The Copper Collar 5K starts at 9:00 AM, giving traveling runners a reasonable morning window to get to the venue. Located in Panama City, Florida at Harrison Avenue and East 4th Street, the event offers a 1-mile run. Entry fees range from $36 to $46. The race is presented by the Man in the Sea Museum. For athletes planning travel to Panama City for this November event, finding accommodation near the venue will support an early start without an excessive pre-dawn wake-up.
From the Race Organizer
COPPER COLLAR 5K — The Original Heavy Metal 5K Hosted by the Man in the Sea Museum & the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center: Downtown Panama City, Florida Get ready to lace up and dive into history with the Copper Collar 5K, a legendary race making waves since 1982! Originally created by the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center, this iconic run has traveled through Navy base roads and the trails of St. Andrews State Park for decades. Now in our second year downtown, we’re bringing that same deep-sea tradition to the heart of Panama City—combining fast streets, local energy, and the rich heritage of military diving. 🌟 2026: A Special Celebration — America’s 250th Birthday! As the nation commemorates 250 years of American independence, the Copper Collar 5K proudly joins the celebration. This year’s race honors not only the legacy of military divers but also the spirit, courage, and resilience that have shaped our country since 1776. There’s no better way to kick off America’s 250th than with a run that honors service, history, and community. 💪 Why “The Original Heavy Metal 5K”? The Copper Collar pays tribute to the iconic copper diving helmets worn by Navy divers—symbols of grit, endurance, and the spirit of exploration. Whether you’re a runner, a supporter of our military, or just looking for a meaningful way to get active, this event has something for everyone. 🎽 Participants Receive: Chip‑timed 5K run or walk A fast, flat course through historic downtown Panama City Commemorative race shirts and gift bags Awards for top finishers Post‑race celebration with music, refreshments, and museum exhibits The chance to support the Man in the Sea Museum and its mission to preserve America’s underwater history 🎉 Join us as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and run toward the future—Copper Collar style. Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with us! If you’re unable to attend but would still like to support the Man in the Sea Museum, please consider clicking the Donate button on our website. Interested in sponsoring the event? Email Steve Mulholland at info@maninthesea.org
Hotels Near This Race
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Copper Collar 5K, presented by the Man in the Sea Museum 2026 — Panama City, FL
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for November 14.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Panama City, 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
When is Copper Collar 5K, presented by the Man in the Sea Museum 2026 — Panama City, FL?
Copper Collar 5K, presented by the Man in the Sea Museum 2026 — Panama City, FL takes place on November 14, 2026. The race is held in Panama City, Florida.
Where is Copper Collar 5K, presented by the Man in the Sea Museum 2026 — Panama City, FL held?
Copper Collar 5K, presented by the Man in the Sea Museum 2026 — Panama City, FL is held at Harrison Avenue and East 4th Street in Panama City, Florida.
Where can I find hotels near Copper Collar 5K, presented by the Man in the Sea Museum 2026 — Panama City, FL?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Panama City. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
