This Old Runner Writes About Running

First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon & Relay Price Increase Happens on April 4

3/28/2019

Disclaimer: I’m promoting First Watch Sarasota Half as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to find and write race reviews.

SAVE $10 with My Discount Code

Hurry up and register for the First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon and Relay. (There's a 10K race, too!)

Current price is $70 until April 4th. Use my code: "BRSARASOTA19" to💰SAVE $10 on the Half or Relay, or $5 OFF the 10K race. 🙌

(Photo credit: First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon. Video credit: This Old Runner)

First Watch Sarasota Half is October 20, 2019

The First Watch Sarasota Half, Relay and 10K move to Fall this year. This scenic run through Sarasota will be on Oct. 20, 2019.

If you haven't run here yet, you should! You can read my 2018 review here. 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ FYI: This event always sells out!

I know October seems far away, but get registered before the prices increase on April 4! 🐬🐬 See you at the starting line for that beautiful sunrise on Sarasota Bay!

#RunSarasota #SarasotaBR #BibRavePro #BibChat #FirstWatch #SarasotaHalf #DiscountCode #CouponCode #RaceDiscount #Runnersofinsta #werunsocial #mrrt #runtampa #runstpete #FloridaRunners #halfmarathon #relay #10K #SarasotaBay #RunTheRingling #firstwatchbreakfastcafe

First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon & Relay Moves to October 20, 2019

3/9/2019

Disclaimer: I’m promoting First Watch Sarasota Half as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to find and write race reviews.

SAVE $10 When You #RunSarasota in October

One of my favorite half marathons is moving to October this year. It's the First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon and Relay in Sarasota, Florida.

This event has a special place in my running heart. It's a beautiful course that takes you up and over the challenging John Ringling Causeway Bridge, around St. Armands Circle, and through some beautiful old neighborhoods with giant shade trees and Sarasota Bay views. The race begins and ends at Van Wezel Hall — a fun waterfront venue on the bay.

Keep reading to learn more about the race and get my $10 Discount Code!

Check Out the Race Course

The race includes going up and over the John Ringling Causeway Bridge at mile 1 and mile 4. This is a picture of the approach. The bridge is 60 feet high. (Photo credit: FW Sarasota Half)

After the bridge and St. Armands Circle, runners race along the Tamiami Trail for a couple of miles. After mile 7 half marathoners head into quiet neighborhoods with views of the bay. (Photo credit: FW Sarasota Half)

Next, runners race 4 miles through neighborhoods and on Bayshore Blvd. before returning to Tamiami Trail and the finish line at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. The finish line leads to the post race party on the bay. (Photo credit: FW Sarasota Half)

2019 First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon, Relay, and 10K Course Map.

First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon & Relay Course. There's a 10K race, too. (Photo credit: FW Sarasota Half)

Why I Like the New Race Date

Florida's racing season is different than other parts of the country. Around here you can find 3-4 races every weekend in March. In the past, it meant you had to choose one race over another, or run two races on the same weekend.

Sure, there were times I ran a couple of races one weekend. And, I've run a half marathons two weeks in a row. But, I like it much better when I can spread them out. It makes each event special and allows plenty of time for recovery.

Now, First Watch Sarasota Half & Relay are at the start of race season in October. I can run the half without FOMO on other races. Plus, it's a great motivator to train through the summer and kick off the Fall racing season with a bang.

October Temps in Florida

If you've never been to Florida in October — come on down. While it's getting cold up North, we're still enjoying sunny beach days.

October is a great time of year here. Humidity can be low or high, so I can't predict that. But, I did look up the predicted temps for October 2019:

Expect warm days and cool nights in Florida during October. That means the Gulf water temp and beaches will be perfect. (Graphic: Weather Channel)

SAVE $10 on the Half with My Discount Code

Register early and you can run this half marathon for $55. The current price is $70 until April 4th.

You can use my code: "BRSARASOTA19" to SAVE $10 on the Half or Relay, or $5 OFF the 10K race. That means your half marathon price is back down to $60; the Relay is $90; and the 10K is $45.

Register soon for the best price! Take a look at the registration schedule:

(Photo credit: FW Sarasota Half)

Awesome Post Race Party on Sarasota Bay

The named sponsor is First Watch Daytime Cafe. They make some of the best breakfasts around. On race day make sure you get a yogurt parfait, and hot pancakes. They're delicious after running 13.1 miles.

