Copper Collar 5K, presented by the Man in the Sea Museum
Sat, Nov 14, 2026, 4:00 AM CST
- Distance
- 5K
- Type
- Run
Finish signup on the organizer site (check fees and dates there).
Race feel
Run a fast, flat 5K through historic downtown Panama City, celebrating America's 250th and honoring military diving heritage.
- Fun
- Competitive
- Quirky
- Festive
- For a Cause
Fun
Competitive
Quirky
Festive
For a CauseGreat for
- Military & First Responders
Military & First RespondersDive into history with the Copper Collar 5K, a legendary race celebrating military diving heritage since 1982. Now in its second year in downtown Panama City, this event combines fast streets with local energy. It's a special occasion, proudly joining America's 250th Birthday celebration, honoring the spirit and resilience that shaped our country. Known as 'The Original Heavy Metal 5K,' it pays tribute to the iconic copper diving helmets, symbolizing grit and exploration. This run is a meaningful way to get active, honor service, and support the Man in the…
What to expect
- Experience a chip-timed 5K run or walk on a fast, flat course.
- Enjoy a post-race celebration with music, refreshments, and museum exhibits.
- Receive a commemorative race shirt and gift bag.
Standout details
- The Original Heavy Metal 5K
- Honors military diving heritage
- America's 250th Birthday celebration
- Supports Man in the Sea Museum
Perks & features
- After-Party
- Awards
- Chip Timed
After-Party
Awards
Chip TimedFrom the public listing; confirm on the official site.
Summaries use public event text. Confirm schedule, fees, and rules on the official page before you sign up.
From the organizer
COPPER COLLAR 5K — The Original Heavy Metal 5K
Hosted by the Man in the Sea Museum & the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center:
Downtown Panama City, Florida
Get ready to lace up and dive into history with the Copper Collar 5K, a legendary race making waves since 1982! Originally created by the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center, this iconic run has traveled through Navy base roads and the trails of St. Andrews State Park for decades.
Now in our second year downtown, we’re bringing that same deep-sea tradition to the heart of Panama City—combining fast streets, local energy, and the rich heritage of military diving.
🌟 2026: A Special Celebration — America’s 250th Birthday! As the nation commemorates 250 years of American independence, the Copper Collar 5K proudly joins the celebration. This year’s race honors not only the legacy of military divers but also the spirit, courage, and resilience that have shaped our country since 1776. There’s no better way to kick off America’s 250th than with a run that honors service, history, and community.
💪 Why “The Original Heavy Metal 5K”? The Copper Collar pays tribute to the iconic copper diving helmets worn by Navy divers—symbols of grit, endurance, and the spirit of exploration. Whether you’re a runner, a supporter of our military, or just looking for a meaningful way to get active, this event has something for everyone.
🎽 Participants Receive: Chip‑timed 5K run or walk A fast, flat course through historic downtown Panama City Commemorative race shirts and gift bags Awards for top finishers Post‑race celebration with music, refreshments, and museum exhibits The chance to support the Man in the Sea Museum and its mission to preserve America’s underwater history 🎉 Join us as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and run toward the future—Copper Collar style. Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with us!
If you’re unable to attend but would still like to support the Man in the Sea Museum, please consider clicking the Donate button on our website.
Interested in sponsoring the event? Email Steve Mulholland at info@maninthesea.org