Real runner feedback on course feel, crowd support, aid stations, and logistics (parking, hotels, restaurants).
A significant portion of the out-and-back course is along a busy road that is not completely closed to traffic. Only cones divide the runners from speeding cars in a small town in Florida on an early Sunday morning. I felt somewhat vulnerable but trusted that the race organizers and law enforcement would keep us safe. Unfortunately, during the race, an intoxicated driver hit a runner. The runner remains hospitalized. The race director announced the incident after the race concluded at the awards ceremony. Since making that announcement, the race organizers have not released a single update to runners about the incident or what will be done in the future to ensure the safety of runners. Because the race has completely ignored this tragic incident, I would not recommend running this unless and until the race organizers are able to ensure that they are implementing measures to protect runners’ safety.
Check the course. The 2026 course was modified due to construction issues. If the course is the same in 2027, perhaps wait to run it again until the original course is reinstated. Also ask the RD how much of the course is along a busy road.
I like the flat course and think the Marathon team did a real good job of handling circumstances on the short notice road construction. Not sure if anyone likes out and back runs but The 1/2 marathon was out and back but seemed seamless. Th bridge at 192 was good and challenging Good water stops that included hydration and water. Volunteers at intersection were some of the most enthusiastic of have experienced.
Would like to see a split at the 1/2 and tracking with automatic results as a standard for a lot of the larger marathons. The run has no shade which makes ideal for winter long runs.
If going to be sunny, don't wear a lot of heavy clothes very far.
Parking is difficult and you should get their early for the better ones. I got there an hour early the best free parking was a 1/2 mile off.
Our start was delayed roughly 15minutes because the organizers said they didn't have all of the course markers laid out in time. This led to some chaos with many runners trying to leave the corral and go back the bathroom. I was included in this group and then missed the gun due to lines and had to weave through traffic. There weren't enough volunteers at the first few water stations and I had to chose between stopping to drink bc of the line or keep going.
Course is pretty flat other than a crossing 2 bridges twice as this is a looped course. The final time you cross a bridge is in the last mile and it is BRUTAL. Definitely make sure you have something left in the tank. I saw a lot of folks walking at that point.
Get there early. As with most race the bathroom lines get very lengthy as you get closer to the start.
The route could have been less neighborhood Relay handoff could've been somewhere where parking wasn't an issue
Train for hills
Arrive early
Good course. Nice people. Good swag and party after the run.
Can be warm and humid. That feels good at first but can take it out of you in the later miles. It's Florida but the two bridges present real hills.
Staying nearby and parking are easy. All within blocks of the start/finish.
Beautiful waterfront course, awesome volunteers and management and a flat course Except for those bridges! Lots of music along the way.
Could be 45 degrees or could be 80 degrees- it is February in Central Florida.
Parking is pretty easy to find. Far more 1/2 marathoners than marathoners so plenty of room for marathoners as they start 30 minutes earlier. Lots of restaurants nearby and great beaches.
LOVED THE WARM-UP, AND SUPER FUN RACE START!!! THE COURSE IS BEAUTIFUL WITH THE BEST ENTERTAINMENT AROUND. NICE MEDALS, AWESOME VOLUNTEERS AND SUPPORT--HARD TO FIND NICER PEOPLE IN THIS DAY AND AGE, SO IT WAS WELCOME. VERY NICE POST RACE FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS AND PLENTY OF IT! WORTH THE TRIP...IT'S NOT A RIP OFF, A GIMICK RACE OR A BIG CITY HUSTLE RACE!
ENJOY THE VIEWS. THE TWO BRIDGES ARE REAL CHALLENGES, BUT THE PAY OFF WORTH IT.
PLENTY OF PARKING OPTIONS. LOTS OF LOCAL RESTAURANTS TO CHOOSE FROM, NOT YOUR ORDINARY CRAPPY CHAINS UNLESS YOU WANT THEM. LOVED THE MANSION,WHICH ALSO SPONSORED THE RACE.
Beautiful Scenery over Two Causeways that we call the Florida Mountains!! Great Volunteer Support!! Great Medals!! Great T-Shirts!! Great Before and After Parties!!
Wind, Rain, Cold or Hot Sunshine - Be Ready for Anything!!
2 Loops around the Scenic Indian River Lagoon, Over 2 different Causeways (twice each) - The Florida Mountains - Great Race Management - Great Traffic Control - GREAT Post Race Party!!
Race Pacers are available and accurate!
This is an OUTDOOR Event (Duh!) In the Winter, In Florida! Weather can be HOT, Weather can be COLD! Might be WINDY, Might be Raining - Be prepared to dress accordingly! Race course aide is plentiful, Race Volunteers are OUTSTANDING!! Be prepared to have a Great Time!!
Website has ALL necessary info