-themed costume contest. 
The 5K run is sanctioned by the Manasota Track Club and proceeds benefit the “Summer in the Parks” Adopt-A-Camper scholarship program.  For online registration or a full schedule of events, visit scgov.net (keywords Registration and Reservations). Registration forms are available by visiting scgov.net and for pick-up at any county recreation center, library or government building. Completed forms can be mailed to Twin Lakes Park, Building C, 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota, FL 34241.   Early packet pickup will be from 3-6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12 at the New Balance Sarasota store,1872 Stickney Point Road. Race-day registration begins at 7 a.m. The one-mile fun run will start at 8 a.m., followed by the 5K run at 8:20 a.m. The holiday-themed costume contest winners will be announced at 9:15 a.m. Siesta Beach is located at 948 Beach Road, Sarasota. 
For more information, call the Sarasota County Contact Center at 941-861-5000.   

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