Thousands run in Gasparilla Distance Classic races

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Thousands of runners hit the pavement Saturday morning for the Gasparilla Distance Classic  road races.

The annual races attract a huge crowd of runners from the Tampa Bay area and beyond.

The 15K race began around 6:45 a.m., while the 5K started around 9:15 a.m.

The half marathon and 8K races will take place on Sunday.

The 2016 Gasparilla Distance Classic races could break attendance records, according to executive director Susan Harmeling.