Key West Half Marathon Official Website

Hutch D.
Atlanta, GA

  (05-19-2009)

"Formerly sponsored by the Half Shell Raw Bar and known as the Half Shell Half Marathon, the Key West Half Marathon (as it is now called) is an event for Ocean (and island) lovers! Fly into Miami, Fl. and enjoy a scenic ride down in a rental car. You won't regret it.

The race does not boast a massive crowd but that's part of the charm. Be careful not to trip, because you won't be able to watch the ground with the constantly changing and beautiful view between the old renovated homes and the amazing view of the ocean from the running path that borders a portion of the island.

Parking is horrible and expensive so plan to park the car and walk everywhere. If you're looking for nice and expensive lodging, it's everywhere. If you're looking for dirt cheap and you're going it alone, consider one of the hotel rooms over at the Youth Hostel down near the Southern most point. They are practical and very affordable and under very friendly ownership.

Because the race is under new sponsorship, I can't address the details. However, I suspect the same running club is hosting it and they did a great job pulling everything together in my opinion - definitely a thumbs-up for organization!

There was a good pasta dinner offered at the marina the night before the race which included an excellent video presentation put on by an elite runner describing his experiences around a 6 day marathon in Africa. Very interesting!

The race offers a cool t-shirt and, at the end of the race, a very nice hand-painted heavy medal. It's sort of an off-season at that time of year so the crowds are not bad - although this does mean that you won't find much cheering going on from the sidelines. (Hardly a problem when the view is the main attraction!)

My greatest challenge was training in the colder December temps (here in Atlanta, Georgia at that time of year) and then going down to run in the heat and humidity that always define Key West. Better hook up the blow-dryer on your treadmill and do a bit of heat training! :-)

Over-all a great race and would definitely do it again!
Good luck and enjoy!"

Reviewed by a: First Time Participant for 2008