Mote Marine Laboratory is bringing its 34th annual Run for the Turtles from its original home on Siesta Beach to you – wherever you are – with the first-ever all-virtual Run for the Turtles.

Participate in the virtual 5K run or 1-mile fun run/walk began Friday, July 10, and continues through Thursday, Sept. 10.

Every registration supports Mote’s Sea Turtle Conservation & Research Program, which has monitored, studied and helped protect sea turtles along 35 miles of Southwest Florida nesting beaches since 1982.

In addition, visit @MoteMarineLab on Facebook and Instagram and celebrate your 5K or 1-mile run by sharing photos of yourself, your team, and your actions. Tag #RunfortheTurtles2020 and watch for special contests just for event participants:

* Shell-ebrity snapshot: Show us an amazing photo of yourself or your socially-distant team running or warming up. From these posts, we will select a winner to receive a Mote-themed Tervis Tumbler.

* Best team theme: Did you partner with friends, family or co-workers for a unique run experience? Did you name your team something amazing? Did you dress up in costumes? The team with the best theme will win a six-pack of Leatherback Lager from Darwin Brewing (for ages 21 and older) and Mote stickers.

* Turtle-y actionable tips: Take one action to protect sea turtles and tell us all about it. From these posts, we will select a winner to receive a painting made by Mote’s diamondback terrapin, Cecil.

Event registration is $35 for each adult and $25 for each child (age 13 and younger).

Registration will close on Sept. 10 at 12 a.m.

For more information or to register, visit mote.org/run.

Mote Marine Laboratory is an independent, nonprofit, marine research organization based on City Island in Sarasota, Fla., with additional campuses in eastern Sarasota County, Boca Grande and the Florida Keys.

For additional information about the organization, call 941-388-4441.

Source: Mote Marine Laboratory