As his name proudly states, the chart topping artist known as Flo-Rida will be returning to his home state as he goes from the club to the finish line, performing at the inaugural Rock ‘n’ Roll St. Pete Half Marathon on Sunday, February 12, 2012. More than 8,000 runners are expected for the unique running event that combines entertainment and fitness, showcasing live, local bands every mile of the course, enthusiastic cheerleaders and thousands of motivating spectators.

Born Tramar Dillard, Flo Rida was raised by a single mother in a rough neighborhood near Miami. Music helped Flo Rida stay on the straight path with the encouragement of his father, a talented musician, and his sisters, who performed as a local gospel group.

Today, the Florida-born rapper has become a chart fixture thanks to the blockbuster singles “Low (feat. T-Pain),” “Right Round,” the David Guetta-produced “Club Can’t Handle Me,” and his most recent Platinum hit “Good Feeling.” Last December, the Miami native released his brand new single “Wild Ones,” featuring Australian songstress, Sia. Flo Rida’s experiences traveling the globe were featured on his third album, Only One Flo (Part 1) and he’s currently working on his fourth album, Only One Rida (Part 2).

The inaugural race will start at Tropicana Field, home of the Tampa Bay Rays, before a scenic tour through the beloved galleries, diverse restaurants and eclectic shops in the Grand Central District and past Albert Whitted Park, the famed Dali Museum, and Al Lang Stadium. Runners will enjoy an out and back on the famous St. Pete Pier and feel the ocean breeze as they pass the majestic Vinoy Renaissance  Resort all the way to the Snell Isle Vinoy Country Club. After crossing the finish line, participants can dip their toes in the water at North Shore Park and turn their running shoes into dancing shoes as Flo-Rida gets the post-race party started.

For those who want to get in on the fun without running 13.1 miles, a Spectator Block Party will offer free refreshments, live entertainment and a ride to the finish line. Friends and family are invited to cheer on their favorite runner at the start line and then head to Fusion 1560 and Ferg’s Sports Bar & Grill across the street from the start village, located between miles 3 and 4 on the course.

Ferg’s Sports Bar will also host the Official Rock ‘n’ Roll St. Pete Pasta Party, giving runners the chance to carbo-load together on Saturday, February 11th from 6:00-8:00pm. Tickets are limited and are available for $20. More information is available online at Competitor.com

Race weekend kicks off on Friday, February 10th with a two-day Health & Fitness Expo at Tropicana Field, home of the Major League Baseball’s Tampa Bay Rays. The Expo, which will be free and open to the public, will showcase the latest in running products and services with interactive clinics from fitness experts.

Known for an electrifying combination of fitness and entertainment, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series now runs in 27 cities across the world, with events held in the U.S. and 5 international destinations. For more information, visit Competitor.com.