Hundreds gather for ‘Run With the Rays 5K’ to raise hurricane recovery funds [Video]

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — When Mother Nature threw a curveball at the Tampa Bay area, the community hit it out of the park. Hundreds of people gathered in St. Petersburg Saturday morning for the annual Run with the Rays 5K, turning their morning jog into a mission of hope for hurricane survivors.

Outside Tropicana Field, runners stepped up to the plate in the crisp morning air. Among them was Silvy Padilla, who saw the event as a chance for personal growth. 

“Just trying to get healthy. 2025 is the year,” she said with determination.

As the Tampa Bay area continues to recover from hurricanes Helene and Milton, these athletes are swinging for the fences. 

Laura Nelson, a local runner, shared her enthusiasm for the dual purpose of the event. 

“I love …