NICEVILLE, Fla. — The Sunset Stampede 5k is back on Friday, July 25, and organizers are encouraging the community to register now for this popular nighttime race supporting the Niceville High School boys and girls cross country teams.
The glow-themed 5k run/walk begins at 7:30 p.m. at Northwest Florida State College. Participants will loop twice around the campus perimeter, with awards for top overall, masters, and age-group finishers. A 1.5-mile fun run/walk option is also available.
Now in its fifth year, the Sunset Stampede is the only annual fundraiser for NHS cross country and helps cover travel, gear, and race expenses for the teams. Last year’s turnout topped 300, and the goal this year is to surpass that number and raise $8,000.
Each runner will receive a neon swag bag with glow necklaces, bracelets, and sweatbands to wear during the race. The event is dog- and stroller-friendly, though glow lights are encouraged due to some dark areas along the course.
“We want to make it fun for everyone, while also making sure our student-athletes have the support they need for a strong season,” organizers said.
T-shirts are guaranteed only for the first 270 registrants, and shirt sizes are only guaranteed for those who register by July 11.
Race packets can be picked up early on Thursday, July 24, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., with race-day pickup available starting at 6:00 p.m. in the baseball parking lot at Northwest Florida State College.
On-site race-day registration will be open from 5:45 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and awards will be presented at 9:00 p.m. The course features a water stop at 1.5 miles and refreshments at the finish.
To sign up or learn more, visit https://bit.ly/sunsetstampede. For sponsor inquiries, contact James LaFollette at (850) 797-9220 or james.lafollette@okaloosaschools.com.
