This years Life Time Miami Marathon and Half was my first Half Marathon, and will definitely not be my last(already signed up for next year through their past participant early registration). Packet/shirt pickup was Friday/Saturday at the Miami Beach Convention Center before the race on Sunday. I thought it was a pretty big inconvenience to make a whole extra trip down to Miami (I live in Broward), but after experiencing the hectic-ness of the morning of the race, I understand and greatly appreciate the early pickup. Packet pickup was super easy, and there were tons of vendors there and walking around was a fun time.
Race day: Bayside was PACKED(and this year they capped it at 15,000 runners). We took the metro straight to Bayside after parking at Dadeland. We got there around 5:30 and the first wave was at 6ish. I will say that the only negative about the day was the almost total lack of signs/directions (and staff with identifying shirts) as to where to go. I wandered around looking for the bag drop for a while, but once I found it it was quick. Port-a-pots: NO EVENT EVER HAS ENOUGH. I waited in line for about 25 minutes which isn't too bad really, but next year they need to at least double what they had. Made it to my bay and my run started around 6:35. The course was awesome, with plenty of water/Gatorade stations, and cheering stations to keep the morale up. After finishing there were tons fo free drinks, snacks, and a lunch provided. There were tons of vendor tents set up and the option to hang out and party the whole day, but I was beat and ready to go straight home. It was such a fun event and I can't wait until next year! read more