Ready, set, GO: OCSO celebrates the extended Pine Hills Trail

Bubbles drifted through the morning air. Music from the DJ wafted in the breeze. Five-hundred legs ran, jogged, walked. An aura of active anticipation engulfed the area.

That was the scene at the Pine Hills Trail 5K Fun Run and Walk on June 15.

The Florida weather showed mercy in celebration of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office’s inaugural annual event. The 250 participants enjoyed temperatures in the 80s as they hit the new Pine Hills Trail. Orange County commissioner Victoria Siplin and additional visitors – even the sheriffs’ noble horses — attended the celebration.

Best Foot Forward was there and paired with its Orange County partners to educate participants on pedestrian and bicycle safety. Table visitors received materials, like magnets, flyers and comic books, to take back to their friends and families. BFF also shared tips for street safety and answered questions about Florida pedestrian and bicycle laws.

Other local groups made appearances at the 5K. Walmart, a major sponsor of the event, distributed food and drinks to help recharge runners after the race. The company also raffled off bicycles to 12 lucky winners toward the end of the occasion.

Additionally, Sheriff John Mina recognized Bike/Walk Central Florida with a certificate of appreciation for its contribution to the event. BWCF and Orange County gave out free bike helmets to the raffle winners and any anyone else who needed one.

By noon, the sun was high, temps were climbing and the affair was complete. But don’t worry, everyone will be back again next year for the second annual event.