After being sidelined in 2019, the storied Bushwacker 5k is back. Over the years, the running event that turns into a tropical beach party has helped organizers raise more than $100,000 for Big Brothers Big Sisters and more than $200,000 for other charities. The event will be held August 5.

Originally organized by the Cap’n Fun Runners, a Pensacola Beach running club, the first Bushwacker 5k was held in the hot summer of 1987 with a small field of runners. The race, which begins in Gulf Breeze and finishes at the Portofino Boardwalk in Pensacola Beach, soon grew to more than 1,000 participants and a huge beach bash was added.

Organizers RunPensacola.com, Running Wild and Cap’n Fun Runners say this year’s event will continue the Bushwacker 5k legacy.

“We’re thrilled to be working together again to bring this historic race back to the community,” said Running Wild owner Paul Epstein. “As the oldest race on the beach and one of the most loved in the area, excitement has begun to build as the word is getting out. And to kick things off early, we’re offering a huge discount for the first 100 participants to sign up.”

The first 100 runners to register will pay only $30 and all participants will get a traditional Bushwacker 5k tank top and will be invited to legendary Bushwacker 5k beach party with great prizes, live beach music and of course, Bushwackers, the tasty frozen drinks.

“Bamboo Willie’s team is excited to partner with Running Wild and The Cap’n Fun Runners to host the Bushwacker 5K and after party on beautiful Pensacola Beach,” said Robert Gleim, Cap’n Fun Runners and managing partner of Bamboo Willies. “We will have a live band playing and our famous Bushwacker Daiquiris in a souvenir cup.”

Event Info

What: Bushwacker 5k
Where: Starts in Gulf Breeze and finishes on Pensacola Beach
When: August 5, 2023
Who can participate: Runners and Walkers
Why: Supporting Cap’n Fun Runner Charities and because it’s just plain fun!