Thousands of runners laced up their sneakers Sunday morning for the 48th annual Gasparilla Distance Classic, turning Bayshore Boulevard into a sea of runners chasing their goals. For some athletes, like first-place female finisher Meghan Strum, Tampa's weather was a welcome change. "This is the first time I've run on ground without snow on it for months. It's amazing, I'm so happy," she beamed after crossing the finish line. While the runners came from all over to soak up the Florida sunshine, half marathon winner Grant Colligan reminded everyone about the bigger picture. "People forget that these races aren't just for enjoyment — they're fundraisers more than anything else," he said. And what a difference these races have made. Race Director Susan Harmeling shared some impressive numbers — since 1978, they've poured $6.6 million into local charities like Boys and Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay, Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Friends of Tampa Recreation.