What distances are available for this event?

• →Half Marathon starting at 6:30 AM
• →Sunrise: 7:04 AM — expect pre-dawn start conditions requiring reflective gear
• →Sunshine State Lager 5 Miler starting at 7:00 AM
• →5K starting at 7:10 AM

What is the race day schedule?

• →Half Marathon start: 6:30 AM (3.5-hour time limit for walkers; 5-hour cutoff for all participants)
• →Sunshine State Lager 5 Miler: 7:00 AM
• →5K: 7:10 AM

What can participants expect along the course?

• →A scenic out-and-back route starting at Front Street Park in downtown Melbourne
• →Traverse eastbound across the Melbourne Causeway onto the barrier island, with a turnaround near Riverside Place
• →Gentle bridge crossings with minimal elevation change
• →Four extended straightaways providing opportunities for even pacing
• →Consistent waterfront views along the Indian River Lagoon and Indian River Boulevard (US-1)

What are the race day logistics?

• →Packet pickup available Saturday 10:30 AM–5:00 PM at Front Street Civic Center or Sunday morning starting at 5:15 AM until 10 minutes before your race start
• →No race-day parking permitted at Front Street Park or adjacent boat ramp—plan shuttle transportation or off-site parking
• →Technical shirts sold separately; not included with registration to reduce textile waste

What notable features are included in the event?

• →Live musical entertainment with up to 12 bands positioned along the half marathon route
• →Sustainability-focused event using recycled metals for finisher medals and comprehensive waste diversion practices
• →Post-race celebration at Front Street Park with craft beer sampling (Carib Brewery) and waterfront atmosphere
• →Officially recognized by Runner's World as "One of America's Top 10 Bucket List Waterfront Races"

Is the event walker-friendly?

• →Walker-friendly for all distances except the full marathon option (if offered)

What is the course terrain like?

• →Predominantly flat with only modest bridge inclines, characteristic of Florida's coastal geography

Is the course eligible for Boston Marathon qualification?

• →The course delivers consistent waterfront views and four extended straightaways, making it a potential Boston Marathon qualifying course for competitive runners

What is the significance of the event's branding?

• →Despite "Florida Marathon Weekend" branding, this event is primarily centered around the half marathon distance. The official race website consistently markets it as the "Health First Florida 1/2 Marathon," and course descriptions focus on the half marathon experience. While registration platforms list a full marathon option, the event's historical identity and promotional materials emphasize the half marathon as the flagship distance.