Runner Reviews

2008 Clearwater Halfathon Feedback

Thanks for another great race. The wind added to the challenge which just made it all the better at the finish line. Looks like we had twice as many runners than we did for the first halfathon in 2006. I had the lowest run time I have ever had since running halfathons. In 2006, I finished at 2:14. This year, I finished at 1:48:37.
- Paul Fountain, Melbourne, FL

It was a well-organized race, although there was challenging weather yesterday. We'll be there next year! Thanks.
- Lary and Susannah Robinson, Tampa, FL

We really had a great time at yesterday's race. The weather was near perfect! I completed a personal record run, too. I wanted to be sure and express my gratitude to all the volunteers for being out there so early and in such cold weather. The support and enthusiasm of the race staff was great. Thank you for your effort in putting the race program together.
- Mark McCatty, Tampa, FL

I had a great time this morning. It was a chilly start but 'warmed' up quickly. Thanks again for everything!!
- Laurie Pelletier, New Port Richey, FL

Kudos for ANOTHER well-organized and well-run event yesterday. The event was first class from start to finish. Now, if you can just do a little something about the weather for next year ...
- Chris Petrock, Tampa, FL

Thanks for a truly wonderful and memorable race! I was particularly impressed by the fantastic course and the wonderful volunteers. The winding path down from the bridge toward the finish line could be your logo, as runners wind their way down on all levels toward the sidewalk. When I approached from above, I saw runners on every level. It reminded me of the shape of the Guggenheim Museum in NY. I thought the weather was actually perfect with the cold air and even the wind. It made the race a great deal of fun and I wish more weather like this upon distance running in Florida. Your volunteers are a hardy bunch who were kind and gracious to the runners. Great course, great views, and great organization. Thanks a lot for everything you all did and a great running experience.
- Jude Ryan, San Antonio

Congratulations on yesterday's event. It was a most enjoyable experience, and very well organized. Thank you!
- Suzanne Sillitoe, Wesley Chapel, FL

Great race yesterday. It's a tough course but wonderful training. My husband, James Krivacs, finished 2nd in his age group yesterday. I'm so proud of him. This is his best time in the half in 20 years!
- Vickie Krivacs, Palm Harbor, FL

I ran in the Clearwater Halfathon this past weekend. My two friends from Oviedo, Lisa Bal and Marcy Byers, came too and ran the run with me. We had a blast and look forward to making this a girls' annual running event. Thank you for your time and for sponsoring such a beautiful run. I know myself as well as many others had a great time.
- Sandy Dunn, Oviedo, FL

Thank you for a great race, the organization and support was excellent! I will be there next year for sure!
- Elaine Storey, Tampa

Thank you for a well-run race on Sunday, although I wish you would have ordered no wind! The temp I can handle, just the wind was a little rough.
- Nola Johnson, Tarpon Springs

I have run 5 of your half marathons now and have tremendously enjoyed each one. The beer and pasta at the end was very much appreciated and far more satisfying than other runs that just provide fruit and pre-packaged muffins.
- Tom Karpowich, Tampa

Thank you for putting on a great race last Sunday. I seriously considered staying in my warm bed, but I'm very glad that I didn't. You guys did a great job, once again.
- Sharon BeltrandelRio, Clearwater

First, thanks a lot for putting on a great race. My wife ran the 5 mile and I ran the halfathon, it was well organized and great fun, it was a pleasure to run with such a friendly bunch of runners. We would certainly run the event(s) again. Thanks again.
- Matt and Jess Olney, Visiting Research Scientist,USF Department of Geology, Tampa, FL

I loved the course, it's beautiful; I especially like the corkscrew exit off the bridge on the return, that's different. I came for the Clearwater Memorial Bridge and it didn't disappoint; the Pass Bridge and Sand Key park are keepers too. I think it's a fast course, because the hill inclines are not that steep, and what you lose going up, you make up going down. The variety on the course kept the interest up, to keep up to speed: the hills break up the flat running, there are the views of the water and the shore, the trees in the park and the buildings on the boulevard. And I thought we benefitted from the cold weather, because it encouraged us to exert more - we didn't have to worry about overheating. I also liked the hot pasta dinner after the race. Thank you for putting the race on.
- Greg Kaputa, Tampa

