Myrtle Beach is proud to host one of the best winter marathons in the country on Valentine’s Day — The Myrtle Beach Marathon! There are many things that make the Myrtle Beach Marathon a great reason to visit the Grand Strand in February. The marathon itself is the big attraction, boasting some of the fastest times of any race in the country due to the flat course. The 26.2 mile course winds through the heart of Myrtle Beach, with much of the route running down scenic Ocean Boulevard. This gives runners and spectators plenty of ocean views throughout the race. Runners come from all over the country, with participants from the Carolinas, New Jersey, Ohio, Virginia, Florida, and many other areas.
Even if the 26.2 is too far for you, don’t worry! The weekend is packed full of events for all ages and fitness levels. There is a half-marathon on Valentine’s Day,starting at the same time as the full marathon. There is a bicycle ride on the 15th, with rides of 10, 30, and 63 miles available. A 5K warms up the weekend on Friday the 13th, and anyone and everyone can get in on the action with a Fun Run and party Friday evening. You can also check out the Race Expo, full of vendors and fitness services, which goes on all weekend at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center. After it’s all over, relax and unwind at one of two post-race parties. One is hosted by Ripley’s Aquarium on Friday, one by the House of Blues on Saturday. Running is only part of the fun!
I almost forgot to mention that all the fun is for some good causes. Prize money isn’t awarded. Instead, the proceeds go to the Horry County Red Cross, the Leukemia Society, and Horry County Schools.
Do you need another reason to run 26.2 miles in Myrtle Beach? I don’t think so!
Posted on Monday, January 05, 2009 by Len Lashower