Clarine Nordell's Staging Area

I had eagerly anticipated the Gasparilla half marathon since 2022 when I first ran an 8k at this event. I was focused on the long-sleeved tech shirt, and my excitement ran high coming into the event.
We arrived on Saturday at 1 p.m. to pick up our bibs. The convention hours were listed until 3 p.m., but it was astonishing how many booths had already been vacated.
On the event day, volunteers with signs ensure that runners can easily reach their destination. There were no corrals to separate runners this year, so the line-up was a free-for-all. The weather was gorgeous, and running as the sun rose was always a treat.
Fewer supporters were along the route during this Gasparilla race than in previous races. This difference was noticeable—however, the friendliness of other runners on the route made up for the lack of spectators. At the finish line, the organizers handed out dry towels, different from previous years when the towels were dunked in ice-cold water and were an instant hit. I am trying to understand why this change was made. The medal was great, and the long-sleeved tech shirt met my expectations. However, volunteers at the finish line kept everyone moving, so don’t expect to be able to wait for anyone behind you. Additionally, it wasn’t easy to access the after-party.
This race checked off Florida. Unless you have a compelling reason to run it, consider exploring other options.

This race is not a full half marathon. My partner’s GPS clocked 12.2 and mine 12.4. The route was changed this year; however, this shortage was noted in reviews from previous years as well.
The course was run on paved bike paths, and we also shared the road with park traffic. There were rolling hills and a double loop course. The route was well marked, and water and Gatorade were available at the aid stations. Gel packets were provided around mile ten. Only one aid station on the second loop provided a trash can. We were instructed to throw our cups on the ground. Subsequently, cups were strewn along the route. No mile markers were posted.
This is a small race, which I prefer. The weather this year was perfect for running, and the scenery was beautiful.

My sister, who participated in the 5K, affectionately renamed this race. This race was extremely challenging, especially coming from flat Florida. It was surprising how many first-time participants there were. Thankfully, a veteran from the previous year gave us tips to conquer the first half mile of almost straight incline. Don’t stop! Don’t give up!
This race had the absolutely best-stocked aid stations I have ever experienced. The scenery was gorgeous. I wish mile markers had been included on the signs! My daughters GPS clocked over 15 miles for the half. It had recently rained which added to the challenge. I appreciated the rope across the stream we had to ford. The live band at the finish line was a lovely experience as we sat recovering. I would prefer a medal over the grits handed out at the end.
As recommended by the race, we stayed in Unicoi. If I come again, I would definitely chose to stay outside the park.
This is a small race with wonderful volunteers. Despite its difficulty, this race is one of my favorites. Great memories!

Bar Harbor is stunningly gorgeous. This race is run after peak tourist season, so it was easy to add in a few days for sightseeing. 
The start time was just before dawn, so the sun rose as we ran along the water toward Acadia National Park. Mostly run on the Rockefeller carriage trails, the final stretch shares the road with traffic. Aid stations were well spaced, and the volunteers were supportive. The weather was cool, but not cold. There were lots of managable hills on the course. The fresh ice cream at the end was a real treat.
I would definitely love to run Bar Harbor again!