The 2026–2027 Track Shack Running Series presented by AdventHealth, invites you to “Chase the Feeling.”
That feeling at the starting line.
The rhythm of your stride.
The energy of the crowd.
The moment you cross the finish line knowing you gave it your all.
Every participant knows the feeling, and each one chases it for their own reason.
Through our Fanatic Spotlight, we celebrate the participants who embody this theme. From first-time Fanatics to long-time series veterans, these individuals remind us why we keep showing up, for the joy of movement, the sense of accomplishment, the friendships formed along the way, and the moments that make every mile worth it.
Registration is open for the 2026–2027 Running Series. Be a Fanatic and chase the feeling at every start line, every finish line, and every moment in between.
Laura's Journey: Finding Motivation Through Running
For Laura Tomlin, being a Fanatic is about more than completing races. After five years in the Track Shack Running Series, each event continues to provide the motivation, community, and excitement that keep her coming back.
While signing up for the series can feel intimidating at first, Laura encourages others to take that first step. "After you get through the first race, it boosts your energy and excitement to get to the next one," she said.
Running has become an important part of Laura's life, supporting both her physical and mental well-being while connecting her with a community she now considers family. "My friends are now my family," she shared.
For Laura, success isn't always measured by a finish time. Sometimes it's running with a friend she hasn't seen in years. Other times it's encouraging a family member to join her at the starting line. The goals may change from race to race, but they always provide a reason to get moving.
"I like to plan my races six months to a year out," Laura said. "Every race that I do is just practice for the next one."
Rochelle, Amber, and Lisa's First Year as Fanatics: A Commitment to Themselves
For Rochelle, Amber, and Lisa, signing up for the Running Series Fanatic became about more than medals and miles. The series helped spark meaningful lifestyle changes, from improving fitness to breaking out of sedentary routines.
Taking on six races across varying distances brought a strong sense of accomplishment. Even when a few races became virtual, they stayed committed to crossing every finish line together.
“You’re given one body in life,” Rochelle explained. “Taking care of yourself is a commitment to yourself.”
What keeps them coming back is the camaraderie found at every event. “There’s nothing like Track Shack Fanatics,” they shared. “The people, the energy, the crew cheering you on. They make you want to come back and do the next one.”
After completing their first season as Fanatics, the trio has one message for anyone thinking about getting started: “Get involved, get active, get moving. Register for the series. It’s fun. You’ll love it.”
Robert's Journey: Bonding with Family and the Community
Robert is a lifelong runner who began striving for improvement in spring of 2024. Since then, Robert placed fourth overall and achieved his personal best time of 16:32 at the Battle of the Bands 5K in 2025.
For Robert, one of the best parts of the Track Shack Running Series is the diversity of runners on the course. ‘It’s great to compete alongside serious runners while also seeing people of all levels chasing their own running goals.
The Running Series has also given Robert a space to bond with his family while encouraging them to stay active. “I love the kids runs as they allow my children to also feel involved as I am trying to inspire my whole family to pursue a healthy lifestyle.”
Robert’s story is a lesson in fostering both personal growth and togetherness.
