PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WMBB) – People were breaking a sweat at the beach all to help save the turtles.

Gulf World Marine Institute had its 3rd annual Making Turtle Tracks 5K fundraiser.

Bright and early over a hundred people strapped on their running shoes and either walked or ran on the beach.

The event was located right behind the Barefoot Hide-A-Way restaurant.

At the starting point, the marine institute had its tent set up with swag bags, t-shirts, and food for the runners.

All the funds from the 5K go towards the Gulf World Marine Institute’s sea turtle and marine mammal rehabilitation program.

“As you can imagine, medical expenses are high for any type of animal you’re working with. Sea turtles are no exception. And this is just a great way to get the community out. A lot of people love a good 5K walk/run and get them out onto our beautiful beaches. We do it right on the sandy beach, which is cool,” Gulf World Marine Institute’s Stranding Coordinator Lauren Albrittain said.

During their run, participants also got to learn new things about wildlife.

SPONSORS:

FLORIDA WATERSPORTS

SUNSET EAGLE AVIATION, LLC

PANAMA CITY BEACH TURTLE WATCH

RUDY’S

INHOUSE INK

KEEP PCB BEAUTIFUL

PANHANDLE AQUASCAPES AND LANDSCAPING

HALFHITCH