Ft Lauderdale 13.1

2012 Edition
This was my second time running this race, and once again I was happy I signed up. The course wass a bit diffrent this year, with more twists and turns during the first 2 miles, and at times even looping back on itself. But the trade off was that the run spend more time on Los Olas, and there was more of a distraction. The trip under the river is still included in the trip, as are the beautiful ocean views. I am not sure why, but this course always seems shorter and easier then most other courses, though my guess is because of the views.
The organization of the race is outstanding. The start line is easy to find, and shuttles carry runners back from the beach finish line. The water stations are plentiful, and I do like that not only are there mile markers every mile, but there are also clocks with the gun time every mile as well.
I should note also that there are plenty of Port O Johns at the starting area as well.

A race is about putting together something wonderful in which Supermen and Superwomen can push themselves to extremes and come out as winners, each and every one.
Being a professional «Cheerleader» I come to all of these races as the #1 fan of one of the runners. Those of us who come to cheer on, who wake up at 4AM not because we are running but because we are the support system of those who are, can see these races from a completely different perspective, and often better than the racers themselves.
This event is a wonderfully organized event that was super smooth from start to finish. I believe I might be a tad selfish because it is also smaller than others and therefore has a sense of family. As I walk by the guy with the dog and blow on my hot coffee, we nod at each other. knowing, waiting for that special someone who is going to cross that finish line for WE are the cheerleaders.
Now as for the nitty gritty:
Parking? Easy as pie.
Organization at start line? Flawless
Organization at finish line? Again, flawless
Sponsors at finish line such as Massages for the racers, Yoga clothing, kids activities? Top notch
Water, carbs, fruit for the end of the race to replenish those amazing athletes? GREAT and abundant
(I felt kind of bad at the male and female ‘models’ at the finish line in their bathing suits. It was 64 degrees! I was in a sweatshirt and was still chilly. I do not know what they were promoting, but it wasn’t necessary to make them suffer like that)
MOST OF ALL — the volunteers? Thank you for making this event what it is, for without you there would be no race.

Part of the 13.1 Series — The events are:
Ft Lauderdale, Los Angeles, Miami Beach, Atlanta, New York, Chicago, Boston, Minneapolis
This is the second year they run the Ft. Lauderdale and it is getting bigger and better.
The course is simply unbeatable, throws in a couple of bridges in the early miles to wake up your legs and in around Mile 4 you hit A1A and run along the beach for the duration of the race–
Where else in the world can you see the sun rise over the Caribbean sea while you are running with like minded people and achieving your own personal goals.
The event is extremely well organized, the aid stations are plenty and well stocked, the Mile Markers are ubiquitous so it is easy to stay on track with your pace.
The entertainment throughout the route is pretty cool and the crowds are enthusiastic and encouraging, even at that early time of the day.
Locally you can run the Miami Beach in March and then Ft Lauderdale in November —
Hey … if you must run one of these … run it in paradise !!