This race is held by the Lakeland Runners Club, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to promote running and fitness for people of all ages and abilities in the community.

The Summer Sunrise Watermelon Race Series was born out of a desire to have low-cost local races during the hot summer months when it can be hard to stay motivated. The series has become an established venue for competition and an annual celebration of fitness. It continues to be popular with both experienced and casual runners alike. Many of the local high school cross-country teams use it as a tune-up for their season. The series is comprised of three 5K (3.1 mile) races, each race hotter than the last. All are run around Lake Hollingsworth, which is flat and conducive to fast times. In 2011, the LRC used the proceeds from the series to award one scholarship to a Polk County high school senior. The annual fund has grown with the race, and since 2012, the club has awarded a total of $107,500 in scholarships. Join in the fun and #getsweatyforscholarships!

Walkers are welcome at this event. The Watermelon 5k is held on a USATF-certified course (FL21019JK). The race is chip-timed.

08-10-2024, 07:00 am - 10:00 am