This is the first time I participated in your event and I will be back next year. All your volunteers were helpful and friendly. Great venue, with no hassle in parking. Keep up the great work.
- Denise Abramo, Palm Harbor

Your performance (all who contributed, in particular, personnel that volunteered to include the details such as warm food at the end of the race), across the board, was nothing less than OUTSTANDING. The tireless hours you devoted to this task were instrumental to the success of the Halfathon. I know that it took long, hard hours of work and considerable personal sacrifice to correlate the myriad details necessary to ensure the success of this great event. Your display of exceptional skill and resourcefulness in coordinating the Half-marathon are noteworthy. I applaud your accomplishments and extend to you my personal WELL DONE.
- Manny Cordero, Alexandria, VA

It's getting better every year! This has never been one of my favorite training courses. However, the police were great and kept traffic controlled. The volunteers that had to stand in the cold (at least I got to keep warm by running) did you proud. Good HOT food and plenty of beer at the party! Thanks for your efforts; see you next year!
- Arlene Swartz, Tampa

I enjoyed the run and would strongly recommend it to anyone planning on doing a 1/2 marathon. You did a great job.
- John Murphy, Winnipeg, Canada

Let me start by saying "Thank you" for all of the work and effort that went into coordinating such an event. I ran my first half marathon with your group in Clearwater this year. Although, I can't say I enjoyed every minute of it, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience! I discovered the joy of running this summer. It has made all the difference. Thank you again for an incredible race and all of the effort that went into planning it!
- Tiffany Lukasik, St. Petersburg, FL

Outstanding course and support. It was my first Clearwater Half and won't be my last. Many thanks to all involved!
- Frank Malczyk, St. Petersburg

Thank you very much for sending me the medal I won in the age group awards. I was getting very cold that morning waiting after the race so I left a bit early. It was a fun race and I sure hope to come back again next year. Thanks again.
- Jack Jacobs, Bradenton, FL

While I felt like I was 69 when I finally staggered across the finish line, I am actually a much more youthful 49 years old. I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed the race (after the first five minutes to warm up!), despite the wind. It was much nicer than the seventy-degree temperatures + sun we've had the first two years. (You can tell I'm not Florida-born!). And a thank you for all the other races you have organized that I have run - six in all, now. Cheers.
- Malcolm Macdonald, Oldsmar

Thank you for your continuing interest, effort and perseverance in putting on the two events in December and January. It's fun looking forward to and participating in your races that end the year and start off a new one. You always do a nice job and we appreciate the hard work to make each event a memorable experience. (And you don't even control the weather....) Many thanks to you, the helpers and the volunteers who support the runners. We've marked our calendars for the next two, of course, and a college graduation in West Palm Beach on Saturday 12/13 only means an early morning drive on Sunday 12/14 to make the start of the Holiday Halfathon. Thanks again for great races.
- Glenn and Leslie Jacobs, New Port Richey

This was my first 1/2 marathon and I was just so happy to run 13 miles. I left before the awards because the results had me in fifth place. I didn't think that I could get bumped up. Anyway, I appreciate the additional starfish. My race day could not have been any better. Thanks again!
- Virginia Edmonds, St. Petersburg

2007 Clearwater Halfathon Feedback

Great race this morning for the 5-miler!! Thanks.
- Nina Register, Tampa, FL

The race was well worth the trip from CT!!! Thanks for a great race!
- Ken Tulloch, Cos Cob, CT

Thanks again for hosting a fine event. Know that you put together a good show...had a GREAT bunch of volunteers...and the day went well. CONGRATS.
- Larry Van Fossen, Brooksville Racewalker 2:32 (damn dem bridges)

Thanks for a great run! After two surgeries in the last quarter, didn't think I could do it, but am so glad I did. Great route, beautiful views and good support. Had a wonderful time. Surgery prevented me from attending the Dec/Madeira run, but I'll be at both next year. Thanks again!
- Suzanne Dubose, 2:12:39, Sarasota, FL

Well, you did it again – What a great race. The accolades from the finishers were plentiful and positive. I had one gentleman from Maine who thought the weather, course and the race was first class. Glad that I could be a part of it. The volunteer that we had handing out the medals - Kim, was a big positive. She was always up and positive and very congratulatory to all the runners. It just keeps getting bigger and better each race. Nice job!!
- Jim McAvaddy, finish line crew

