Melissa Smith's Staging Area

Pre race: Easy registration process. Communication was clear and direct. They keep you very well informed with a monthly newsletter. Cost was reasonable-$120. Free parking for packet pickup. I was there early, so no issues for me. Limited race merchandise available for purchase. Cost of things were reasonable. Race shirt was ok-short sleeved, tech material. Loved that this was a cup less race! Inside the race bag you got a cup to use. No running store on the island, so come prepared!
Race day: I had a difficult time finding the parking at the civic center. Finally saw a school bus and followed it. No charge and a relatively short drive to the starting line. I got there early. Later, the line for the porta-potties was a mad house. They should’ve had more! Race start was 530 which was really nice! Course was super flat with just a couple small inclines. Views were breathtaking! Not much crowd support at all. At the turn around point, the sun was at your back which was awesome! Not many photographers. Water and medic stops were sufficient. No cover or shade. This was my 84th half marathon and by far the HOTTEST! First half of the race was perfection until they sun made its appearance!!🥵🥵
The last several miles, I didn’t feel safe. We were running on a very narrow shoulder and the traffic lane wasn’t shut down. The medal was pretty underwhelming, but ok. No good post racevtreats-I was hoping for shave ice as hot as it was!! 😋😋 I would’ve ranked this race a 5 if they would’ve at least shut down 1 of the traffic lanes. It is one of my favorite races. I’ll be back for the 10k!