Naples Airport Runway 5K Draws 600 Runners
The fourth annual race at Naples Airport on November 7, 2026 raised funds for student scholarships.
Updated on Nov. 11, 2026 in Running
More than 600 participants ran the fourth annual Naples Airport Runway 5K and 10K on November 7, 2026, along a course lined with private jets, vintage aircraft and airport facilities. Race plans were approved by the FAA and permitted by the Naples City Council, with Runway 14/32 closed to aircraft during the competition while Runway 05/23 remained open for scheduled departures.
Why it matters
The event brings public access to a working airport and channels race proceeds toward scholarships for student-athletes and aspiring pilots, mechanics and engineers. It also shows how an airfield can host a community event while keeping scheduled flights operating.
The race drew more than 600 participants, with CJ Gustafson winning the men's 5K in 17:15 and Elise Mueller the women's 5K in 18:23. Marvin Meironat posted the fastest men's 10K at 38:04 and Beth Marzigliano the fastest women's 10K at 39:56, while the total scholarship amount raised remains unreported.
The players
Naples Airport (KAPF)
Naples Airport is a public airfield in Southwest Florida that hosts general aviation and scheduled flights.
Federal Aviation Administration
The FAA is the U.S. federal agency that regulates civil aviation and approved the race plans.
The details
Runners completed 5K and 10K courses lined with private jets, vintage aircraft and airport facilities. The FAA approved the race plans and the Naples City Council permitted the event, with Runway 14/32 closed during the race.
Timeline
November 7, 2026: Fourth annual Runway 5K and 10K held at Naples Airport.
Season Trajectory
Airport-hosted road races like the Naples event have grown as general aviation fields seek community engagement and charitable fundraising. The Naples race keeps one runway open for scheduled departures while the other hosts competitors, a configuration that depends on FAA approval.
Runners interested in future editions can watch for registration announcements from the event organizers. Race participation supports scholarships for student-athletes and aspiring pilots, mechanics and engineers.
The takeaway
Airport road races show how general aviation facilities can open their grounds to the public while keeping scheduled flights on track. Readers interested in similar events can look for airport-hosted races in their own region.
Further reading
Find more race coverage in the Running section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by General Aviation News.
