Runners to Test Speed and Strength in Key West’s Southernmost Marathon

KEY WEST, Florida Keys — The Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico shores and scenic streets of America’s southernmost island city highlight the route for runners testing their speed and endurance Saturday, Dec. 2, in the Southernmost Marathon & Half Marathon. 

Participants can run 26.2 or 13.1 miles during the highly competitive race dubbed the “SoMo.” Those seeking a shorter course can vie for prizes in 10k and 5k races scheduled Sunday, Dec. 3. 

The four challenges make up the athletic Key West Running Festival weekend, designed to appeal to runners of all ages and experience levels. 

The full marathon is to begin at 5:30 a.m. Saturday, followed by the half marathon at 5:45 a.m. The start and finish lines for both are at Lagerheads Beach Bar and Grill, 1 Simonton St. beside the Gulf of Mexico.

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 part of the Overseas Highway into the Lower Keys. Half-marathon contenders are to race beside the ocean and gulf, through Old Town and onto Stock Island.

Water stations are planned at regular intervals.

Sunday’s 10k and 5k begin and end at Key West’s Higgs Beach, located on Atlantic Boulevard near White Street. After a 7:30 a.m. start, participants in both races are to follow an out-and-back course beside the Atlantic Ocean.

Runners arriving early for the weekend can pick up their packets from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30, during a pool party at the 24 North Hotel, 3820 N. Roosevelt Blvd. 

Regular packet pickup is set for noon to 9 p.m. Friday at Lagerheads Beach Bar and Grill. A race expo is planned at the same location.

Awards presentations follow each race.

Entry fees are $130 per person for the full marathon, $99 for the half marathon, $50 for the 10k and $35 for the 5k. Package prices are available for runners entering either the marathon or half marathon and one of the shorter races. 

Race information and registration: somomarathon.com

Key West visitor information: fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY

Social: FacebookTwitterInstagramYoutubeKeys Voices blog

The Key West Running Festival weekend is designed to appeal to runners of all ages and experience levels.

The Key West Running Festival weekend is designed to appeal to runners of all ages and experience levels.

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 part of the Overseas Highway into the Lower Keys.

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 part of the Overseas Highway into the Lower Keys.

The full marathon is to begin at 5:30 a.m. Saturday, followed by the half marathon at 5:45 a.m. Image: Rob O'Neal

The full marathon is to begin at 5:30 a.m. Saturday, followed by the half marathon at 5:45 a.m. Image: Rob O'Neal

Close
Close