Are you a fan-atee? That’s what we call people who love manatees as much as we do! You can help us keep those manatees well-fed and happy! Tampa Electric's 2026 Run for the Manatees 5K will be EXTRA SPECIAL – because we’re celebrating the 40th anniversary of our Manatee Viewing Center! The route will pass by the Manatee Viewing Center, the cornerstone of Tampa Electric's Florida Conservation & Technology Center (FCTC), and wind through the gorgeous trails on the FCTC campus. Best of all, the unique run will raise awareness and support for Tampa Electric’s manatee conservation efforts by supporting the manatee research program within the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Sat., December 12, 2026 Florida Conservation and Technology Center (FCTC) 321 Noonan Branch Rd Apollo Beach, FL 33572 The FCTC campus is just south of the Manatee Viewing Center, right off of Dickman Rd. Due to limited parking, please consider carpooling! Race Day Timeline: 6:30 am Race Day Bib Pick-Up
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in Apollo Beach, FL. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
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Tampa Electric’s Run for the Manatees 2026 — Apollo Beach, FL
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for December 12.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Apollo Beach, FL.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