Thanks for another great race. This was my first time running the Clearwater Halfathon. The race was excellent organizationally. The layout was great, the course was well marked, and kudos to the police and volunteers. I had a great time, great run, and enjoyed meeting some new folks. I also beat the time I ran the Holiday Halfathon in December. The only glitch! The wind was brutal coming back over the bridge to the finish. Thanks again for all the hard work you and your volunteers put in making this race successful.
- Ken Dent, Homosassa, FL

The organization of yesterday's race was great. Thanks to you and everyone who helps those events become reality. Thank you.
- Rick Neuzil, Largo FL

I thought this weekend's race went well, from my vantage point. Many good compliments at finish line; Ric's putting extra info in the computer, such as birthdays, etc, makes it even better for the athletes.
- Brian Harrington, Announcer

The halfathon yesterday was a really good race, as was the one you had in December and the full marathon in October with Dean, I ran them all. Thank you.
- Anna Reschar, St. Petersburg, FL

What an awesome race. That was the most fun I have ever had. I have run probably 20 races now but that was the best. I still have that ear-to-ear smile on my face and that overpowering confident feeling after you have crossed the finish line. I have had that addictive runner's high for three days now. I feel like a kid again. I can't wait for the next race. These endurance events that you put on, create stories for guys like me - you are changing lives. What a great feeling of satisfaction you must feel. Thanks and have a great day!
- Allen Weatherilt, Clearwater

Great 1/2 marathon, really enjoyed the experience.
- Karen Franke, Virginia Beach, VA

My wife, Ruth, had the honor of finishing last in this past weekend's run (she was very happy to finish and, in fact, set a new PR @ 3:02:40). Thanks for a fun race.
- Dave McConnell, St. Petersburg

Great job on the race this past weekend. It was my 2nd year running it and although it is a tough course, my friends and I enjoyed it. The aid stations and police officers were fantastic and a great post-party! Once again, thanks for everything - awesome race!
- Jackie Cahill, Tampa

Just wanted to let you know that I had an awesome time running the 5 miler on Sunday. The bridge wasn't as bad as I thought......until I ran into the wind the entire time on the way back!!!! I came to Florida for the week and saw the race advertised in the Runner's World website and couldn't have asked for a more organized and well-run race. All of the information regarding construction and parking was sent in a timely fashion and there were no surprises on race day. I will definitely fly in from Chicago next year to run in the race again, next time for the halfathon. Thanks for a great race experience!!!!
- Cindy Placko, Niles, Illinois

Had a great time – had never done a half marathon before, only full marathons. My nephew and I did the race together. He had never done any type race before and I used it as a tune-up for the Myrtle Beach Marathon. The bridges were fun – except when going up the last bridge into a head-wind!! Made for a really great workout!! Race was well organized. I enjoyed the park section – very scenic and a little whimsical going up and down the aisles to get the extra yardage we needed. The double helixes were distinctive and fun. Had never run an exit ramp before. Finally, the ending potions were excellent: the beer was cold and plentiful, the food was appreciated, and the medal was distinctive. I plan on doing either the half again next year, or, if it is offered, the full marathon. Keep up the good work!!
- Bob Petersen, Columbia, SC

This was the first year I have run this half marathon. I ran in last year's Gulf Beaches. The course was beautiful, reminded me why I live in Florida. I could have done without all that wind but I guess even Mother Nature pushes you to limits you didn't know you could reach. Your volunteers were amazing and the oranges at mile 9 were refreshing. Thank you for all your hard work putting on this event, I am sure the group of us that ran this year will be back and bring some friends next year ...
- Merle Trichon

I have run the Gulf Beaches for each of the past two years so I was looking forward to the same standards for this race as your other race and I was not disappointed.
1. The Clearwater police did an outstanding job of helping out. I felt like I, as a runner, was in charge of the city's police force. You know I am stretching it a bit, but they really went out of their way with the traffic control on such that I felt very much welcome there.
2. The course was as advertised. However, the bridges really weren't too much of a challenge on the way out, inbound was another matter, though.
3. The organization of the event was very well done.
4. Communications (email) updates are terrific. It kept me informed but also helped build excitement and focus.
5. Offering water or Gatorade at every stop, not just water. And a neutral flavor of Gatorade too.
6. Not offering PowerAde. (It takes like syrup and upsets my stomach)
- Tom Karpowich, Tampa, FL

