On December 12, 2026, Tampa Electric's Run for the Manatees takes place in Apollo Beach, Florida, at the Florida Conservation and Technology Center. The event features a 5K distance, making it accessible for runners across ability levels. Registration costs between $40 and $50, with the race starting at 8:00 AM. The event combines running with a conservation mission, supporting manatee protection efforts. For athletes traveling to the Apollo Beach area for this race, accommodations near the venue will position you for an early arrival at the starting line.
From the Race Organizer
Tampa Electric’s Run for the Manatees is Sold Out! 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 Opens (Race day registration is NOT available) 7:40 am Pre-Race Announcements 8:00 am 5K Starts 9:00 am Awards Each person participating in the event, whether running or walking, must be wearing a 2026 race bib that was distributed at pre-race pick up or race morning check in! Virtual registrants will NOT be joining the in-person event on race day! Event shirt & finisher medal for Virtual participants will be mailed via USPS to the address submitted during registration, the week following the race! Bibs, shirts, & finisher medals for in-person participants not picked up on race morning will not be mailed! Due to the nature of our facility, pets of any kind are NOT permitted on-site! Awards presented to 1st place male & female finishers in the following age groups: 12 and under, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, 80+ Please check the Frequently Asked Questions link located in the menu above for more info! After the race, feel free to explore the FCTC campus! It’s a showcase for three champions of the environment: Tampa Electric, the Florida Aquarium and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Learn more at www.tampaelectric.com/fctc Proceeds from race registrations will be donated to The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commision.
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
When is Tampa Electric’s Run for the Manatees 2026 — Apollo Beach, FL?
Tampa Electric’s Run for the Manatees 2026 — Apollo Beach, FL takes place on December 12, 2026. The race is held in Apollo Beach, Florida.
Where is Tampa Electric’s Run for the Manatees 2026 — Apollo Beach, FL held?
Tampa Electric’s Run for the Manatees 2026 — Apollo Beach, FL is held at Florida Conservation and Technology Center (FCTC) in Apollo Beach, Florida.
Where can I find hotels near Tampa Electric’s Run for the Manatees 2026 — Apollo Beach, FL?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Apollo Beach. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