Yep, that's a band on stage in the background. Post race there are drinks and breakfast foods to refuel all the runners after their races. Relax, eat, and enjoy the view. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Make sure you get a granola and yogurt parfait! (Photo credit: FW Sarasota Half)

Last year's race offered beer and sparkling seltzer as well as plenty of Gatorade and water. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

You'll Earn Big Beautiful Bling

Big bling was a thing in Sarasota long before the rest of the races caught on. Check out last year's dolphin medal. I've been tracking Sarasota's medals for the last 6 years, and they are always awesome! Their medals are some of my best race mementos.

The First Watch Sarasota Half and Relay is known for it's beautiful dolphin medals. This is the medal from 2018. Stay tuned for this years' medal. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

The First Watch Sarasota Half is part of Lifetime's Florida Storm Series. These runners earned extra bling by racing multiple half marathons. (Photo credit: FW Sarasota Half)

Read My 2018 Review and Register Early

If you want more info, you can read my review of the 2018 race. Check it out and then get yourself registered for this year's event. Remember, use "BRSARASOTA19" to SAVE $10 on the half or relay, and SAVE $5 on the 10K when you register online.

#RunSarasota #FirstWatchSarasota #HalfMarathon #OctoberHalf #RunFlorida #RaceDiscount #CouponCode #SaveMoney

Bib Rave Pro Year 2 Means More Discounts

2/9/2019

I'm happy to announce my second year as a BibRave Pro. It's a blast for me because I'm part of a team of running enthusiasts. It's good news for you because I'll have great brand and race discounts to pass along.

If you haven't visited my race discounts and brand discounts pages, do it. Bookmark those pages because they're updated on a regular basis.

I love that BibRave has codes for races all across the country all year long.

Below are a few new discounts. Don't be a stranger — I'll have more codes very soon.

My latest BibRave Pro gear just arrived. I love the Boco pom pom beanie and UnderArmour racing tank. I'll def wear my beanie next time I travel north. I've already put a few miles in wearing the racing tank! (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Discount Codes for Races and Brands

Rugged Maniac Obstacle Course in Dade City, FL

Start line of the Allstate Hot Chocolate 15K in Tampa.

Join Me for a Race in 2019

I'm committed to running the First Watch Sarasota Half in October, and the Allstate Hot Chocolate 15K in Tampa in December. If you're interested, grab a discount code and join me. See you at the starting lines!

#SarasotaBR #FirstWatchSarasotaHalf #SarasotaHalf #RunSarasota #RunTampa #HC15K #HC15KTampa #HotChocolate15K #FoodGrooveBR #RuggedManiac #RuggedBR #RuggedManiacDadeCity #FoodGrooveMission #SuperFoods #RaceDiscounts #DiscountCodes #BrandDiscounts #BibChat #BibRavePro #BRPAmbassador

Reminder: Blitz Pricing for #RunSarasota

3/29/2018

Disclaimer: I received a free entry to the 2018 First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon as a BibRavePro.

Register Early for 2019, Save Big Bucks

Today, you can register for the Half Marathon for $50, 10K for $50, and 2-person Relay for $80. But, these prices won't be around for long. When the early entry blitz is over, they're gone. Regular prices are higher. The race is worth every penny, but why not save some?

The pricing structure for 2019 Blitz is based on the number of entrants, rather than the date. Look at the price chart below to see what I mean.

Take advantage of 2019 Blitz Pricing and register now at http://SarasotaHalf.com

Read my This Old Runner Review of the First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon to learn more about the race course and amenities. It was lots of good food, views, free photos, and bling.

Race date is scheduled for March 24, 2019. Hurry to take advantage of 2019 Blitz Pricing on now at http://SarasotaHalf.com

Picture spot at First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon.

Picture spots. (Photo credit: @RunSarasota)

Runners on the John Ringling Causeway Bridge during half marathon race.

Sunrise over Sarasota. (Photo credit: @RunSarasota)

2018 First Watch Sarasota Half post race party.

The Finish Line Festival includes food, drinks, live music and awards overlooking Sarasota Bay. (Photo credit: Athlinks)

#RunSarasota #RunStPete #RunNaples #RunBradenton #RunTampa #AthlinksBR #HalfMarathon #DiscountPrices #BlitzPricing #SpringBreakRace

A Very Sparkly #MedalMonday

3/19/2018

I've run the First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon 3 times, and loved it every time. Even with 100% humidity yesterday, I really enjoyed the race.

Check out my review of the First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon & Relay on BibRave.com. I do an in-depth write up here. I have lots of good things to report.

In the meantime, take a look at the super sparkly bling below. Every finisher — half, relay and 10K took one home. If you want in on the fun next year, get ready to register on Tuesday, March 20th at Noon when blitz pricing begins!

