30th Summer Sunrise Watermelon Series | Lakeland, FL

☀️ About the Race

• Organizer: This race is held by the Lakeland Runners Club, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to promote running and fitness for people of all ages and abilities in the community.
• Purpose: The Summer Sunrise Watermelon Race Series was born out of a desire to have low-cost local races during the hot summer months when it can be hard to stay motivated.
• Structure: The series is comprised of three 5K (3.1 mile) races, each race hotter than the last.
• Scholarships: Since 2012, the club has awarded a total of $115,000 in scholarships funded by race proceeds.

🏃 Race Start

• Time: The race starts at 7:00 AM on Lake Hollingsworth Dr at the intersection of Jonila Ave.

📝 Registration

• Online Signup: Online registration is available through the Tuesday prior to each race.
• In-person Options: Onsite registration (cash or card) during packet pickup on Friday, and again on Saturday if slots are available.
• Medals: All finishers will receive medals, but only series entries will receive shirts and are eligible for age group awards.

📦 Packet Pick Up

• Locations: Early packet pick up will be held Friday before the race at the Cleveland Heights golf course clubhouse and on race day at the Lake Hollingsworth parking lot.
• Friday Schedule: Friday from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM.
• Saturday Schedule: Saturday from 5:45 AM to 6:30 AM.
• Parking: There is limited parking near Lake Hollingsworth: allow extra time to find parking.

🗺️ Course Map

• Layout: The first 1.25 miles of the 5k is on Lake Hollingsworth Dr. The course then transitions to the running path around the lake, before returning to the street for the finish.

🏅 Results & Awards

• Medals: Finishers will receive a participant's medal as they finish each race.
• Cumulative Awards: Series awards will be based on the cumulative time over the three races.
• Categories: The LRC will recognize male and female 1st, 2nd, and 3rd placements in many age categories.
• Presentation: Awards will be presented after the final finisher at the August 5k, ~ 8:30 AM at Lake Hollingsworth Park.

⚠️ Safety & Weather Guidelines

• Restrictions: NO dogs, bicycles, roller skates, or in-line skates will be allowed on the course.
• Weather Monitoring: The Summer Sunrise Watermelon Series is held rain or shine: race officials will monitor the weather.
• Heat Advisory: Stay well hydrated prior to the race by alternating water and electrolyte-based hydration options.

💵 Refund Policy

• Non-refundable: This race is nonrefundable.
• Registration Transfer: You may transfer your registration to another runner (officially give it to someone else) under Manage Your Registration until one week before the race.

📜 Race History

• Inception: The first Summer Sunrise Watermelon Series was held in 1996.

Join in the fun and register here!

Location: 920 Lake Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland, FL

Date: 2025-06-07