Space Coast Half Marathon
Cocoa, Florida
Sunday, November 30, 2014

On Sunday, November 30, 2014 I race walked the Space Coast Half Marathon in Cocoa, Florida. It was wonderful weather for the event as the skies were clear and there was a gentle breeze. The race started at 6 AM and by sheer coincidence and pure luck The International Space Station was visible for 5 minutes from 5:58 to 6:03 travelling from 23 degrees above WNW to 10 degree above SSE with a maximum of 67 degrees at its highest point overhead. It was a fantastic sight and those of us in the starting area that knew what to look for helped those in the starting area see it streak across the sky. The course was mostly flat with a little bit of up and down as it went out and back along the Indian River. Water/Gatorade stations were located approximately every mile with plenty of enthusiastic volunteers taking care of the needs of the participants. Police were located at a few intersections and local traffic was allowed to the houses along the road. The people that live along this road are extremely nice and almost no one travels while the event is being held. Instead they come out of their houses and become enthusiastic cheering spectators. Former astronaut, Mike McCulley, and Runner’s World editor, Bart Yasso were celebrities for the event and both did the half marathon. Bart is one of my friends and I have met Mike several times in the past. I have done this event for many years and it is always extremely well organized and fun. The finisher’s medals are also extremely nice.