By Kyle LoJacono
Little Everglades Ranch in Dade City is known for its majestic horses and picturesque grass racing tracks. But a new high-adventure challenge is coming to the East Pasco County landmark.
The newest addition to the ranch is the 5-mile-long Savage Race, which debuts Oct. 20. The event is aptly named, as it’s more about the obstruction than the actual distance.
“You are definitely going to spend less time running and more time on the 20 obstacles,” said organizer Sam Abbitt.
Some of those stumbling blocks include a mud pit, barbed wire and holes filled with billowing fire for competitors to jump over. Participants are judged purely on how fast they complete the course.
Savage Races have started popping up around Florida this year. The first two were in Clermont, and Abbitt said they are looking to have them in Atlanta and Austin, Texas, as well.
“It’s a new concept, but something that already has a strong following,” Abbitt said.
Kevin Campbell, the ranch’s event planner, said they will look into having the races regularly into the future.
“If things work out we could have a couple races each year,” Campbell said.
“Abbitt said the races should bring in about 10,000 participants and spectators, many from outside of the area. They have received a $20,000
grant from Pasco’s tourism department to advertise the event across the state to bring in more people.
“It should be a big economic boost to Pasco County and the entire Tampa Bay region,” Abbitt said. “It’s good for the community and is a
lot of fun for the racers.”
The event has various start times between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Oct. 20. Registration is $69 and includes a T-shirt, medal and celebration
after the race. Tickets to watch are $10 plus another $10 for parking. For more information, visit www.savagerace.com.
