The 4th Annual VyStar Emerald 5K/10K presented by JTC Running and 1st Place Sports was the biggest yet, with more than 750 runners, walkers and cyclists hitting the streets downtown, along the Northbank Riverwalk and San Marco. Since its inception, the event has raised more than $125,000 for Groundwork Jacksonville. Thanks to all the participants and volunteers who got up before the sun to support us!
Special thanks to our title sponsor, VyStar Credit Union, who helped in the event planning, provided race bags and water bottles, and volunteered as part of their #Good is Everywhere initiative.
We also couldn’t do this event without our friends at JTC Running and 1st Place Sports. As the presenting sponsor, JTC Running covers all race costs so that 100% of race entries and sponsorships go to Groundwork.
The Emerald Trail event included a 5K and 10K run and walk, as well as a 5K and 10K ride, supported by the Northeast Florida Bicycle Club. Participants enjoyed a scenic trek along the Northbank Riverwalk to the Riverside Arts Market, and 10K participants continued along the new Shared Use Path (SuP) over the Fuller Warren Bridge to San Marco.
Participants and supporters enjoyed pre- and post-race activities including RTD canned cocktails from Manifest Distilling. Several nonprofit partners joined the fun, providing activities, giveaways and educational resources, including Durkeeville Historical Society, Downtown Vision, Native Plant Society, North Florida Bicycle Club, Sierra Club, Sister Cities and United Way of NE Florida.
“The Emerald Trail aligns perfectly with our commitment to support the communities we serve. The trail not only promotes healthy living and outdoor activities, but it also connects neighborhoods and encourages community engagement,” said Dana Karzan, Chief Marketing Officer at VyStar Credit Union and Groundwork Jacksonville Board Member. “Through our sponsorship we are putting our support behind this important community asset and helping to bring awareness to its many benefits. It’s an event that brings together the entire community, and we love being a part of that energy.”
Thank you to all of our sponsors for their generous support: Miller Electric, HALFF Associates, Jacksonville Transportation Authority, Humana Healthy Horizons® in Florida, Jacobs, Lewis Longman & Walker PA, Tom Bush Family of Dealerships, UF Health Jacksonville, HDR and Breaking Ground Contracting.
“The Emerald Trail 5K/10K is Groundwork Jacksonville’s signature event each year. We are so grateful to all our sponsors and partners who helped to make it a success. VyStar Credit Union has not only been the title sponsor since the beginning, but also a true partner in the planning and execution of the event each year,” said Kay Ehas, Groundwork Jacksonville CEO.
