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Runners take on 4th of July 5K challenge as heat wave continues

MANDARIN, Fla. – Many people prepared for Fourth of July celebrations on Tuesday morning, while dozens got a head start by taking part in the Celebration 5K at First Place Sports in Mandarin.

The race went on, despite a heat wave that has enveloped the First Coast for more than a week. A heat advisory is expected to go into effect later on Tuesday.

Organizers stressed the importance of staying hydrated, especially when temperatures are expected to climb.

Umesh Patel, who ran in the 5K, said he didn’t even think about the heat.

“The crowd is so energetic, and the community is so supportive along the way, you don’t even think about the heat,” Patel said. “You’re enjoying the moment.”

It’s the first race of the 2023 to 2024 Grand Prix season.

The Celebration 5K supports high school cross country and track programs in Duval County and the summer camp scholarship program.

The race wraps up with a watermelon eating contest, where people can catch their breath and enjoy a fresh, water-filled treat.


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Amanda DeVoe joined the News4JAX team in March 2022 as a morning news and traffic anchor

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