Newport Liberty Half Marathon
Jersey City, New Jersey
Sunday, September 27, 2009

I race walked the Newport Liberty Half Marathon in Jersey City, New Jersey On Sunday, September 27, 2009. The temperature remained almost constant at 61 degrees with some wind and a steady light rain. The course was flat, utilizing about 5 miles of roads, 6 miles of bike paths, and 2 miles of boardwalks, offering views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. Water from the rain formed puddles everywhere which couldn’t be avoided. The volunteers were wonderful as they remained at their station despite the steady rain. Enthusiastic students manned the water/Gatorade stations which were located every two miles. School crossing guards and motorcycle police controlled the intersections and kept traffic off the course. Other adult volunteers were located at every turn. The event was well organized and enjoyable. The only surprise was that race materials could only be picked up on the morning of the race and no finisher’s medal were awarded.