Journeys of The Key West Southernmost Walker: January 2008

ING Miami Marathon
Miami, Florida
Sunday, January 27, 2008

I race walked the ING Miami Marathon in Miami, Florida on Sunday, January 27, 2008. It was a good day for the marathon as the temperature was in the upper 60’s with some wind and a few light showers that helped keep me cool. The race was extremely well organized with plenty of volunteers, police, and water stations, each of which had both water and Gatorade. The stations were spaced every mile starting at mile three. There were also cheering area where hundreds of people cheered the competitors as well a live music along the course which began at AA Arena, proceeded to South Beach, Back to Downtown Miami, out to Coconut Grove, then back to Downtown Miami.
The associated half marathon was won by Brian Sell who will represent the USA in the summer Olympics in the marathon. There were many other elite athletes from many countries other than the USA. I had a very enjoyable time.

Sunset, Disney World, Florida

Disney World Marathon and Half Marathon
Disney World, Florida
Saturday and Sunday, January 12 and 13, 2008

I once again did the Goofy Challenge at the Disney World Marathon and Half Marathon on January 12 and 13, 2008. In the event I had to complete the Half Marathon on Saturday and the Marathon on Sunday. The Disney event is my favorite event in which to participate. As always the event was extremely well organized with plenty of enthusiastic volunteers, water stations, traffic control, etc. Even though rain was predicted, the weather remained dry. I did get a little warm as Sunday had 100% humidity for the beginning of the race. If you want to do your first marathon, Disney is a great place as the emphasis is on the average runner instead of the elites. As always I had a great time and enjoyed myself thoroughly.