Race to save what’s endangered:  Florida Keys Wildlife Society seeks registrants for annual Run with Deer 5K run/walk

February 21, 2018. – (Big Pine, FL). Runners are invited to register for the fourth annual Run with Deer 5K run/walk, a race that wanders through rural roads within National Key Deer Refuge on Saturday, March 17. Race proceeds will benefit Florida Keys Wildlife Society (formerly known as FAVOR) and used to help support exhibit purchases for the new Nature Center, refuge habitat restoration, education and outreach, and many other Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuges projects that help protect endangered wildlife.

“The Run with Deer 5K race course is a fun route and a great way for people to get out in nature, get a little exercise, and contribute to the National Wildlife Refuges!”  says Nancy Chatelaine, Florida Keys Wildlife Society member and race coordinator.

Co-hosted by Key West Southernmost Runners, the race is part of the Florida Keys Wildlife Refuges’ Outdoor Fest, a week-long celebration of the Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuge system that encourages people to get outside in a wildlife-friendly manner. The Saturday, March 10 through Saturday, March 17 Fest spans the four national wildlife refuges and features family-friendly, mostly free outdoor adventures and hands-on activities, including Saturday’s 8am race, followed by an awards ceremony and a family-friendly Outdoor & Wildlife Fair from 9am-2pm, featuring music, food, and lots of hands-on projects for kids.

Registration is $25 for ages 14 and up, $15 for 13 and under.  Children under 5 are free with a parent. Register early to save $5 and receive a race T-shirt: visit floridakeyswildlifesociety.org/run-with-deer-registration or pick up a registration form at the National Key Deer Refuge Nature Center on Big Pine Key.  Race day registration is at the new Nature Center located at 30587 Overseas Hwy at 7:00am.

For more information about the race, the refuges, volunteer opportunities, and the list of Outdoor Fest events, visit www.favorfloridakeys.org/outdoor-fest or contact Kristie Killam at 305.304.9625 or email Nancy or Jan at [email protected]. Brought to you in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council.

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