Probably my favorite run anywhere. Period.
To understand this run fully you will need to check out their website (linked above).
I will offer some of my reasons for continuing to do this race each year.
This is not simply a bunch of folks running on the beach. The runs are a mechanism to reach a goal. The objective of this race and the organization behind it, is to raise money for the children of fallen Special Operations service members. As a retired military helicopter pilot I have worked with many of these folks. I have seen first hand the incredible bravery, commitment to duty, and very tough job they volunteered to do. It is a noble cause. I am proud to be a supporter.
Even though helping children is reason enough, here is the cherry on top- consider the location of the race and the course. I have run the 50k the last two years and it has been the most difficult and rewarding race I have participated in. Here are the major challenges-
- You will run 31+ (or 50) miles on beach sand.
- Depending on recent tides and weather, the beach may have significant slopes in some areas
- There are multiple water crossings, the water is cold, and you cannot avoid them.
- You are required to carry water or fluids between aid stations.
- The aid stations are 5 to 6 miles apart.
Some of the rewards-
- The entire course is located on the most beautiful beaches anywhere
- The aid stations are without equal. Each catered by a local area restaurant. Previous runs were supported by Red Bar, The Back Porch and Whisky Bravo 723 to name a few.
- You will meet some incredible people, some are elite athletes, others are just regular (?) runners like you, who want to challenge themselves.
- How cool will it be to show up at your next 10k or half marathon sporting a 50k t-shirt??
The race is scheduled considering sunrise and tides. You will start in the dark, running east. Here is your morning view.....
The 2014 weather was nothing short of perfect. Almost like someone was looking out for us.
Even though the after party is great, I have to say both years I have done the run I was too tired to do much more than have a beer and be driven home. It's the kind of exhaustion that makes you smile and proud with each ache and painful step later.
Some practical notes-
- If you are coming in from out of town consider the discounts from Tops'l Beach Resort. They also support this run by providing a space for packet pick up and the mandatory safety briefing the day prior.
- Bathrooms are located in the ground floor of one of the buildings. Port o lets are on the course, but well off the beach as required by state law.
- Wear sunscreen, apply often. It may be February but the sun is still pretty strong.
- A shuttle will bring in-town runners from a parking area nearby- check out the website for details.
- Even though the aid stations are great, I still have a friend support me at each stop with fresh shirts, socks, towels, shoes as necessary. If you are getting additional help, a recon of the aid station locations is helpful.
- Make sure your music and GPS watch are fully charged!
These will make nice additions to your collection-
...and maybe some conversation pieces for coffee breaks at work?
This is an A+ race. Do the training and do the run, at least once.
Have you run this race? What are your thoughts?
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