Move over jetliners: Runners get special access for 5K on the Runway

Many called it a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity on Saturday — darting across the finish line at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport’s newest runway with commercial airliners roaring above and behind them.

About 2,500 participants had special access to the airport’s runway, which opened in September, for the 5K on the Runway that benefited the American Cancer Society.

The event was originally scheduled last summer, but was postponed to ensure the runway was fully prepared to welcome runners.

And when participants reached the vast and empty 8,000-foot runway under gray skies, many took selfies before rushing to the starting line. In the distance, jetliners departed and arrived from another parallel runway.

Maria Cesca, 50, of Coral Springs, said she felt like a human flying machine during the dash. She described the sensation as she ran downhill on the elevated runway, in the breeze that picked up before the rainshower.

“The view you have, the perspective,” she said. “You feel that you are flying. It’s just incredible.”

Michael Sands, a corporate pilot and cancer survivor, was accompanied by a crew who hit the runway wearing his old pilot shirts — none were aviators but they looked the part with uniforms with distinct shoulder accessories.

He said he was happy to be cancer-free and joining in to help others suffering from illnesses.

“Normally, when I’m on the runway, it’s work,” Sands, 53, of Fort Lauderdale, said. “It’s a lot more work running down the runway than it is flying down it.”

Access in and out of a parking lot in a restricted area near the runaway also made for a bumpy ride, causing race participants to wait in traffic. According to Allan Siegel, a spokesman for the Broward County Aviation Department, the traffic tie-ups near the runway were due to its secured and restricted access.

Still, participants had fun with the airport setting, which inspired aviation-themed outfits and props such as toy airplanes. A group of friends who often participate in races and half-marathons dressed up ready to take flight. They dressed as a pilot captain, flight attendant, air-traffic controller and traveler.

“We wanted to support a cause, of course. Also, it’s something exciting. It’s the first time and the only time they’re going to do this,” said Vivian Vacca, 42, who was dressed in a costume.

Tracey and Christian Regan felt the same way, but the runway was not just a novelty setting — they share a passion for flying. She took private flying lessons in the past, and he once aspired to be a pilot.

They were joined by their 3-year-old, Campbell, who often points to planes in the sky.

“We recognize this is something you don’t do day to day,” Christian Regan said. “It’s about doing something special that may or may not happen again.”

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