The Raptor Run, a beloved 5K through the scenic Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, is back for its 10th year on Saturday, December 13 at 8 a.m. Hosted by St. Pete Strength Center (formerly Anytime Fitness DTSP) and Peli Productions, this annual event invites participants to enjoy a beautiful, marked trail through one of St. Pete’s most iconic natural preserves, located along the shores of Lake Maggiore.
This year, Raptor Run is doubling down on the fun. In addition to the chipped and timed 5K, there will also be a Raptor Stroll 5K that offers a later and more leisurely walk or jog on the same path, but without the pressure of competition. Registration for both is open now, and space is limited, so we recommend acting soon. The race is limited to 200 participants!
With registration in either event, runners receive an exclusive, locally designed and printed 2025 Raptor Run shirt, highlighting the swallow-tailed kite. This bird, a native resident of Florida’s ecosystems, is part of Boyd Hill’s efforts to educate the public about wildlife through their Birds of Prey Program.
Photo courtesy Peli Productions
Here’s what to know about each event:
The Raptor Run 5K: A timed, chip-tracked race for competitive and recreational runners. Perfect if you want an official result, a chance at a personal record, or the buzz of a true race-day atmosphere.
The Raptor Stroll 5K: A casual, untimed walk/run later in the morning. Includes the same trail and shirt at a lower price point, but no timing chips or bibs. Great for families, first-timers, or anyone who just wants to move at their own pace.
Raptor Run gives you the ultimate Boyd Hill experience
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve originally began as a zoo and botanical garden for the city of St. Petersburg. It has since evolved into a mosaic of natural habitats and wild landscapes that celebrate Florida’s rich ecology.
From the outer 5K marked Main Trail, five side trails (mostly loops) showcase specific habitats: the Swamp Woodlands Trail, Willow Marsh Trail, Lake Maggiore Trail, Scrub Island Trail, and Pine Flatwoods Trail. These side trails immerse participants in diverse habitats and feature unique sights like the giant armadillos along Wax Myrtle Pond.
Photo courtesy Peli Productions
The marked race trail is ready for participants to walk, run, or even crawl at their own pace. This not-for-profit run directly benefits Boyd Hill Nature Preserve and The Friends of Boyd’s Raptor Fest, which funds the Birds of Prey program. This essential program provides a permanent home for non-releasable native birds of prey, while educating thousands of visitors each year on the importance of protecting these animals and their roles in our ecosystem.
Raptor Fest places an emphasis on scavenger birds, supporting the care, feeding, and education around these vital creatures. Donations and sponsorships go directly to the birds’ care and enable outreach programs to inspire conservation efforts in the community.