Disclaimer: I received a First Watch Sarasota Half entry as part of being a BibRave Pro.
Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and
check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews!

2019 Early Bird Pricing for #RunSarasota

Registration for the 2019 First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon Relay & 10K opens Tuesday, March 20, at Noon EDT. Sign up early for the best price!

Half Marathon
$45 – First 200 registrants

Relay
$75 – First 40 registrants

10K
$40 – First 20 registrants

Picture of Sarasota Half Marathon Medal and This Old Runner.

The 2018 First Watch Sarasota Medal was inspired by the blue waters of Sarasota Bay where you can see lots of dolphins. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

#RunSarasota #FirstWatchSarasotaHalfMarathon #RunStPete #RunTampa #RunBradenton #RunNaples #BibRavePro #BibChat #SpringBreakRace #RunFlorida

7 Tips for Your First Half Marathon

3/16/2018

1. Study the Course Map

Course map for First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon and Relay.

This course map even identifies Selfie Stations aka scenic picture spots. #RunSarasota

Almost every race makes a course map available before the event. Take some time to get familiar with the race route.

Note the aid stations. Are they every mile or every other mile? Will they serve water and sports drink at some or all of the stations? What about gels?

Where are the restrooms? If it's a big race, be aware of the distance from porta pottys to the starting line. Make a mental note about on course restrooms. It's good to know just in case you need one during the race. Generally there are portables near every aid station.

The more you know, the more comfortable you'll be on the course.

2. Set Out Your Clothes and Gear

Laying out your race outfit the night before is helpful before any run, but especially the evening before your big race. It's a good way to make sure you don't forget something because you're nervous on race morning.

There's nothing worse than reaching the starting line without your hat, money, gels, or bib. If you picked up your race packet early, go ahead and pin your bib to your shirt. That's one less thing to think about.

Pack a shirt or jacket to wear after the race. Bring extra socks or sandals to make your feet dry and happy after 13 miles.

3. Get to the Starting Line Early

The best advice I have about the starting line is to get there early. Arrive with plenty of time so you can visit the restrooms, get a feel for the area, and seed yourself properly.

If you're late, things happen that mess with your race and your head. For example:

You end up in the wrong corral; not at your preferred pace.
You're stuck at the back of the pack behind walkers.
You think your planned finish time is screwed before you start.
You feel unsettled and frustrated.
You'll be tempted to weave through people.
(Don't. Weaving is hard work, and will tire you out early.)

Even when you're seeded in the right spot, some races have crowded, claustrophobic starting corrals. Try to stay calm and run your planned pace. The crowd will thin in the first mile, and you'll have room to run.

4. Start Slow and Run Your Own Race

I'll repeat that headline because it's really important. Start slow and run your own race.

It's easy to get caught up in the excitement as the race begins and run too fast. Your heart is pumping, you're ready to run, and everyone is racing. But wait just a minute. You're running 13.1 miles. Start slow so you can go the distance. If it's your first half marathon the goal is to finish. Period. Finishing is winning!

Run your own race means exactly that — run the race your body can run. Run the race you trained for and will enjoy. You'll be happy when you reach mile 13 and till have energy left to kick in your finish!

5. Hydrate and Fuel on a Schedule

Bananas, Nuun electrolytes and water bottle.

Make hydration and fuel a priority throughout your training, and especially during race week. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Eat a reliable, familiar breakfast on race morning. (Photo source: Google Images)

Most races announce what fuel is available on course. My next race has Gatorade Endurance. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Eat Breakfast

Try to eat an hour or more before your race so you can digest your food.

Don't eat anything new on race day. Eat a reliable meal you've had plenty of times before. A combination of carbs and protein are best.

If you normally drink coffee, then drink coffee. If you don't, today is not the day to start. You don't want any surprises during your half.

On Course Hydration

Almost every race offers water and/or sports drink every 1.5 miles. Bigger races may have aid stations at every mile.

If you carry water, use the aid stations as a reminder to drink. You may not want or need a drink at every station, but aim for every other at least.

If temperatures are warm, hydrate at every station. Stay ahead of your thirst by having a plan. You'll feel and perform better if you're properly hydrated.

If it's hot and you're sweating a lot you'll need electrolytes. Choose sports drink at every other stop or add some sports drink into your plain water each time.

It's okay to stop to drink your water at an aid station, but you MUST, MUST, MUST get out of the way of the other runners!

Grab your cup, move off the course, and sip away. That way you won't impede traffic or cause an accident.

