*** Rate the Race- Blue Mountain Beach Half Marathon 2014

Blue Mountain Beach Half Marathon
Held 12 October, 2014 Grayton Beach

I am happy to say I have participated in this run every year it has been held. I have seen it go through a few growing pains, but has matured into a race I invite my out-of-town friends to run in, stay the weekend, and enjoy the great October weather and local food and drink.

This year the course changed and instead of starting further west (near Goatfeathers), began near the 4 way stop in Grayton Beach. The route takes you through Old Grayton (past the Red Bar and the old homes) back to 30A and on to the turn around at Watercolor. Another trip through Grayton on the way back and then the hard part of the course begins.

This time of year the weather is cooler at night, and frequently warms up quickly. Today was one of those days, The course from the 4 way stop heading west was great and then the temperature began to rise. Now I'll admit, I have always said that heat during a run is my cryptonite.  Today it got me. There are a couple of long uphills that are challenging, which might surprise visitors from out of town expecting a beach course to be flat.

This is a B+ race. Here are the reasons why-

1. Great location including the small homes from a by gone (not that long ago) era in Grayton Beach, a spectacular stretch along Western Lake (part of Grayton Beach State Park, my personal favorite beach anywhere). I have seen a number of oil paintings that capture the view of the pines along the lake silhouetted by the sunrise. 
2. Cool technical t-shirt and medal.
3. Fast results and award ceremony.
4. Maybe the best change incorporated this year is the change of venue for the awards. This year we all went to Pandoras outdoor bar area. It was pay as you go, but there are hints that next year there may be beer provided. That will definitely up the score!
5. Whoever made the pasta salad for the after-party at Pandoras should be commended.
6. While this is not a large race, it is getting bigger each year. I think the good organization has spread the word to more folks. Extra points for attracting lots of visitors from other areas.
7. Plenty of port-a-potties. Something you don't appreciate until they aren't there.
8. Lots of fluids AND gels along the route.

Only negative thing about this race-

Next year please make sure there is enough water at the end for the runners as they finish! 

Summary, I will definitely do this race again. So will my running buddies from out of town. Keeps getting better every year. Hope the party continues at Pandoras.