40th Annual Run for the Turtles

Mote’s Run for the Turtles is a highly anticipated, sanctioned 5K that brings together more than 1,000 runners in support of Mote’s Sea Turtle Conservation & Research Program. This signature event marks the official kickoff of sea turtle nesting season (April 15–October 31) in Southwest Florida—when every step helps protect nesting turtles and their hatchlings.

Mote Marine Laboratory's 41st Annual Run for the Turtles will be held on Saturday, April 3rd 2027, and we can't wait to see you on Siesta Key Beach! 

Location: 948 Beach Road, Sarasota, FL 34242

This Run is the major fundraiser for the Sea Turtle Conservation & Research Program at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium.

About Mote's Sea Turtle Conservation & Rescue Program 

Mote Marine Laboratory’s Sea Turtle Conservation and Research Program (STCRP) has documented sea turtle activities and the status of shoreline habitat along 35 miles of coastline since 1982. This area contains portions of Sarasota and Manatee counties and hosts the highest density of loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) nests in the Gulf waters.

The program supports conservation of marine turtles through the collection of fundamental biological data about nesting and hatching of sea turtles. Data collected contributes to the overall understanding of nesting trends utilized by local, state, and federal entities.

Race Pricing (Prices are the same for the 1 Mile & 5K):

Adults (14 & Up): 

• $40 Regular Pricing
• Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium members receive 10% off their registration. Please contact the membership office at (941) 374-2673 or at [email protected]

Kids (13 & under):

• $30 Regular Pricing 

The schedule of events is as follows:

6:30AM - Packet pick up & race day registration opens

7:00AM - Warm Up! 

7:30AM - 1 Mile Fun Run

8:00 AM - Sanctioned 5K Run

Award ceremony to follow 5K

If you can't be here....don't fret.  You can support our program by registering for and participating in our virtual race again this year.

Race registration (for both the 1 Mile Fun Run & 5K) includes a complimentary race t-shirt, access to the food station, kids activities area & more! This event is family friendly and spectators are welcome. All participants in the 1 Mile Fun Run will receive a finisher ribbon and prizes will be awarded for the overall male and female top finishers. The 5K race will be chip timed and sanctioned by Manasota Track Club. Awards will be given to the top 6 finishers by age group in addition to Overall Masters, Grand Masters, Senior Grand Master etc. This run takes place on the beach so please plan accordingly! To help support our Eco-friendly mission at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, please bring your own reusable water bottle to the race! We will have multiple water stations for you to fill up at.                                                              

Early Packet Pickup:  Please stay tuned for more details regarding early packet pick up. Packets will also be available to be picked up on race morning.

Race T-Shirts: We suggest completing your online registration as early as possible for the best chance of securing the t-shirt size you prefer. There will be a set inventory of each size. If your size is no longer available, please select the next best size. The T-Shirts for virtual participants can be expected to be delivered to the address you registered with around after the in-person event. Thank you for understanding! 

Interested in becoming a sponsor for the 41st Annual Run for the Turtles? Contact Danielle Dwyer, at [email protected] .