Publix A1A Marathon 2020 Race Report

The Publix A1A Marathon 2020 started out like all the previous years’ marathons. Lots of runners lined up in the starting chute, waiting for the starting gun. This year though, there was a foreboding hanging over the event.  We were just beginning to learn of this thing called the ‘Corona Virus’ that was sweeping through the rest of the world. Now it was beginning to show up here and threatened to close down our lives. This looked like it might be the last public run event of the year. Because of that, the number of runners was way up from 2019.

Race Summary

Once again Mother Nature starts us out with a chilly morning. Starting gun goes off and we’re running through downtown Fort Lauderdale, FL. There were a few spectators on the course considering it was really early. It was nice though and got everyone’s spirits (and feet) flying. The customers at the diners along the route were also cheering.

After @2 miles, the race leaves downtown Fort Lauderdale and turns north along the beach on A1A. We get to watch the sun come up over the ocean as we’re running, which makes this race worth it! For a brief stint, we turn off A1A and head into John U. Lloyd park for a loop along the Intracoastal Waterway. Then it’s back out to A1A to continue north through Lauderdale-By-The-Sea and Pompano Beach. Our turn-around point was just south of the Hillsboro Inlet, and we got to view the lighthouse before turning around. By this point we’re over halfway done, and it’s just a straight shot south back down A1A to the finish line on Fort Lauderdale Beach Park. Spectators all along the route were cheering and clapping all day. They were amazing, even hosing us down sometimes (it’s really hot by now). Once more back through Pompano Beach and Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, we get to enjoy the beach and ocean views along A1A.  Before long, the last leg to the finish is visible and I’m able to kick into gear to reach the finish line!

Overall Comments

I loved doing the Publix A1A Marathon 2020! Publix puts on a great event every year. The logistics of such an event are crazy, yet they get it right every time. Water stops every 2 miles (or so), volunteers who assist AND cheer, live music, food and vibes. Highly recommended!