Run on the Wildside at the 2nd Annual Turtle Trot 5K

Named after the large number of aquatic turtles that reside in the McGough Nature Park pond, the Turtle Trot 5K is back on Saturday morning, April 14.

The run will begin at 8am with on-site registration beginning at 6:45am. The 5k run is a measured 3.1-mile flat course that will take participants through McGough and Bonner Park's well-kept trails and boardwalks, and on quiet neighborhood streets nearby.

The race will start and finish at McGough Nature Park, 11901 146th St N, Largo.

5k awards will be given to the overall male and female runners. The top three finishers in each age group will also receive awards. Each participant will be given a ticket to be entered into a prize drawing for a chance to win many great items. Additional tickets will be available for purchase.

Great t-shirts and goody bags are guaranteed to all pre-registered runners. Post-race refreshments and water will be available. Both parks are located on the Intercoastal Waterway and have great boardwalks and piers for post-race relaxing. Bring the kids and feed the turtles from the observation deck. Turtle food is available at McGough Nature Center.

The 2nd annual run is co-hosted by the City of Largo and the Friends of Largo Nature Parks, a volunteer group supporting Largo Nature Parks.

Race fees are $15 pre-registered and $20 after April 4, 2012. All proceeds from the race will go towards supporting Largo Nature Parks.

Registration forms can be found online at LargoNature.com, or picked up at the following locations: Largo City Hall, Southwest Recreation Complex, Highland Recreation Complex, McGough Nature Park, and Bonner Park. For more information, call (727)518-3047.