As the second part of the Tartan Twosome, I participated in the Scenic Half Marathon a little over 12 hours after the Sunset 5 k. Another big crowd for the Saturday morning race was on hand as runners were competing in distances ranging from 5k to a full marathon lined up together for an 8 am start.

The conditions were just perfect on race day as the morning was cool and the sky was clear. The course was well marked and a great mix of challenge with rolling hills and beautiful scenery. There were many aid stations along the course and all were filled with enthusiastic volunteers from various charities.

The route had a lot of hills and a lot of running in view of or alongside the ocean. I was glad to be doing the half as by the time I was finished, the day had certainly warmed up and there were no clouds to give runners much of a break from the heat.

The local support and organization of this event is super impressive, as is the pirate theming that covers the entire week and its festivities. The finishing medals are the most impressive ones I have seen to date, with a special third medal being given to runners who completed the Friday night 5 k as well as any distance on Saturday.

This is certainly a destination race for people, as I talked to many people from outside of Atlantic Canada, including quite a few runners from the states, some of whom had planned their entire trip around the Maritime Race Weekend. Although it seems pricey at first glance, the quality of the swag, course, organization and medals make it one of the better overall deals I've found.