Sports

Florida Savage Race Draws Thousands to Dade City as Orlando Vet Miguel Morales Pushes Limits

Published

7 months ago

November 2, 2025

Orlando Navy Veteran Miguel Morales proudly holds his Savage Blitz medal after completing the 3+ mile Savage Race in Dade City, Pasco County, Florida, on Saturday, November 1, 2025. Photo by J. Willie David, III / Florida National News

DADE CITY, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — Florida National News was on location as over 4,300 athletes and thrill-seekers descended upon Dade City in Pasco County, Florida, for the Florida Savage Race, one of the most demanding obstacle endurance challenges in the world. Among the determined finishers was Orlando Navy Veteran Miguel Morales, who marked his 40th birthday by pushing his body and mind to the limit in the name of grit, fitness, and celebration.

Florida National News highlights Orlando Navy veteran Miguel Morales ahead of Veterans Day (Tuesday, November 11, 2025).

Participants leap over a fire pit just before crossing the finish line at the Florida Savage Race in Dade City, Pasco County, Florida, on Saturday, November 1, 2025. Photo by J. Willie David, III / Florida National News

A Test of Strength, Strategy, and Endurance

The Savage Race (5–7 miles) and its shorter version, the Savage Blitz (3+ miles), are no ordinary obstacle courses. Competitors face between 20 to 30 world-class obstacles, including Colossus, a towering slide challenge, and Sawtooth, the iconic monkey-bar gauntlet suspended over water. This year’s event also introduced brand-new 2025 obstacles, testing racers’ agility, teamwork, and mental toughness.

With mud pits, barbed wire, fire, and ice, every part of the course demanded endurance and courage. Participants who completed multiple races earned the coveted Savage Syndicate medal and pins, a symbol of elite-level accomplishment within the obstacle racing community.

The event also welcomed kids races, spectators, and first-time athletes, turning Dade City into a festival of adrenaline and community. The influx of visitors provided a measurable boost to the local economy, filling hotels, restaurants, and retail stores across Pasco County.

Orlando Navy Veteran Miguel Morales tackles one of the endurance obstacles during the Florida Savage Race in Dade City, Pasco County, Florida, on Saturday, November 1, 2025. Photo by J. Willie David, III / Florida National News

Miguel Morales: From Navy Service to Savage Strength

For Miguel Morales, the Savage Blitz was more than just a race — it was a personal milestone. The Orlando-based Navy veteran and fitness enthusiast has competed in Tough Mudder and numerous Spartan events, including the Spartan Hurricane and Spartan Deka races across the United States, earning multiple medals that showcase his unwavering dedication to discipline, endurance, and perseverance.

“This race pushed me in new ways,” Morales shared with Florida National News. “It’s about mental toughness as much as physical ability. You learn a lot about yourself when you’re out there fighting through every obstacle.”

Morales’ participation symbolizes the resilience and perseverance of veterans who transition from military life to personal fitness missions, inspiring others to overcome challenges both on and off the course.

Participant leap out of the water pit at the starting line at the Florida Savage Race in Dade City, Pasco County, Florida, on Saturday, November 1, 2025. Photo by J. Willie David, III / Florida National News

Savage Syndicate

The Savage Syndicate is a loyalty program created to honor Savage Race’s most dedicated and adventurous participants—the ones who go above and beyond by competing in multiple races each calendar year.

These athletes are the heartbeat of the Savage community, traveling across the country to take on the newest and toughest obstacles, including the towering Colossus, the daring plunge of Davy Jones’ Locker, the icy shock of Shriveled Richard, and the spinning challenge of Wheel World.

By running more than one event annually, participants earn exclusive Syndicate medals, pins, and recognition for their commitment, endurance, and passion for pushing limits. The Savage Syndicate isn’t just a reward program—it’s a badge of honor for those who live the Savage spirit year-round.

What’s Next for Savage Race?

Following another record-breaking year in attendance and participation, Savage Race continues to expand its footprint across the U.S. and Florida. Organizers plan to unveil new obstacle innovations in 2026, while exploring regional expansion to bring the event closer to more communities.

