Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic is more than a race, it helps youth organizations in our community

This weekend thousands will be running along Bayshore Boulevard for the Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic. But it is more than just a race; the event benefits several local nonprofits from the money runners raise when they sign up. “What a lot of people don’t know is that we exist to raise money for youth charitable organizations. Since 1978, we’ve contributed – literally written checks for $6.1 million,” explained Susan Harmeling, Race Director for the Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic. Harmeling said race weekend is all about making memories and touching lives. Big Brothers Big Sisters, an organization that touches many lives, is just one of the heritage charities benefiting from the race.