The annual JOG N JAM 10K/5K/Kids’ Run on Nov. 1 brought together runners and the Sanibel-Captiva community for a morning filled with fitness, fun, and giving back. This year’s event welcomed an impressive 505 registered runners from across Florida, the Northeast, Midwest, and Southwest, as well as international participants from Canada, Denmark, Italy and Great Britain.
“We had perfect weather and couldn’t have asked for a greater turnout,” said Leah Winkler, FISH Board Member and Committee Chair. “It’s incredible to see participants from across the globe come together to support our mission—we’re truly honored to be represented worldwide.”
The races began promptly at 7:30 a.m. with greetings from Mayor Michael Miller and FISH Executive Director Maria Espinoza, followed by a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem by local eighth-grader Ava Wodjeski. Both the 10K and 5K courses followed a scenic route across Sanibel, starting and finishing at the Sanibel Community House. The Kids Fun Run wrapped up the morning festivities, with nearly 40 young participants receiving finisher ribbons and ice cream coupons generously provided by Pinocchio’s.
FISH of SanCap is deeply grateful to the many individuals and organizations who made this year’s event such a success, including sponsors, volunteers, participants, and raffle donors. “We are incredibly thankful for the outstanding support from businesses both on and off the islands,” said Winkler. “Their generosity and commitment were truly unmatched—we couldn’t have done it without them.”
Highlights from this year included expanded sponsor involvement — 113 sponsors at various levels, including raffle basket donors — 17 team competitors, a record number of raffle baskets, and the addition of digital goodie bags, offering special discounts from local businesses to encourage participants to stay and enjoy the island after the race.
The JOG N JAM raffle remains open until the evening of December 6. Community members can visit the FISH table at the Sanibel Island Farmers Market or contact the organization directly for raffle tickets. Raffle basket contents can be found on the organization’s website, https://fishofsancap.org/news-events/jog-n-jam/jog-n-jam-raffle/
FISH also reminds everyone that the fun isn’t over yet—JOG N JAM continues with the beach concert at ‘Tween Waters, Captiva on December 6 featuring the Ben Allen Band. Event sponsorships are still available, concert tickets will remain on sale through the evening of the concert, and the FISH team is fine-tuning every detail to make the JAM absolutely stellar.
“We’re extremely proud of everyone who helped make this year’s JOG N JAM race such a success,” said Maria Espinoza, Executive Director. “From the runners and volunteers to our incredible sponsors and staff—this event truly showcases the best of our community spirit. Every dollar raised helps us continue providing essential services and disaster recovery assistance to our neighbors.”
For complete race results and finish line videos, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/Results/146120#resultSetId-603834;perpage:100.
To view a full list of sponsors, visit https://fishofsancap.org/news-events/jog-n-jam/sponsorships/
FISH of SanCap is a social service nonprofit organization whose mission is to enrich the lives of all people on Sanibel and Captiva Islands by neighbors helping neighbors through senior services, education, and assistance. Net proceeds from JOG N JAM directly support the programs and services of FISH.