I've seen some ugly things at water stations when inexperienced runners come to a sudden complete stop. (That goes for on course, too. If you're going to stop, raise your hand to alert other runners, then move off the course.)

Energy Gels and Chews

Check to see what gels or chews will be offered. If you've used the brand before, then use it on course. If you haven't, carry your own fuel and use that. Go ahead and take the fuel offered during the race, but save it to try later.

If you've never trained with gels or chews, don't try them for the first time during a race. It may or may not upset your stomach, but why risk it?

As with hydration, make a plan for fuel intake. Some people fuel based on mileage, others base it on time. The trick is to fuel regularly, even when you don't feel like it. Like hydration, you want to anticipate your needs, not play catch up.

6. In-Race Strategies

Divide the Race into Smaller Parts

Don't think about the finish line or 13 miles when you start. Break the race into smaller segments. Then celebrate when you reach each individual goal.

I hear runners at every half announcing "A third of the way done!" or "We're halfway there!" or, "Just 3 more miles!" It's a boost to acknowledge each accomplishment.

Pick a Pacer

If the race has official pacers, use them. They're experienced runners who help you stay on pace. I've run with some excellent pacers. The best ones are coaches who give you tips and distract you with conversation.

If you're not ready to run in a pack with a pacer, find your own unofficial pacer. As you're running, look for someone ahead of you who matches your pace. Think of them as your pacer, and stick with them.

Choose a runner who looks strong and steady. If you're lucky you'll follow them all the way to the finish line. (Maybe even kick past them at the end!) If your unofficial pacer gets tired and slows down, find someone else.

Play Pass and Repeat

Spot a runner ahead of you who you want to pass. Tell yourself, "I can take them." You want to keep your pace, but motivate yourself, too.

I like this strategy late in the race when I need a distraction. I've used it many times by telling myself things like: "I will not be beaten by someone dressed like a cartoon," or "No way is that 8-year old going to beat me," or "I can take that guy dressed as Gumby."

In fact, I was beaten by a 5-year old once, but this strategy worked great when I beat two runners dressed as "Fast Food." Give it a try!

Runners dressed as Gumby cross finish line.

Photo: Capitol 10K History. http://cap10k.com/10k-history/

7. Smile, Enjoy and Celebrate Your Race

Take a look around as you run. You'll see things running at street level that you'd never notice otherwise.

Take in the views. Smile at the spectators. Read all the signs. Talk to other runners. High five small children. Wave to the officers keeping the course safe. Focus on your music.

If you're energy dips, take a walk break. Catch your breath, straighten your shoulders, smile, and start running again.

The race will be a memory before you know it. Try to enjoy the entire experience.

Celebrate Your Finish!

Cross that finish line like you mean it. Dig deep for that last bit of energy and kick it in! Grin. Jump. Pump a fist. Give a high five. Do a happy dance.

Photo: lululemon athletica/Flickr

Runner does hand stand at finish line of race.

Photo: Maxisport/Shutterstock.com

Get your new bling and wear it with pride. Take a photo. Enjoy a post race banana and beer. Congratulations, you're a half-marathoner!

#RunSarasota #RunStPete #RunTampa #BibChat #BibRavePro #AthlinksBR #HalfMarathon #RaceTips #HalfMarathonTips #RaceDayAdvice #ThisOldRunner

Discount Update: Save Money on Every Race at the #FirstWatchSarasotaHalf, Relay & 10K

3/8/2018

Discount Code for March 18th Races in Sarasota

Woo hoo! The discount code now works for the new 10K event!

Everyone who runs in the First Watch Sarasota Half or Relay or 10K event will receive this beautiful bling when they cross the finish line! Plus you can SAVe $10 on the Half or Relay, and $5 on the 10K when you use code: SARASOTABIB18.

Don't wait, this race sells out every year. The code is good until online registration closes. See you at the starting line!

Picture of First Watch Sarasota Half Medal and Finishers.

(Photo credit: FW Sarasota Half and This Old Runner)

Disclaimer: I received a First Watch Sarasota Half entry as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews!

#RunSarasota #RunStPete #RunTampa #RunBradenton #RunFlorida #FloridaWestCoast #HalfMarathon #Relay #10K #BibRavePro #BibChat #ad #DiscountCode #RaceCode #PromoCode

Another Peek at the #RunSarasota Medal, Plus a Discount Code!

3/5/2018

Biggest Finisher Medal on Florida's West Coast

Just 11 days until it's time to join me at the First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon & Relay on March 18th! If you don't want to run a half or relay, you can register for the NEW 10K distance!

