I do this race yearly, this was my third year. This race is a little different since it is a night run. You take off at dusk and run just feet away from the waves on the beaches of South Padre Island. Watch your step and wear a headlamp because every sand castle that was made and hole that was dug on the beach that day become an obstacle you must run through/over/around!

Packet Pickup:
You were able to pick up your swag bags, chip timers, and shirts at the running store in Harlingen (1 hour away from the island) the days prior to the race, or at the hotel directly next to the race the day of the race. I tend to just send my better half to grab my bag for me and they never have a problem with that. The Shirts for this year were not the performance shirts like they were in previous years which was a little downer, but the design was nice and I still liked it.
Race Day:
They hold the race at Clayton's Beach Bar on the far end of the island. There is a HUGE parking lot here since it is such a big venue, but people still end up parking along the road, across the street at the convention center, and in the grassy field next to it so be prepared, and get there early for better parking! There is usually a bad playing on the deck, food available from Clayton's kitchen, of course a full bar for any non runners that are just going to hang out, and a few vendors booths.

Starting line/Race:
The starting line tends to bunch up. This is a smaller race so no chutes or staggered release. The 5k and 10k runners leave together and run together all the way until the turn around for the 5k.
There are several water stations along the course and everyone has always been very helpful at pointing out places you should watch out for along the way. As stated before it is advisable that you wear a headlamp as you run. There were many mounds of sand, along with holes and washed out spots that you will have to dodge, jump, or go around. The beach is usually deserted although, this year there were even a few people with tents, glow lights and other light up things along the route cheering us on which was a welcome surprise.

Post Race:
After the race the festivities continued on the deck. Runners received 1 free beer (Shocktop this year) and 1 BBQ plate per entry. I did not eat the BBQ plate so I cannot report if it was good or not (Sorry). We prefer not paying $17 a round (YIKES!) for post race beverages so we left Clayton's and went to one of the local bars down the island.

All and all I recommend running this race and look forward to next year!