11/13: Kennedy Space Center Saturn 5-K Run

The sounds of rubber soles pounding the pavement will replace those of thunderous rocket engines on Saturday, November 13 when the Inaugural Saturn 5-k run/walk takes place at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The historic event marks the first time a public run - routing runners on a course past full-sized rockets, space shuttle components and much more - has been held at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

Several hundred runners and walkers are anticipated to be on hand for the 7:30 a.m. start that takes participants around the perimeter of the Visitor Complex before bringing them through the Complex and a glorious photo finish in the Rocket Garden.

The Saturn 5k is created and owned by Smooth Running, the producer of the Melbourne & Beaches Music Marathon Weekend and several other of East Central Florida's biggest and most prestigious running and multi-sports events. "The space program is an integral and vital part of our community," said Smooth Running Principal Mitch Varnes. "I am proud to be able to produce this run and at the opportunity to introduce many, many people to a bit of space history and to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex."

The Saturn 5k, named after the mammoth rocket which carted Apollo astronauts on their way to the moon, is presented by Lighting Science Group. "We are excited to be a part of this inaugural event and very happy to support local activities that promote a healthy lifestyle, as well as such important charitable benefactors", said Zach Gibler, Chief Executive Officer, Lighting Science Group.

"It is really exciting to see something like this at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex," said Space Coast Office of Tourism Executive Director Rob Varley. "What runner wouldn't be excited about the chance to run past all the exhibits and then onto a finish in the Rocket Garden. This is another one-of-a-kind event for us that should draw in lots of runners from many areas."

In addition to the Saturn 5k, the event will feature the Space Coast Company Challenge and the Space Coast School Challenge. Businesses and schools are encouraged to pull together teams for some weekend camaraderie and bragging rights as the school with the most students and staff participating will receive a check for $500.00. The business with the most employees entered in the run will receive a check for $500.00 to be given to the charity of its choice. The company and school deemed to have the most spirit at the race will each take home the Space Coast Cup.

"We are very excited to be hosting the Saturn 5k, providing an awe-inspiring location for this inaugural event," said Annette Hogan, Director of Sales and Marketing at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. "What a fun, healthy and educational way for runners and their families to spend a Saturday morning."

In addition to donations being made on behalf of the Space Coast Business and School Challenge, the Saturn 5k has chosen Make A Wish of Florida and Florida Today's Reaching Out Fund to be charitable beneficiaries of the run.

Lighting Science Group's title sponsorship aside, the event enjoys additional support from Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Florida Today, the Space Coast Office of Tourism, State Farm, Ocean Potion, Craig Technologies, Space Coast Credit Union and Brevard Physicians Network.