Key West The Newspaper

The historic Old Town and waterfront districts are to become a scenic race course for several thousand runners on Sunday, Jan. 17, during the annual Key West Half Marathon. In Steve Kesh’s new book, “‘The Best Half Marathons in the World,” the Key West Half Marathon is ranked #7!

Now in its 18th year, the race typically attracts American and international runners to compete in Key West’s balmy January climate. Named as one of the United States’ leading winter half marathons: in Runner’s World, February, 2014; Best Destination Half Marathons and in April, 2015; Bucket List Best Half Marathons, and most recently in December, 2015 was ranked among 13 must-do U.S. half marathons by Competitor.com.

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

Sign up now to receive a Holiday Special on the registration fee–15% Off either race! Use Code XMAS15 on active.com. (Discount good till 12/25/2015).

A registration booth will be set up from noon to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 16, outside the Half Shell Raw Bar, 231 Margaret St. in Key West’s Historic Seaport. Race packets can be picked up at that time.

Saturday’s schedule also 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 and a pre-race pasta dinner offered by the Half Shell Raw Bar.

On race day, the run will begin and end near the intersection of Caroline and Margaret streets in the Historic Seaport. An awards ceremony and party will follow with entertainment by Howard Livingston & the Mile Marker 24 Band, beer by Concrete Beach Brewery, our new beer sponsor. In true Key West style, the party will also include raffles, beer, Caribbean Trips and more!

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 to all Half Marathon Finishers and Dog Tag Finisher Medals to all 5K Finishers.

During race week, participating runners also can enjoy happy hour gatherings, bar strolls, parties and more.

Event information and registration: www.keywesthalfmarathon.com or 305-240-0727.