Journeys of The Key West Southernmost Walker

Key West Half Marathon

Key West, Florida

Sunday, January 20, 2019

On Sunday, January 20, 2019 I did the Key West Half Marathon in my hometown of Key West, Florida. The race was delayed for 2.25 hours as two lines of rain and thundershowers were going to pass through Key West. When the race started at 9:15 AM the 4000 entries experienced misty rain, 15-20 mph winds and a temperature of 75 degrees. After 15 minutes into the event no further rain occurred and gradually the skies became partly sunny. It was a good decision to delay the race. I am really appreciative that the City of Key West let the event happen with the delay. Many of the other cities that I have done races would have forced the race directors to cancel the event. Most of the participants had traveled to Key West for the three day weekend. In fact there was entries from all 50 states and many countries. The highest natural elevation in Key West is 17 feet above sea level so as a result the course is very flat with no hills or high bridges. I am very appreciative that the numerous volunteers and police officers were able to stay for the entire event. All intersections had volunteers controlling traffic and major intersections also had police officers. Motorcycle officers also patrolled to keep traffic out of the dedicated lanes that were utilized by the participants. Water/electrolyte stations were located approximately every mile and had plenty of volunteers taking care of the needs of the participants. It was especially nice that stations had tables spread out to alleviate much of the crowding. A special thank you goes out to the numerous retired navy personnel and their spouses who represented more than 50% of the more than 300 volunteers. I have completed the Key West Half Marathon in 11 of its 21 years of existence and really appreciate how well organized and fun the event is as a result of the tremendous efforts of race directors, Barbara Wright and Evan Snitkoff, and their staff.

Packet Pick Up