Future races will also enhance the family and spectator experience, introducing more interactive zones, youth races, and partnerships with local fitness groups and veteran organizations — reinforcing Savage Race’s commitment to community, fitness, and adventure.

To learn more visit: Savagerace.com

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News@FloridaNationalNews.com

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GM Brands Dominate Detroit as Cadillac and Corvette Capture IMSA Chevrolet Detroit Sports Car Classic Wins

Published

2 weeks ago

May 31, 2026

FNN NEWS

DETROIT (FNN SPORTS) — Cadillac and Chevrolet celebrated a historic hometown sweep Saturday as both General Motors brands captured class victories in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship’s Chevrolet Detroit Sports Car Classic.

Competing in the shadow of General Motors’ Renaissance Center headquarters along the Detroit Riverwalk, the No. 31 Cadillac Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R driven by Jack Aitken and Earl Bamber dominated the 100-minute race to secure the overall victory and Grand Touring Prototype (GTP) class win.

In Grand Touring Daytona Pro (GTD PRO), Antonio Garcia and Alexander Sims powered the No. 3 Corvette Racing by Pratt Miller Motorsports Corvette Z06 GT3.R to victory, giving Chevrolet a celebrated win on its home turf.

Cadillac Continues Detroit Dominance

The No. 31 Cadillac controlled the race from start to finish, executing a near-flawless performance in front of General Motors executives, employees, and supporters.

The victory marked Cadillac’s fifth IMSA triumph in Detroit, adding to previous wins in 2017, 2018, 2021, and 2022. The result also extended the No. 31 team’s streak to seven consecutive GTP podium finishes.

“To do it here at the home of GM and Cadillac with so many friends and family with us, my team absolutely nailed it,” Aitken said after the race.

The No. 25 BMW M Team WRT BMW M Hybrid V8 finished second in class, while the No. 10 Cadillac Wayne Taylor Racing Cadillac V-Series.R completed the GTP podium.

Meanwhile, the No. 93 Acura Meyer Shank Racing with Curb Agajanian Acura ARX-06 earned the IMSA Michelin Sustainability in Racing Award with its fourth-place finish.

Corvette Capitalizes on Late-Race Drama

While Cadillac’s victory was largely under control, the GTD PRO race featured significant late-race drama.

Garcia nearly lost the lead when Jack Hawksworth attempted a pass entering Turn 1 in the No. 14 Vasser Sullivan Racing Lexus RC F GT3. Contact between the two cars triggered a penalty against Hawksworth, whose Lexus received a drive-through penalty for incident responsibility.

Despite the pressure, Garcia maintained control on the final restart to secure his first IMSA victory in Detroit and the 32nd IMSA win of his career.

“Super happy to be in victory lane in Chevrolet land,” Garcia said. “I think all the big bosses will be very happy, as we are. It was a fantastic drive by Alex, who put the car on pole and opened a big gap early.”

The late-race chaos opened the door for the No. 9 Pfaff Motorsports Lamborghini Temerario GT3 driven by Andrea Caldarelli and Sandy Mitchell to earn the new car’s first podium finish in second place.

The No. 65 Ford Mustang GT3 driven by Christopher Mies and Frederic Vervisch rounded out the GTD PRO podium in third.

Championship Battle Tightens Heading to Watkins Glen

Both class winners started from the Motul Pole Award position and successfully converted pole into victory despite two late caution periods that reshuffled the field and intensified competition during the closing laps.

The victory unofficially moves Aitken into the lead of the GTP championship standings, while the No. 4 Corvette pairing of Nicky Catsburg and Tommy Milner maintains the GTD PRO points lead, though by a reduced margin.

The IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship returns June 28 for the Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen at Watkins Glen International, one of the premier endurance races on the North American sports car calendar.

Sports

Dolphins Announce Free 2026 NFL Draft Watch Parties in Fort Lauderdale and Miami

Published

2 months ago

April 16, 2026

FNN SPORTS

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — The Miami Dolphins will host their 2026 NFL Draft Party presented by Bud Light on Thursday, April 23 at 7 p.m. ET, offering fans two locations across South Florida to watch the first round of the NFL Draft.

