Rock the new year at the Eighth Annual Rockin' Run & Roll 5K
Published on October 28, 2025
Lace up your sneakers and get ready to start the New Year in high gear at the Eighth Annual Rockin’ Run & Roll 5K, hosted by North Port Parks & Recreation. The event takes place Saturday, Jan. 17, at the Morgan Family Community Center, 6207 W. Price Blvd. The race begins at 8 a.m.
This year’s theme is all about the 90s, so break out your fly flannels, scrunchies, windbreakers, and other throwback gear. The fun doesn’t stop at the finish line, with awards for creativity including the ever-popular Best Dressed Dog contest, so make sure your pup is lookin’ phat too!
The flat, fast 3.1-mile course is open to runners, walkers and wheelchair racers of all skill levels. The first 200 registered participants will receive a race bib, shirt and finisher’s medal. Water stations will be available along the route.
Early registration is $30 through Jan. 17. Race-day registration is $35. All participants must register online at RunSignUp.com/np5k. Race packets will be available for pickup on Friday, Jan. 16 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on race morning from 6:45 to 7:45 a.m.
Prizes will be awarded to the top male and female finishers in the categories of Overall, Masters, Grand Masters, Senior Grand Masters, Push Rim and Veterans. Age group awards will also be presented, along with recognition for the team or organization with the most registered participants. This race continues to be an official qualifying event for the Gulf Coast Senior Games, giving participants age 50 and older the opportunity to advance toward the statewide competition.
“The Rockin’ Run & Roll 5K is more than just a race,” said Alex Romero, Recreation Program Coordinator. “It supports the Parks & Recreation Youth Scholarship Program, which helps ensure local children have access to camps and other recreational activities that build healthy lifestyles and lasting friendships.”
Please note, the North Port Aquatic Center will open at noon on Jan. 17 to accommodate the event. For more information or to register, visit NorthPortFL.gov/RockinRun5K or call 941-429-PARK (7275), option 3.
About the Youth Scholarship Program
A portion of the proceeds will help fund the Parks & Recreation Youth Scholarship program. In partnership with the Social Services Division, this scholarship fund makes recreational opportunities accessible to North Port youth facing financial barriers. Qualifying residents aged 17 and under can receive scholarships for up to two recreation or aquatic programs. Through this support, youth can learn to swim, focusing on essential water safety skills and building confidence in, on, and around water—especially for first-time swimmers. Alternatively, they may choose from various camp programs that promote physical activity, creativity, and self-expression through engaging activities like arts and crafts, sports, and team-building exercises. Overall, the scholarship fund aims to ensure that all North Port youth have access to enriching experiences that build confidence, skills, and connections within their community.
Vendor & sponsorship information
The City of North Port is seeking race-related businesses and organizations to partner with us for this event. For more information, please contact Kimberly Lencki at KLencki@NorthPortFL.gov or call 941-429-PARK (7275).
Thank you to our sponsors for their generous support of this event: Coffee Cubed, Imagine School at North Port Young Marines, Jackson Signs & T-Shirts, and Sarasota County Schools.