In 85 days · Sat, Oct 31, 2026
Don't let race day sneak up
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When
Saturday, October 31st, 2026
Where
10625 NE Waldo Rd, Gainesville FL
Distance
5K
Typical weather
61–79°F · low rain risk
See last 10 years
On this date: rain 0 of the last 10 years
2025
45–67°F
dry
2024
67–83°F
dry
2023
66–84°F
dry
2022
65–85°F
dry
2021
51–70°F
dry
2020
60–83°F
dry
2019
73–87°F
dry
2018
59–82°F
dry
2017
45–72°F
dry
2016
62–85°F
dry
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About this race
About the Flatwoods 5K
- Venue: The Flatwoods 5K is touted by many local runners as Gainesville’s most beautiful, memorable 5K venue, run just after sunrise on a scenic limerock loop road around UF's Austin Cary Forest (10625 NE Waldo Rd, Gainesville, FL 32609).
- Experience: The sights, sounds, and smells of the Forest, shared with friends and family, are sure to create lasting memories.
- Support: Race proceeds support forestry education and outreach to help sustain Florida's natural heritage.
Race Details
- Timing: The race is chip timed by Start2Finish Race Management.
- Course: The course is accurately measured (but not USATF certified), with mile markers.
- Water Station: There is a water station at the halfway point, and post-race refreshments.
- Strollers: Strollers are welcome, but please note the road is unpaved.
Logistics
- Parking: Note that parking and the starting line will be approximately 2 miles (5-8 min. drive) from the main gate on Waldo Rd.
- Start Time: Start time is 8:30 AM.
Registration and Race T-shirt
- Cost: Registration is $20. Runners 12 years and under race for free.
- T-shirt: You can purchase a race t-shirt for an additional $15.
- Order Deadline: T-shirt orders will stop two weeks before race day - October 18.
- Early Registration: Early registration ends Wednesday, Oct. 29 at 11:59 pm.
Packet Pickup
- Early Pickup: Early Packet pickup will be THURSDAY October 30 from 4:30 to 7:00 at First Magitude Brewing Company (1220 SE Veitch St, Gainesville, FL 32601).
- Race Day Pickup: Participants can also pick up their packet 7:00 am to 8:15 am at the Austin Cary Forest on race day.
Awards
- Trophies: Pine cone trophies made from native longleaf, loblolly and slash pine cones go to top open and masters runners, and top 3 in all five-year age/gender groups.
- Youth Awards: All runners 14 years or younger will receive an award.
Contact Information
- Questions: Please contact Taylor Stein, Flatwoods 5K Race Director, with any questions: tstein@ufl.edu.
Additional Information
- Website: For more details, visit the race page: Flatwoods 5K Race Page.
Course map
Train with a club
Run clubs near Gainesville to train with before race day.
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