The 2017 Key West Half Marathon took place on Sunday, January 15. The 7 am start was partly cloudy and humid. The sun eventually came out and warmed to 80 degrees.

Registration: This was available online, and started around a price of $80. You could also register at packet pick up before the race. Included with registration, a multi colored short sleeve uni sex tech shirt, a bib with timing chip and you could grab a drawstring bag at the expo.

Expo /Packet Pick up: The expo was held Friday evening and all day Saturday before the race at the Waterfront Brewery / restaurant. There was enough room in the place to have the expo, although it was a bit crowded when I arrived. The packet pick up was simple, just get in the line that corresponded with the beginning letter of your last name. I handed the volunteer my ID just to get my name right, they handed me my bib and shirt. There were a few tables set up with things to buy - sponsors and race branded merchandise.

Pre-race: Things seems to be lacking as far as logistics go before the race. Although there were emails that advised coming early to find parking and that there was gear check...those things didn't seem easy to find on race day. I did get a shuttle to the start, but I saw no parking near the start. Also, we walked around a bit to find the gear check that was "just a block from the start." I can't remember, but I believe this gear check area also had port-o-potties.

Once it was close to starting the race, participants were encouraged to line up. There were no corrals, but there were pacers. Most seemed to do a great job self seeding.

Race/course:
-Scenery: The race goes by many of the touristy things to see in Key West, the southernmost point, through Mallory square as well as running through neighborhoods, on a pier, by the beach, and along the water.
-Elevation: FLAT, this is Florida. I think my Garmin had an overall gain of like 25 feet. There was a short bridge at the turn around, that was a small hill.
-Terrain: paved, all on road or path, small section of bricks near the finish.
-Aid Stations: There were lots of stops, all with water and Orange Ultima (this was announced on the FB page, however all volunteers called it Gatorade, there is a difference, it has stevia or some sweetener) The liquids were in paper and plastic cups, but there were 2 different kinds of cups and not always same liquid in same cup, and the Ulitma was always the center table. The course was out and back, and some stops were out or had less cups on the back portion. There were some Honey Stinger products sitting on the tables, but I never saw them offered. There were port-o-potties here too.
-Course Markings: Each mile was marked with a teardrop flag, volunteers at intersections, never any confusion as to which way to go. Spray painted spots too.
-Spectators: There were a few on the course, even some chickens.
-Photographers: These were scattered about, but some didn't have any markings, so wasn't sure if they were official. A few days after the race, received an email to purchase photos.
-Volunteers: They were so energetic, nice to see them on the course.

Finish: The finish line was hidden around a corner, but once you crossed the finish line, a volunteer handed you the wine stopper medal and a bottle of water. There were tables of food set up, but the line was long. There were oranges, bananas, pastries, cornbread and bagels. Tubs of iced down water bottles were stationed around.

Post Race: PARTY!!!!! There was a live band playing that was very active with the crowd, at one point they stopped to mix margaritas with an outboard motor to share with everyone. The beer was flowing! There were 35 kegs of craft beer, 2 choices from the Waterfront Brewery and IPA and a pilsner, there was no limit on the amount of beers you could drink at no cost. In fact, when there was no line at the beer tent, they encouraged you to get another beer. While dancing around at the party, in between songs, there were raffles and giveaways. Everyone was having a great time. There wasn't too much shade, but you could find it if you needed it. The food wasn't really close to the band and beer, but there were restaurants nearby.

My race: I wanted to do my best. I had been training at my gym to simulate the heat, and I had run a half in FL 2 weeks before. I was prepared for the hot, but I forgot about the humidity. I carried my own water too. I did run the best I could, with a time around 2:21. I really enjoyed running alongside the water, very peaceful in a way.

Overall: The post race party makes this a must run! The race organization is more "island style" meaning it's very laid back, but they know how to treat you to a great time. If you need to escape winter, I would recommend getting away to Key West.