An island tradition that perfectly blends history, competition, and community charity is gearing up for its biggest year yet. The Friends of Randy of Sanibel (FOROS) have officially opened team registration for the 46th Annual 4th of July Road Rally.
Scheduled to kick off on Saturday, July 4, 2026, this year’s highly anticipated edition will double as a spectacular tribute to the 250th Semiquincentennial anniversary of the United States.
At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we love celebrating the unique traditions that define island life. The Road Rally is the ultimate post-parade event, bringing families and friends together for a hilarious, strategic drive across Sanibel—all while raising critical funds for local island non-profits.
In a nutshell: Registration is officially open for the 46th Annual 4th of July Road Rally, starting at noon at The Timbers Restaurant. The $50-per-team event is a visual scavenger hunt that honors America’s 250th birthday, with this year’s proceeds directly benefiting the Sanibel Sea School and island families.
How the Rally Works: Brains Over Speed
For those new to this six-decade island staple, it is important to know that this is not a speed race. Instead, the Road Rally is a meticulously planned, in-vehicle visual scavenger hunt.
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The Logistics: The rally officially gets underway at noon on July 4, starting at The Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market (703 Tarpon Bay Road).
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The Challenge: Upon arrival, each team is handed a packet containing unique route instructions, a set of cryptic questions, and driving directions. Teams must navigate the island to find hidden visual clues and solve the riddles.
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The Scoring: Winners are determined by a precise scoring matrix that evaluates correct answers, total time, and odometer mileage. The entire driving route is designed to be completed in under two hours.
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The After-Party: The course loops back and finishes right where it started at The Timbers, where a lively post-rally party will be hosted for all competing teams to swap stories and celebrate.
Driving for a Cause: Supporting Island Youth and Education
FOROS is a state-registered non-profit entity, and 100% of the event’s momentum is aimed at local philanthropy.
2026 ROAD RALLY BENEFACTOR BREAKDOWN
[ SANIBEL SEA SCHOOL ] ──► Receives event proceeds to support marine education.
[ CHR FAMILIES ] ──► Receives back-to-school supply donations for local kids.
This year’s team proceeds will directly benefit the Sanibel Sea School to support their hands-on marine conservation programs. Additionally, a dedicated donation will be made to Community Housing & Resources (CHR) families to help local island children gear up with essential back-to-school supplies.
Registration Fees, Sponsorships & Sign-Up Info
The entry fee is $50 per team. Because this is a cornerstone event for America’s 250th birthday, slots are expected to fill up rapidly.
FOROS is also actively seeking corporate sponsors to back the event, as well as local businesses willing to donate small promotional items or prizes to stock the official participant goody bags.
How to Lock In Your Team Spot:
To register your vehicle, secure a sponsorship level, or donate promotional items, reach out directly to the event coordinators:
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Randy Carson: Call 239-699-8739 or email rcarsonsan@gmail.com.
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Allen Dunham: Call 239-699-9474 or email cougar3_33@yahoo.com.
Gather your cleverest co-pilots, decorate your vehicle in your finest red, white, and blue, and let’s make the 46th Road Rally an unforgettable milestone for the island!





