Written by Laura Christmas 

OAKLEAF, Fla -- Save the date! Join us at Oakleaf Community Park on Saturday, November 9, 2024, from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM as we celebrate our veterans with a 5K race and a softball exhibition game! The event will include food trucks, a ceremony, organizations supporting veterans, and more. All ages are welcome. This event is a joint collaboration between Veterans Council Clay County Florida and the Clay County Board of County Commissioners. Everyone is welcome to participate in the 5K race. Veterans can sign up for the Veterans' Softball Exhibition Game from August 28 to October 13. Family and friends of veterans can register from October 14 to October 25. You can learn more and sign up on the event page

Tougher than You Think! 5K Run

The Clay County Veterans Day 5K race is called "Tougher than you think!" Run on the Plantation Oaks course and experience Oakleaf Community Park and the Hwy 23 overpass. All participants will get a race t-shirt, custom race bib, chip timing, finisher medal, quality refreshments, and the chance to connect with the Clay County community. To sign up for the race, please visit the registration page.

Race Day Schedule:

6:30 AM - Registration Opens
7:45 AM - Warmup & Stretch
8:00 AM - 5K Run/Walk
10:00 AM- Awards/Recognition

Awards:

We will present awards to the top male and female runners in each age group category: 12 and under, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70 and over. We will also recognize the fastest male and female participants in the wheelchair race.

Ceremony

A ceremony honoring our veterans will commence at 11:00 AM. The event will be hosted by Veterans Service Officer Rich Carey and will feature special guest speakers.

Softball Exhibition Game

Join the Veterans' Softball Exhibition Game starting at 11:30 AM.  Veterans can sign up for the Veterans' Softball Exhibition Game from August 28 to October 13. Family and friends of veterans can register from October 14 to October 25. To participate, fill out our softball exhibition and waiver/hold harmless forms. T-shirts will be given to registered players. Maximum of 80 players.

Volunteers

We need volunteers! To sign up, please visit our volunteer webpage. Thank you!