Aside from the heat, I had pretty much the opposite experience as the previous reviewer (I ran this…read morerace in May 2019): My race started exactly on time. There were a lot of staff around at the starting line and at the aid stations to answer questions and help me fill my hydration vest. They also did have a small booth at the finish line selling T shirts, towels, buffs, and a few other race-related items. I also saw there was a little runner's general store (sold gels, tape, socks, etc) setup at the 50-mile start line. Overall, I felt this race was very well organized and just the right size to allow for the race day excitement without the over-crowding of your average marathon. I think this is a very good race for a first-timer, regardless of which distance you are running (this was my first 50-miler). The volunteers at this race are wonderful, caring, dedicated people. This is a road race, but has the friendly, fun atmosphere of a trail race. I ran this uncrewed without any issues (all I needed were a 2L hydration vest and a few gels and snacks to get me from one aid station to the next). The aid stations were always fully stocked when I went by. The heat and glaring sun were brutal; heat training and ice bandanas make the race much easier. Without the heat and humidity, this race might be a little too easy, anyway.

I have been running marathons for about 4 years now, and really enjoy running. Sure, there are…read moreplenty of days when I hate it, but I understand and can see that the long term goal is the goal, for lack of better terminology. My goal is to eventually qualify for the Boston Marathon but that will take time. I have run 7 marathons but never an Ultra. I signed up for the 50 mile race on this occasion. One of my customers was discussing his past life as an Ultra runner and it got me intrigued. I did some research and found that the Keys 100 is an ultra that gives back to the community by fundraising for several charities. I chose to run for the Cancer Foundation of the Keys and raised $2000! Now, about the race: I am giving four stars for everything. The race itself was great. Florida in mid May is hot so there is not getting around that. There were hydration stops every 10 miles so it is almost imperative to have a personal crew assist you. I was drinking tons of fluid (almost 4 gallons) during the race, but the hydration stops had Gatorade, tailwind, and other nutrition like cold baked potatoes, bananas, oranges, sandwiches, and some candies. The support staff were always encouraging, even during the 90 minutes of hard steady rain that blanketed the course in one of the wettest months in FL history. My reason for four stars deals with the lack of merchandise available to purchase after the race (absolutely none) and the lack of organization before the start of the 50 miler. The start crew was 45 minutes late to the start which made everyone rush around at the beginning. There was a mandatory class about safety that started very late and added some stress to the day. Overall, a great race with great staff. The course is very beautiful but very hot!! I doubt I will ever do another 50 miler but the 50K is a possibility.