2 fun run events in Gainesville, Florida

The Greater North Central Florida Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. is hosting its 2nd Annual 5K Run & Walk, which will take place at Depot Park in Gainesville, FL on Saturday, February 28th from 9 am -12 pm. Check-in begins at 8 am. We anticipate over 100 participants as we encourage health and wellness while also supporting organizations that help our community thrive.

The Pink and Blue 5K Run & Walk was established in 2025. Last year, we raised approximately $6000, donating a portion of the proceeds to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of North Central Florida. This year, we look forward to increasing our impact by targeting youth literacy development through the non-profit organization, Kut Different—a youth mentorship program. Kut Different provides mentorship to adolescent boys by giving them access to the tools they need to define and achieve their own versions of success. By providing structure, encouragement, and support, Kut Different ensures that every young man they serve has a path to thrive.

There are 3 ways to participate in this event:

1. PINK & BLUE RUN/WALK: Join us in person at Depot Park for the 5K Run & Walk

2. VIRTUAL RUN/WALK: Virtual attendees can register online and complete their walk or run any time leading up to the February 28th event.

3. FUN RUN: Children ages 10 and under can join our Fun Run! Children who participate in the Fun Run do not pay a registration fee to participate, but are required to secure sponsors for each .25K they run or walk. Sponsorships should be documented on this Sponsor Form. Participants' distance will be certified, and they should communicate their distance to sponsors on February 28th. All sponsorship contributions should be submitted by March 6th via the GiveEffect website. Alternatively, payments can be made to the child's parent, who will make out a check to the foundation.

Donations requiring tax deductions should be made via the GiveEffect online platform or a check written to Jack and Jill of America Foundation and mailed to GNCFC Jack and Jill of America, Inc.; P.O. Box 771771; Ocala, FL 34477.

Participants who register for the in-person 5K Run & Walk by Feb. 14th will receive a free t-shirt

2026 Trail of Payne 5k, 10K & 1 Mile Fun Run

This years 14th annual Trail of Payne will have a 5k, 10K and a 1 Mile Fun Run (fun run is not chip timed) option at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. This is a pure trail race you wont want to miss! This run promises to be one of the most unique in the area, so take advantage of our beautiful state park during and after the race. 5K and 10K will share a start and then split off on their own unique course. This is a completely new course, so if you have run before, we will be starting and finishing in a different area.

We will start the 5k and 10k at the Wauberg Lake picnic area and dock. Runners will head out on a dirt road before splitting and entering the trails. 5k will run Jacksons Gap Trail to Cones Dike where they will turn around and head back to the start/finish. The 10k will enjoy a lot of the same trails as previous races, except in reverse. Expect every type of surface: packed dirt, roots, grass, soft sand and even a little mud. With trails that are winding & narrow, straight & wide, sunny & open or shady & dense, you won't be bored on this course.

Bring your friends and get ready to go off-road were gonna get dirty! This race has the potential to be very muddy depending on weather leading up to the event.

• If you would like to Volunteer at this years race, please email for more information.

Pre-Registration Price (register before Feb 28, 2025) - 5k - $30 , 10k - $40, 1M - $15

Registration (March 1st - March 27th) - 5k - $40 , 10k - $50, 1M - $15

Day of Registration - 5k - $50 , 10k - $60, 1M - $15

Only those who Pre-Register are guaranteed a T-Shirt. Fun Run does not include a t-shirt, but one can be added at checkout for $10

We are bringing back AGE GROUP AWARDS!!

We will have awards for 1st, 2nd, 3rd Male and Female in each 10 year age bracket : U19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+

Top Awards and Trophies for Overall 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and Masters Male and Female.

Directions from Gainesville:

Drive south on 441 out of Gainesville. Continue on 441 past both entrances to Lake Wauburg. Just beyond the south entrance to Lake Wauburg turn left into Paynes Prarie Preserve State Park. Follow signs to race parking.

100 Savannah Blvd. Micanopy, Fl 32667