Southernmost Marathon to combine racing challenge, Key West sights

SPECIAL TO KONK LIFE

The Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico shores and scenic streets of America’s southernmost island city compose the route for runners testing their endurance Saturday, Oct. 11, in the Southernmost Marathon & Half Marathon.

Participants can run 26.2 or 13.1 miles during the race dubbed the “SoMo.” In addition, a 10k is planned for those seeking a shorter challenge. Other events for racers are scheduled Thursday through Monday, Oct. 9-13, in Key West.

The full marathon is to begin at 5:30 a.m., Saturday, and the half-marathon and 10K at 6:15 a.m. The start and finish lines for all three are at Pat Croce’s Rum Barrel, 528 Front St., the event’s presenting sponsor.

Racers in the marathon are to run a flat, fast course that includes Key West’s historic Old Town, Atlantic and gulf shorelines, neighboring Stock Island and the Overseas Highway into the Lower Keys. Half-marathon contenders are to race beside the ocean and gulf and through Old Town, while 10K entrants follow a route that explores Key West. Water and “fueling” stations are to be located at regular intervals.

Runners can pick up their packets at the Rum Barrel from 5-7 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 9, or noon to 9 p.m. Friday. A race expo is set for noon to 6 p.m., Friday, at the same location.

On race day, spectators can celebrate with competitors at a finish-line party scheduled for 8:30 a.m. to noon. An awards ceremony and party with live music are set for 5 p.m., Saturday, at the Rum Barrel.

Paddleboard races for the general public and Special Olympics athletes are scheduled Sunday, Oct. 12, off Higgs Beach. The fun event benefits the Florida Keys’ Special Olympics.

Other weekend attractions include racer specials on water sports excursions and food and drinks.

Fees for those who enter by Sept. 1 are $120 per person for the full marathon, $90 for the half marathon and $50 for the 10K. After that date, fees are $140 for the full marathon, $120 for the half marathon and $60 for the 10k. For more race information and registration, see www.somomarathon.com.

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