2025 Round The Bay Relay And Ultra

The 15th Annual Round the Bay Relay and Ultra will take place on Saturday, December 27, 2025, around the scenic Choctawhatchee Bay in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. This exciting event will feature a relay format with 6 unofficial legs and an ultra race for solo participants, as well as a 5K recovery run dubbed the "Bloody Mary Beach Recovery Run." Participants can expect mild winter weather, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to low 70s Fahrenheit, providing an ideal setting for running. The course will challenge runners with a mix of terrain including 7 bridges, 9 hills, and 4 bayous, while offering stunning views of the bay. The start line is located at The Island Hotel, with the finish line and post-race party at the Elks Lodge, just a short distance away.

What is the event format for the Round the Bay Relay and Ultra?

• →Relay (6 unofficial legs)
• →Ultra (solo)
• →5K Recovery Run ("Bloody Mary Beach Recovery Run")

What is the course like for the event?

The course runs around Choctawhatchee Bay, passing through Destin, Bluewater, Niceville, Valparaiso, Shalimar, and Fort Walton Beach. It includes 7 bridges, 9 hills, and 4 bayous.

When does the event take place?

The event is scheduled for Saturday, December 27, 2025.

Where does the event start and finish?

• →Start Line: The Island Hotel, 1500 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL
• →Finish Line & Post-Race Party: Elks Lodge, 1335 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL

What are the start times for participants?

• →Ultra Runners Start Times: 4:00, 4:30, 5:00, 5:30, or 6:00 AM (must notify race director if earlier start needed)
• →Relay Teams Start: Staggered start at 6:00 AM

What are the cutoff times for the event?

• →Relay teams must finish by 12:30 PM
• →Ultra finish line open until 12:45 PM

How many participants are allowed in the relay teams?

Relay teams are typically 6-person teams, but flexible arrangements can be made with as few as 2 and as many as 30 participants.

What are the registration fees for the Relay and Ultra?

Relay Team Pricing (36.8 miles)

• →2-Person Team: $70
• →3-Person Team: $105
• →4-Person Team: $140
• →5-Person Team: $175
• →6-Person Team: $210

Ultra (Solo) Pricing

• →Ultra (36.8 miles, solo): $55

When do registration prices increase?

All categories will increase after November 30, 2025, at 11:59 PM CST.

What amenities are included with registration?

Participants can expect a post-race party at the finish line, which will include refreshments and entertainment.

What should participants consider regarding the weather?

The expected weather conditions for December 27 in Fort Walton Beach are mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to low 70s Fahrenheit, making it comfortable for outdoor running.

Are there any awards or prizes for participants?

Details regarding awards and prizes will be announced closer to the event date, typically celebrating top finishers in each category.