More than 600 runners and walkers took to the runway at North Perry Airport on Saturday morning for the facility’s first-ever 5K race. Participants ran past aircraft displays that included two World War II planes, a private jet and a seaplane capable of landing on water.
The airport, in Pembroke Pines, is home to flight schools and aircraft that tow advertising banners along South Florida beaches. It also houses Local 10’s Sky 10 helicopter, and runners got a look at some of those operations during the morning.
Broward County Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis, who helped bring the event to the airport, said the turnout showed the value of connecting the aviation facility with nearby residents. She said she was grateful for the community’s support.
Rochelle Hampton ran while representing Black Girls Run. She called it amazing to run on a runway where airplanes take off. Despite the heat, all finishers received aviation-themed medals, and Hampton said she felt good about finishing but was ready for some relief from the warm conditions.
