Doc Ford’s to present Yucatán Shrimp 7K May 23
A Sanibel Island race will support enhancements at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
In celebration of National Yucatán Shrimp Day, Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille will present its second annual Doc Ford’s National Yucatán Shrimp Day 7K on Saturday, May 23, at 7 a.m. at its Sanibel location.
A 7K in honor of the seven key ingredients in the restaurant’s signature Yucatán shrimp, this year’s proceeds will benefit the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge (DDWS).
“Doc Ford’s is a long-time supporter of J.N. ‘Ding’ Darling Wildlife Society, and we are happy to help by donating to the cause,” Joe Harrity, a partner with the HM Restaurant Group — which owns and operates Doc Ford’s — said. “The idea of a 7K race originated with our employees and has become an annual event.”
Open to runners and walkers, the 7K will start and finish at the restaurant.
Awards will be presented to the top three male and female runners and by age groups. Timer Lin-Mark Sports will text results live as they happen and post videos of each runner and walker crossing the finish line.
Afterward, Doc Ford’s will open up early at 10 a.m. for post-run festivities.
There will be a complimentary mojito for participants, live chef demonstrations of its Yucatán shrimp and a photo booth, along with free drink stations featuring Captains For Clean Water cocktails, sponsored by RNDC.
Event supports include: Asteria Wellness as a sambal sponsor; Fleet Feet Fort Myers as a lime sponsor; Cheney Brothers, Finnimore’s Bike & Beach Rentals, Lin-Mark Sports, and Sanibel Carts as garlic sponsors; and Bailey’s and On Island as community sponsors.
The entry fee is $45 for ages 11 and older; a virtual option is also available.
In addition, all participants will be entered for a chance to win a Doc Ford’s customized YETI cooler.
Registration will close on May 23 at 9 a.m.
DDWS Executive Director Ann-Marie Wildman reported that the proceeds have been earmarked for new furniture, a displays refresh, and updated signage in the refuge’s Visitor & Education Center, which has been undergoing a long post-hurricane refurbishment.
Register HERE.
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille is 2500 Island Inn Road, Sanibel.
To reach TIFFANY REPECKI, please email trepecki@breezenewspapers.com