Doc Ford’s Yucatán Shrimp 7K 2026: Run for the Refuge on Sanibel

Lacing up your running shoes has never tasted so good—or done so much for our island’s wildlife! In celebration of National Yucatán Shrimp Day, Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille is hosting its second annual Doc Ford’s Yucatán Shrimp 7K on May 23, 2026.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we love events that combine community fun with a great cause. This year, every stride taken at this unique island race will support the continued revitalization of the beloved J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.

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Doc Ford’s Yucatán Shrimp 7K 2026: Why 7 Kilometers?

If you’re wondering why the race is exactly 7K instead of a traditional 5K or 10K, the answer lies in the kitchen. The distance honors the seven key ingredients used to create Doc Ford’s world-famous signature Yucatán shrimp.

Joe Harrity, a partner with the HM Restaurant Group, explained that the event was actually dreamed up by the restaurant’s employees. It was such a hit last year that it has officially become an annual island tradition.

The Race Experience

Open to both runners and walkers, the Doc Ford’s Yucatán Shrimp 7K 2026 begins and ends right at the Sanibel restaurant.

Live Tracking: Timer Lin-Mark Sports will be on-site to text results live as they happen and will even post videos of each participant crossing the finish line.
Awards: Medals will be awarded to the top three male and female runners, as well as top finishers across various age groups.
Prizes: All participants are entered into a drawing for a chance to win a customized Doc Ford’s YETI cooler!

The Post-Run Festivities: Mojitos and Shrimp

The run starts early at 7 a.m., but the real celebration begins when Doc Ford’s opens early at 10 a.m. for the post-race party.

Participants will be treated to:

A complimentary mojito to toast the finish line.
Live chef demonstrations showcasing how to prepare the famous Yucatán shrimp.
A fun event photobooth.
Free drink stations featuring Captains For Clean Water cocktails, sponsored by RNDC.

A huge shoutout goes to the local sponsors making this happen, including Asteria Wellness (sambal sponsor), Fleet Feet Fort Myers (lime sponsor), Cheney Brothers, Finnimore’s Bike & Beach Rentals, Lin-Mark Sports, Sanibel Carts (garlic sponsors), Bailey’s, and On Island (community sponsors).

Running for a Resilient Refuge

The best part of the Doc Ford’s Yucatán Shrimp 7K 2026 is its beneficiary: the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge (DDWS).

DDWS Executive Director Ann-Marie Wildman reports that the proceeds from the race have been specifically earmarked to support the Refuge’s Visitor & Education Center, which has been undergoing long-term post-hurricane refurbishment. The funds will directly supply new furniture, refreshed educational displays, and updated signage.

“Doc Ford’s has been a tremendous community partner for so long,” Wildman noted, highlighting their ongoing 14-year support of the Tarpon Tournament.

“If You Go” Quick Guide

Detail	Information
Event Name	Doc Ford’s National Yucatán Shrimp Day 7K
Date & Time	Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 7:00 a.m.
Location	Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille (2500 Island Inn Road, Sanibel)
Entry Fee	$45 (Ages 11 and older; virtual option available)
Registration Deadline	May 23 at 9:00 a.m.