St. Petersburg, Fla. – The first SunSky 10K is set to launch on Sunday, March 21, 2027, giving participants a rare chance to traverse the iconic Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Organized by former Skyway 10K planners in partnership with Visit St. Pete‑Clearwater, the race will cover 6.2 miles, taking runners and walkers roughly 200 feet above Tampa Bay on the northbound lanes of Interstate 275.
Event details and registration
General admission is priced at $100 per person, with a strict cap of 7,500 spots. An additional 500 charity bibs are available for $300 each, bringing the total field to 8,000 participants. Registration opens on Monday, Oct. 5, via the official race website and will be handled on a first‑come, first‑served basis. Organizers note that previous bridge races sold out within hours, so early sign‑up is strongly encouraged.
Bridge closures and logistics
To accommodate the race, the northbound lanes of I‑275 on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge will close from 3:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. on race day. The closure requires coordination among the Florida Department of Transportation, Florida Highway Patrol, local law‑enforcement, fire‑rescue agencies, and the U.S. Coast Guard. While specific details on participant parking, shuttle routes, and individual corral start times have not yet been released, organizers promise updates as the event approaches.
Supporting veterans and first responders
Proceeds from the SunSky 10K will benefit six nonprofit organizations that serve military members and first responders. Beneficiaries include the American Association of State Troopers, the Association of the U.S. Army Suncoast Chapter, the Coast Guard Foundation, the Suncoast Police Benevolent Association, the Tampa Police Benevolent Association, and Semper Fi & America’s Fund. By linking a popular fitness event with charitable giving, the race underscores the community’s commitment to those who protect and serve.
Why the community should be excited
Beyond the athletic challenge, the SunSky 10K offers a unique way for families, faith‑based groups, and local businesses to come together in support of a noble cause. The event aligns with traditional family values by promoting healthy activity, encouraging volunteerism, and honoring the sacrifices of veterans and first responders. It also provides a boost to the local economy, drawing participants from across the region who will patronize hotels, restaurants, and shops in St. Petersburg and the surrounding Pinellas County area.
Looking ahead
As the race date approaches, organizers will release further information on course maps, safety protocols, and volunteer opportunities. Residents are urged to stay informed through the official race website and local news outlets. With its blend of sport, charity, and community spirit, the SunSky 10K is poised to become a beloved annual tradition for St. Petersburg and the greater Tampa Bay region.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
