The City of Palm Coast and the Palm Coast Flagler Health Alliance have announced a new community wellness partnership that will invite residents of all ages to get moving this spring. The first-ever Loving Life Walk-a-thon will run from March 28 through May 2, 2026, giving participants five weeks to walk at their own pace, on their own schedule, at locations of their choosing throughout the community.
The Story Behind the Name
The walk-a-thon was created to honor Nelson Sastoque, the founder of the Palm Coast Flagler Health Alliance, who passed away on September 19, 2025. Sastoque was widely known in the community for his enthusiasm for health, family, and time outdoors. Many residents recognized him as a regular presence at the Southern Recreation Center, where he played pickleball and spent time outside with his grandchildren. His personal motto — “Loving life” — inspired the name of the event and continues to shape the organization’s mission. The Alliance is now led by his daughter, Christina Moreira, who serves as its president.
“We created the Loving Life Walk-a-thon to honor my father’s legacy and the way he encouraged everyone around him to embrace life and stay active,” Moreira said. “The kickoff will take place at the City of Palm Coast’s Egg’Stravaganza on March 28, where our team will be at a tent welcoming residents, answering questions, and inviting the community to join us. We hope everyone stops by to say hello and take the first step with us.”
How It Works
The walk-a-thon is designed to be flexible and accessible. Participants can walk independently on their own time throughout the five-week period, or join the Palm Coast Flagler Health Alliance at a series of community events happening across the city. The Alliance will have a presence at each of these events to connect with participants, share health resources, and celebrate the community’s commitment to wellness.
The kick-off is at the Egg’Stravaganza on March 28. The Alliance will also be at Keep Palm Coast Clean on April 11, the Tunnel to Towers 5K on April 18, the Mala Compra Hare Run on April 18, and Celebrate Trails Day on April 25. The walk-a-thon will conclude with an awards ceremony at the City of Palm Coast Arbor Day event on May 2, 2026, at Central Park in Town Center. Award categories will be announced in the weeks ahead.
City Parks Director Weighs In
James Hirst, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Palm Coast, said the partnership is a natural extension of the city’s ongoing efforts to encourage residents to use its parks and trails. “Parks and Recreation is thrilled to partner with the Palm Coast Flagler Health Alliance on this initiative,” Hirst said. “This walk-a-thon is a great way to encourage residents to explore our parks, trails, and community events while focusing on health and wellness. It’s a perfect example of how partnerships can bring people together and create meaningful opportunities for our community.”
Registration and Donations
Registration for the Loving Life Walk-a-thon is free. Residents can sign up at runsignup.com/Race/FL/PalmCoast/LovingLifeWalkathon. Participants and supporters will also have the option to make voluntary donations to the Palm Coast Flagler Health Alliance to support its ongoing work. The Alliance’s mission is to empower, educate, and encourage families in Flagler County to make decisions that support a healthier and cleaner lifestyle. Additional event details, award categories, and other opportunities to get involved will be shared in the coming weeks.
This article is based on an announcement issued by the City of Palm Coast and the Palm Coast Flagler Health Alliance.
