Key West The Newspaper

More than 4,200 athletes have signed up for the 18th Annual Key West Half Marathon, which is nearing capacity. Interested participants are encouraged to register now for the race on Sunday, January 17th.

“We’re thrilled to see these numbers,” said Barbara Wright, event founder and organizer. “The race has grown by many thousands since it began, and it brings people from all over–this year, as far as Australia. It’s truly become an international event.” Other countries are represented, as well — Slovakia, The Bahamas, Brazil, Switzerland, Costa Rica, Canada, Denmark, Germany, and the UK — plus all U.S. states.

The annual race was named one of the United States’ leading winter half marathons; one of 14 Best Destination Half Marathons (Runner’s World Feb. 2014); Bucket List Best Half Marathons (Runner’s World April, 2015); in December, 2015 Competitor.com ranked it among 13 must-do U.S. half marathons; and most recently, in Steven Kesh’s new
book, “Top 50 World’s Best Half Marathons”, the Key West Half Marathon is ranked #7!

The sporting challenge will begin at 7 a.m. on a fast 13.1-mile half marathon course amid the island city’s Victorian architecture,
historic landmarks and harborfront businesses. A 5K run is scheduled at 7:30 a.m. for those who prefer a shorter course.

Saturday’s schedule features the chance to experience a 9 a.m. training run with Keith Brantly, acclaimed as one of the most
successful long-distance runners in American history. Other Saturday attractions include a fitness expo from noon to 7 p.m. presented by Altra footwear and a pre-race pasta dinner offered by the Half Shell Raw Bar, starting at 11 a.m.

A registration booth will be set up from noon to 7 p.m. on Saturday in the city parking lot nearthe Half Shell Raw Bar, 231 Margaret St. in Key West’s Historic Seaport. Race packets can be picked up at that time.

On race day, an awards ceremony and party will follow with a concert by Howard Livingston & the Mile Marker 24 Band, and beer by Concrete Beach Brewery, our new beer sponsor. In true Key West style, the party will also include food, free raffles (including a Caribbean Trip for four) and more! Later in the day, Viva’s Saloon, 903 Duval St., will host happy hour for runners from 4 to 7 p.m.

Awards await the first- through third-place male and female finishers in five-year age groups ranging from 9 and under to 75 and over, as well as the top overall competitors and those in the masters. Each entrant will receive a gender-specific fully sublimated race shirt. Unique wine topper medals will go to all Half Marathon Finishers and Dog Tag Finisher Medals to all 5K Finishers.

During race week, participating runners can enjoy Paddle Yoga and Paddle Fit trips by Lazy Dog Outfitters on Thursday, Friday and Monday; and also a Farewell Party at Viva’s Saloon on Monday with drink specials beginning at 11 a.m.

For a full schedule and other information, like us on Facebook or visit keywesthalfmarathon.com.

To register: active.com or keywesthalfmarathon.com.