Whether you run for fun, or seriously compete in sanctioned USA Track & Field events, the upcoming races at Connerton are ones you will not want to miss.
Connerton is hosting its third annual 10K, 5K and Kids’ Fun Run on Saturday, November 5th. The run begins at Club Connerton in north Land O’ Lakes. The course is well-marked and features smooth-surfaced, wide sidewalks that wind through this beautiful, master-planned community where conservation and nature abounds.
The certified, USATF course is for runners who want to record their times and establish a personal best. It is also perfect for those wanting to run for fun and to challenge their personal stamina and distance ability.
“Connerton enjoys hosting these races and welcomes the public this opportunity to experience the exhilaration of an early morning run,” said Stew Gibbons, president of Connerton as well as a long-time resident of the community.
“We encourage you to put on your running shoes, grab an energy snack and bottle of water we provide before and after the run, and challenge your family and neighbors to join you. It’s a great way to get your friends moving and enjoying an autumn Florida day in the great outdoors!”
Runners receive t-shirts and race medals, and top finishers in all age groups receive trophies. All 5K and 10K runners are entered into a raffle for fantastic prizes, gift certificates, electronics and more.
With the Connerton Challenge taking place close to Veterans’ Day, this is the third year that proceeds from the run will be donated to Operation Helping Hand, a project of the Tampa Chapter of Military Officers Association of America.
Operation Helping Hand helps the families of wounded and injured veterans during their stay in Tampa Bay. The volunteer organization uses 96 percent of the monies it collects to benefit veterans and their families.
If you haven’t visited Connerton, you will discover that it is more than a community because it has been designated a “New Town” by the State of Florida and Pasco County.
Although many communities call themselves “towns,” the criteria for receiving this prestigious designation requires that the community meets specific criteria that includes residential housing, educational and recreational facilities, plus retail and commercial business opportunities that contribute to an employment base within a designated geographic area.
Unlike other master planned communities, Connerton’s master plan is reviewed on an annual or biennial basis to ensure that these criteria are being met in a timely manner.
Connerton prides itself on being an integral part of central Pasco County and offers opportunities for nearby friends and neighbors to participate in community events such as the Connerton Challenge and the annual 4th of July Nation Celebration.
Also available for community enjoyment is the Conner Preserve, a 3,000 acre parcel which Connerton’s developer conveyed to the Southwest Florida Water Management District in 2003 for preservation of natural systems, water quality and flood protection.
“We hope you come and enjoy the Connerton Challenge, and after the race, take advantage of visiting the model homes of our 4 well-known builders, Taylor Morrison, M/I Homes, Lennar and Homes by WestBay,” said Gibbons. “You just might want to stay and make Connerton your new home.”
Register for the Run at www.connerton.com, or call 813-996-5800 for more information. Connerton is located on Land O’ Lakes Boulevard (U.S. 41), seven miles north of State Road 54.