Every finisher receives a medal, and the most decadent post-race breakfast brunch courtesy of First Watch.

We went to the #Skyway10K expo at Tropicana Field on Saturday, and got another up close and personal look at the #RunSarasota medal we'll be bringing home in less than two weeks! Check out the medal and a couple of expo pics below.

(Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Crowds at Skyway10K expo near Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, FL

(Photo credit: This Old Runner)

People register for Sarasota Half Marathon at the Skyway10K expo.

(Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Skyway10K expo at Tropicana Field on Saturday, March 3.

(Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Use Code SARASOTABIB18 to SAVE $10 on the Half or Relay; $5 on the 10K

Use the discount code: SARASOTABIB18 to SAVE $10 on the half or relay. You can also use the code to SAVE $5 on the 10K distance. Woo Hoo! Everybody saves!

Disclaimer: I received a First Watch Sarasota Half entry as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews!

#BibChat #RunSarasota #SarasotaHalf #BibRavePro #RaceCode #DiscountCodes #RunStPete #RunTampa #RunNaples #RunBradenton #RunTampaBay #RunFlorida #SpringBreakRace #Skyway10K #TropicanaField #RaceExpo #RaceAmbassador #ad

First Watch Sarasota Half & Relay, and 305 Miami Half & 5K Medals Revealed!

2/23/2018

Saw these beauties in person at the #GasparillaDistanceClassic Expo today!
If you want to run in sunny Florida during March, here are two excellent races.

2018 First Watch Sarasota Half & Relay Medal.

(Photo credit: This Old Runner)

1. First Watch Sarasota Half and Relay
March 18, 2018. Use SARASOTABIB18 to SAVE $10 on the Half or Relay. BTW, they just added a 10K race! 10K finishers also receive this sparkly dolphin medal!

(Photo credit: This Old Runner)

2. 305 Miami Half & 5K
HURRY! This #RunMiami event is on March 4, 2018. Use BIBRAVEMB18 to SAVE $5 on the Half or 5K races. #Run305 #RunMIA #RunMiami

This one is interesting because you get one digit each of 3 years. Run this year for the 3, next year the 0, and the third year the 5. It's a 3-peat #Run305 medal when you're done!

#RunSarasota #RunMiami #RaceCode #DiscountCodes #PromoCodes #BibRavePro #BibChat #305Half #Run305 #RunTampa #RunStPete #RunMiamiBeach #RaceAmbassador #ad

4 Weeks 'til We #RunSarasota March 18, 2018

2/19/2018

My Hill Repeat Workouts are on Repeat

This week I'm doing hill repeats, and then repeating my hill repeats later in the week.

Why? I'm determined to be ready for the John Ringling Causeway Bridge. I want to take in the views of Sarasota and the bay as I climb and descend the Ringling Bridge on pace.

Sarasota First Watch Shirts

I really like the bright green shirts this year. I love a shirt that makes me visible when I'm running around town. The design is cool — each letter in Sarasota showcases something wonderful about the city. Dolphins, beaches, museums, gardens, runners, and all the views!

If you're looking for a Spring Break race in Florida, consider registering for the First Watch Sarasota Half and Relay on the West Coast of Florida on March 18, 2018.

You can run the half, or team up with a friend and run a relay. Please use my code: SARASOTABIB18 to save yourself $10 on either race.

Photo of participant shirts for the First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon and Relay on March 18, 2018.

Here's the Rest of the Runner SWAG:

Need more reasons to #RunSarasota? Here you go:

Gorgeous race course highlighting the city of Sarasota
- Aid stations every 1 to 1.5 miles; there will be water, Gatorade Endurance and restrooms.
- Live music, DJ’s and more.
- USATF certified course
Finisher Medal
- The biggest bling for half marathon and relay finishers in Florida
- 10K finishers medal
Bayside Finish Festival presented by First Watch
- First Watch gourmet breakfast buffet
- Live music at the post race party
- Complimentary beer (must be 21 yo; ID required)
- Beautiful views of Sarasota Bay before, during and after the race
Custom tech short-sleeve participant shirt in both men's and women's sizes
FREE race photos from Athlinks

See You at the Starting Line!

Disclaimer: I received a First Watch Half entry as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews!

#RunSarasota #Athlinks #BibRavePro #BibChat #RunStPete #RunBradenton #RunTampa #RunNaples #RunFortMyers #DiscountCode #RaceCode #PromoCode #SarasotaHalfMarathon #FirstWatch #SpringBreakRaces #SpringBreakHalf #SpringBreak

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