About Florida Road Races

Florida Road Races has always been a family-owned and operated race management company, organizing running events in the Tampa Bay area. Founded in 1979 by Chris and Rya Lauber, their mission was to offer the most “runner-friendly” races while promoting a healthy, active lifestyle, showcasing our beautiful beach communities, and generating a positive economic impact.

During the summer of 2022, the Laubers announced their “semi-retirement” from road race management and announced that new race directors, Mike and Elaine Clark, would be taking over the reins for four of the five races under the Florida Road Races banner:
• Ft. De Soto Distance Classic in September
• Florida Halloween Distance Classic in October
• Florida Holiday Distance Classic in December
• Florida Shamrock Distance Classic in March

Like the Laubers, the Clarks are a husband-and-wife team with complementary strengths in creating and producing races. Whereas the Lauber’s catchall motto has always been “Make It Happen,” the Clark’s approach is “Whatever It Takes!”

Mike and Elaine have 20 years of experience in endurance event production. They created “Junction 311 Endurance Sports” in 2013 to produce running events in the Triad region of North Carolina. Since then, they have expanded to Charlotte, Atlanta, and Gulf Shores, AL. The Clarks own, produce, or manage 20+ events per year in those states, and will now be adding Florida to their race portfolio.

“Chris and Rya have built some amazing events with Florida Road Races,” said Mike. “We are very excited to work with them and continue to grow these great races. We will also add new events once we settle into Pinella County.”

Due to the size, complexities, and still-formative status, the Laubers will continue producing the St. Petersburg Distance Classic as a first-class signature event for St. Petersburg, Pinellas County, and the Tampa Bay running community.

The Laubers and the Clarks will continue to collaborate under the Florida Road Races banner with regards to the Starfish Race Series and joint marketing efforts.

Photo: Chris and Rya Lauber have passed the baton to Elaine and Mike Clark.