“No matter how slow you go you are still lapping everyone on the couch”.
(Unknown)
The Walk into the Future blog made it back over to Celebration, Florida for the 2024 Town of Celebration Half Marathon. I ran this race for the first time in 2023 and vowed to make this an annual visit because of the course, community involvement and the outstanding post-race party.
Celebration, Florida may be the friendliest place I have ever visited for a race weekend. The downtown area reminds me of a movie set but it’s 100% real. The town rolls out the red carpet for runners over multiple days and it feels like returning home. Most races put on a good face to attract runners but don’t have a welcoming vibe. Well, Celebration, Florida welcomes runners with open arms and then invites us to hang out with them at the post-race party.
I was able to clock a surprising 2:09:16 in 2023 because of the flat course and cool weather. Didn’t think I would break 2:10 again a month after running my first full marathon but I felt great the entire race and kept moving forward. Told my friend Lauren my goal time was 2:08 but didn’t fully believe I could get close to that time. Funny what happens with a great course and weather conditions. 😊
I entered the 2024 half marathon coming off a 2:15 finish during the 2024 Vero Beach Half Marathon. Not my fastest or slowest time but a steady effort to get up and over the bridges twice. Viewed the Vero Beach Half as a good barometer of fitness and my overall training program. Wanted it to be a springboard for a fast 2024.
The weather at the 2024 Town of Celebration Half Marathon was surprisingly warmer this year. I watched the weather the entire week and race day was projected to be the warmest day of the week with humidity. Most folks know how I feel about humidity on race day but trusted my training would carry me on the course and it did.
I arrived at the race start line about 40 minutes before the race started. This gave me enough time to stretch, get a quick run in and visit the bathroom before toeing the line.
Found a spot towards the middle of the pack with intent to let the fast runners get out. I should have made my way closer to the start line since there were a ton of walkers in front of me. Never understand why walkers and/or slower runners make it to the front for race starts. It is dangerous for them and other runners who must maneuver around them to avoid a crash. This extra traffic takes a lot of energy to get around, but we all have to run our own race.
The course is completely flat, which makes this an ideal place to run a half marathon.
I couldn’t go out too fast due to the extra traffic in front of me. Decided to find a comfortable pace and enjoy the experience.
I was surprisingly consistent throughout the race—each mile split started with a 10. My fastest mile split was 10:05 (Miles 3, 4, 6) and my slowest mile split was 10:52 (Mile 13). Never could find another gear during this race because of the humidity but I am proud of the consistent effort throughout. Crossed the finish line at 2:18 but felt good and smiled as I finished with a kick.
Made my way to the race after party to get my beer, breakfast, and mimosas. Yes, runners drink beer at 9 am and we don’t blink an eye. The local restaurants had tables and gave out food samples to runners and family members. These were small portions, but you can go back as many times as you like. Spent two hours sampling food and drinking beer this year. Already looking forward to the 2025 Town of Celebration Half Marathon. I’m sure the after-party will be epic again next year.
“When your legs get tired, run with your heart”.
(Unknown)
Walk Into the Future 