Track Shack Hosts 2025 Celebration of Running 5K: Honoring 48 Years of Fitness, Community, Competition
By Space Coast Daily // August 21, 2025
Chris Cabret and Erica Weitz claimed first place
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA — The Track Shack Celebration of Running 5k, one of Central Florida’s most beloved running traditions, drew thousands of collegiate athletes, families, and community members on Saturday, August 16, as it marked the 48th anniversary of Track Shack, Orlando’s iconic family-owned running store.
This year’s race once again highlighted the spirit of fitness, community, and philanthropy while shining a spotlight on both elite competition and grassroots participation.
Related Story:Eastern Florida State College Runners Shine at Track Shack’s Celebration of Running 5K
The event produced fast finishes and thrilling competition as both seasoned runners and rising talents took to the streets of Orlando. On the men’s side, Chris Cabret claimed first place with a time of 15:41.1, followed by Daniel Beckstead at 15:52.2 and Alexander Colon at 16:00.3.
Among the women, Erica Weitz took the top spot in 17:40.20, with Christina Welsh close behind at 17:44.22 and Sinkenesh Parker finishing third in 18:18.26. These outstanding performances exemplify the high level of athleticism that the Celebration of Running 5k attracts each year, inspiring both participants and spectators alike.
A special highlight of this year’s race was the participation of athletes from Eastern Florida State College. Runners Joshua Marrero, Pedro Sanchez, and Jason Roldan delivered remarkable performances that captured the hearts of the running community.
Their presence reinforced the Celebration of Running’s reputation as not only a community event but also a proving ground for competitive runners across Florida. The EFSC running program continues to thrive, with athletes already preparing for their next series race in Casselberry on September 27.
This upcoming competition promises to build on their recent success and keep the momentum strong for the fall racing season.
“This race was more than just a competition. It was an opportunity for our runners, including myself, to test ourselves and represent Eastern Florida State College on a big stage,” said Pedro Sanchez. “We are excited to carry this momentum into the next series race in Casselberry this September.”
The race also marked a milestone for Track Shack, Orlando’s family-owned running store, which has been a cornerstone of the local fitness community since 1977. Over the past 48 years, Track Shack has provided quality footwear, expert guidance, and organized world-class running events that inspire thousands each year.
The 2025 Track Shack Celebration of Running 5k also served as a meaningful fundraiser, benefiting two distinguished organizations. The Orlando Science Center, a leading institution dedicated to inspiring science learning for life, engages curious learners of all ages across Central Florida and beyond, fueling innovation, creativity, and discovery.
The Track Shack Youth Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, promotes health and fitness throughout the community with a special emphasis on youth programs. By supporting initiatives that encourage active lifestyles, the foundation continues to build a healthier future for children and families across the region.
Through this charitable partnership, every stride taken on race day contributed to empowering the next generation of thinkers, leaders, and athletes. “Track Shack is more than a running store; it is a cornerstone of Orlando’s fitness culture,” said Natalie Casey, VP of Communications. “For nearly five decades, we’ve been honored to keep our community fit, motivated, and inspired through events like the Celebration of Running.”
