Mercedes Half Marathon
Birmingham, Alabama
Sunday. February 22, 2015

On Sunday, February 22, 2015 I race walked the Mercedes Half Marathon in Birmingham, Alabama. I once again lucked out on the predicted rain which had a 90% chance of occurring at the start and a 70% chance of continuing throughout the race. However, about 15 minutes before the start the rain changed to a light drizzle. Throughout the race the rain fluctuated among light drizzle, misty rain, and no rain at all. The temperature remained near 52 degrees throughout the event and of course the skies were cloudy. The course utilized city streets that were completely closed to traffic. Every intersection had one to three police officers to control the cross traffic and protect the participants in the half marathon, marathon, and marathon relay. Nearly 4000 people participated in the half marathon. Water/Powerade stations were spaced at one mile intervals and were manned by plenty of enthusiastic volunteers that diligently did their duties in the less than perfect weather. A few spectators were cheering all along the route. I have done this event three times, the marathon once and the half marathon twice. It is always well organized and fun to do.