I did not originally plan to run the Marine Corps Half-Marathon this year but ended up scheduling it as a training run for the marathon team I was coaching for Team In Training. Looking back at it, I’m glad I did, because it was a fantastic run through some of my favorite parts of Jacksonville.

The historic district of Avondale dates back to the turn of the 20th century when The Great Fire of 1901 leveled most of the downtown area. Many of Jacksonville’s well-off families relocated to the west of downtown to rebuild, which became the Riverside/Avondale areas of town. Most of the Marine Corps Half-Marathon runs through this area of town.

The course actually starts downtown by the Jaguars Stadium and loops around two of the downtown bridges. From there, it runs out through Avondale to Fishweir Creek and back to downtown. Much of the course is lined with spectators from the neighborhood that have come out to cheer the runners.

Once back at the Finish area (Metropolitan Park) there are vendors and military displays for the family to enjoy.

This year’s event was especially nice weather though it did get a little warm near the end. My wife was stationed at various points along the course to take pictures of me and my running team, which was a nice motivator. I came into the Finish Line at 2:21:44 with a pace of 10:54 per mile, a personal best time.

This race is also part of the Tri-2B-Tuff Challenge which involves three half- or full marathons in three months. You must complete the Marine Corps Half-Marathon, the Outback Distance Classic Half-Marathon and either Jacksonville Bank Half-Marathon or full Marathon. Finishers get a technical shirt (short- or long-sleeve) and a medal.