The free events will take place at The Wharf Fort Lauderdale and Regatta Grove, providing fans in Broward and Miami-Dade counties an opportunity to gather and celebrate as the draft unfolds.

DRAFT PARTY DETAILS AND FAN EXPERIENCE

Te events are free and open to the public, with fans encouraged to reserve their spots in advance due to limited capacity. Activities will include interactive games, giveaways, photo opportunities, and appearances by the Dolphins mascot and cheerleaders.

Both venues will also feature live panel discussions with current players and team alumni, offering insight, analysis and personal stories related to the draft.

Season ticket members will receive select complimentary food and beverage offerings during the event.

DOLPHINS’ STRONG DRAFT POSITION

Miami enters the 2026 NFL Draft with significant capital, holding 11 total selections, including two first-round picks at Nos. 11 and 30.

The team also holds a second-round pick (No. 43), four third-round selections (Nos. 75, 87, 90 and 94), a fourth-round pick (No. 130), a fifth-round pick (No. 151) and two seventh-round picks (Nos. 227 and 238).

With seven selections in the top 100, this marks one of the franchise’s most anticipated drafts in recent years.

COUNTDOWN TO THE NFL DRAFT

The draft party marks the start of the team’s one-week countdown to the 2026 NFL Draft, as fans prepare to see how Miami builds its roster for the upcoming season.

The dual-location format is designed to expand fan access and engagement across South Florida, bringing together supporters for a shared viewing experience.

Sports

Las Vegas to Host Super Bowl LXIII at Allegiant Stadium in 2029, NFL Announces

Published

2 months ago

March 30, 2026

Willie David

NEW YORK (FNN SPORTS) — The National Football League announced that Las Vegas will host Super Bowl LXIII in 2029 at Allegiant Stadium, marking the second time the city will stage the league’s championship game.

The announcement was made during the NFL’s Annual Meeting in Phoenix, following a review by the league’s Fan Engagement & Major Events Committee and a vote by NFL team owners.

“We’re excited to bring the Super Bowl back to Las Vegas and provide our fans another incredible experience in one of America’s greatest sports and entertainment destinations,” said Roger Goodell, commissioner of the NFL. “Super Bowl LVIII demonstrated the scale, energy and hospitality the city brings to global events, and we look forward to working alongside the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, the Raiders and the community to deliver an even greater experience this time around.”

LAS VEGAS RETURNS AS SUPER BOWL HOST

The 2029 championship will mark the second Super Bowl hosted in Las Vegas. The city debuted as a Super Bowl host in 2024 with Super Bowl LVIII, which attracted more than 330,000 visitors and generated over $1 billion in economic impact, according to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority.

“We’re proud the NFL has selected Las Vegas to host Super Bowl LXIII,” said Steve Hill, president and CEO of the LVCVA. “Our first Super Bowl showcased the unique energy and scale only this destination can offer, bringing together world-class sports, entertainment and hospitality in one place. Las Vegas was built for moments like this, and we look forward to delivering another exceptional experience for fans in 2029.”

RAIDERS, COMMUNITY PREPARE FOR GLOBAL EVENT

Las Vegas Raiders owner Mark Davis said the return of the Super Bowl reflects the success of the city’s first hosting effort and the collaboration between the NFL, local leaders and the community.

“It’s a testament to the Raiders, the LVCVA, civic leaders, the community and the NFL working together,” Davis said. “Super Bowl LVIII set a high bar, and for Super Bowl LXIII we are committed to raising it even further.”

FAN EXPERIENCES AND HOSPITALITY PROGRAMS

In the lead-up to Super Bowl LXIII, Las Vegas will host a series of major events across the metropolitan area, including NFL Honors, Super Bowl Experience, and Super Bowl Opening Night, along with community initiatives such as NFL Source, the league’s procurement program supporting local and underrepresented businesses.

Meanwhile, On Location, the NFL’s official hospitality partner, has launched its Priority Access deposit program for Super Bowl LXIII hospitality packages. The program offers fans early access to premium seating, exclusive entertainment, luxury hospitality experiences and other curated game-day packages.