Wonderful race...great location...outstanding people...and the best medal for my collection...THANKS!
- Mary Ann Hodges, Manteo, NC

Being from the north and a longtime, regular Floridian vacationer, this was our first Florida race. What a great one!! The bridges were exceptionally challenging, but the weather (even the wind!), scenery, course, and volunteers made it a great run. We LOVE our starfish medals!! GREAT RACE!!! We'll be back next year!
- Maria Antonelli, Seven Hills, OH

The race was so wonderful, everyone did an excellent job. Thank you.
- Rose Cridlen, Ft. Myers, FL

I had a great time participating as your volunteer singer. I do not think my first attempt was an A Game effort but maybe with training and more practice, I will do better. Louise said the Devil Rays have tryouts for persons to sing the national anthem during the season, so this experience has inspired me to try to move from single A to the major leagues.
- Donald Hale, Orlando, FL

The race was challenging, the hills and the wind were intense, but the views were beautiful. We forwarded pictures of the medals to our sisters and invited them to Tampa to run with us next year.
- Scott and Victoria McWilliams, Tampa

This was my best timing on half marathon! Everything in the race was almost perfect. Thank you!
- Ann Luefan, Clearwater, FL

You folks did an excellent job. Visiting from Baltimore, I enjoyed the scenery, water view and the park and, of course, the mild temp. I also liked the challenge of the bridge and wind. There were mile markers, plenty of porta-potties, and snacks at the end. The awards (gold starfish) were excellent and appropriate for a beach side run. Also, the woman announcing the winners was very personable and enthusiastic. I hope you don't try to make the races TOO large – as in 1000s. Great job!! -
Kent Walker, Ruxton, MD

Very well-run race. Lots of helpful volunteers. Course was scenic, challenging, well-marked. Thanks for a fun race!
- Ginger Bean, Tampa

Congratulations on the huge increase in participants for last Sunday's race. Since most of our local races are on flat courses, I think people enjoy the challenge of that tough Clearwater course, and the same for the lesser hills of the Holiday Halfathon. I want you to know that I will always support you.
- Joe Burgassser, St. Petersburg

The half marathon was very challenging with the bridges and the wind! The scenery was great and the positioning of the finish line was great – coming off that last bridge and curved walkway, to actually see the finish right there was quite a relief. With more hill training, I'll see you next year.
- Jill Mirts, Lutz

I had a great time and plan on doing it again next year.
- Steve Karpacs, Tampa

The course was great. The bridge at the end was tough, but we all knew that going into this race. The course "marshalls" were very good, police controlling the traffic were great, but I'm sure there were some mad tourists. The Starfish medal is cool.
- Jerry Fett, Treasure Island, FL #593

I commend your team for an excellent race. I ran the Halfathon and found the course to be scenic and challenging with the bridges. The organization and traffic control were flawless. The course was easy to follow and made runners and walkers of all fitness levels able to enjoy the day. I completed your full marathon in 2003 and also enjoyed the out-and-back course designed for this event. Thanks for all the hours of planning and organization to make this event happen.
- Rich Gibson, St. Petersburg

Thanks for a great race. This was my first half marathon and it was a good one. The location was excellent, course was definitely challenging and scenic. I know the area and was quite familiar with the Sand Key Bridge. However, I did not remember that they had opened the new Memorial Causeway Bridge. Quite a surprise, but I ran every step of it! My legs hurt pretty bad for the three days following. I would still do it again. It was a great time. Thanks for a great day!
- Caren Reynolds, Tampa

This was only my 2nd halfathon, the first being the Holiday Half. I was a little worried about this one being that much more challenging, but was pleasantly surprised to cut 33 minutes off of my previous time. It definitely was more challenging due to the bridges, but this time I ran as much as I could and knew that my body could handle the mileage. It is great having the portolets as needed and all of the volunteers. I am anxiously looking forward to next year. Thanks for a great time.
- Kathy Robinson