This was my 3rd time running Space Coast, my second half marathon at this race. They offer both a full marathon and a half marathon. The half marathon goes south to cover it's 13.1 route, while the full marathon first goes north, then heads over to the south side to also cover the half marathon side of the course.

The race always starts off with a shuttle launch being shown on large screens. While I can always hear the shuttle take-offs, being so far back in the crowd of runners, I can never see anything until I am hitting the starting mat. They do continue to show some space shuttle footage as you are starting the race, so you do get to see something as you are crossing.

The course is through a neighborhood with a beautiful scenic water view on the opposite side. Since the start is at 6am, the sunrise is a definite plus to see! You go out about 7 miles, then head back, as the half marathon route is an out and back.

Along the route, there are themed aid/water stations from various volunteer groups. It's always nice to see how some of them theme their stop. For example, there is a Jimmy Buffet Margaritaville water stop, and usually some Trekkers or Trekkies as well. The excitement of the volunteers is a perk that makes the race experience even more fun. There is even locals who come out with snacks and sometimes drinks (yes, beer) for the runners.

The swag for this race is really awesome. They do a long-sleeved tech shirt each year, and since they are in the midst of the Big Bang Series right now, each one features a particular space shuttle on it. This year was Challenger, next year will be Discovery and so on (last year was the first in the series, being Columbia). You also get a great finisher towel as well as your medal when you finish.

I most definitely recommend this race for anyone who especially loves the space shuttle theme of the event. It's a race I will be running for the next three years at the very least. Sign up early though, as it's sure to sell out quickly with it's growing popularity!