Kim and I decided to run the Space Coast Marathon with our friend Natalie. The journey started off dramatically when we woke up to a sheet of ice on the morning of our flight. Trees were down, blocking the roads, and Kim had to take an alternate route to get us to the airport in time. Despite the rough start, we made it and landed in Tampa, where we stayed with Natalie’s family.
We had just learned Natalie is a triplet! Meeting her sisters was fascinating—they talked the same and had identical mannerisms, which was both amusing and intriguing.
On race morning, we drove to Cocoa Beach, Florida, in the dark. We had some time to wait before the start, which allowed us to soak in the atmosphere. When the race finally began, it was a spectacle.

A massive megatron displayed a space shuttle launch, accompanied by David Bowie’s "Ground Control to Major Tom." As the shuttle launched, so did the race, creating an unforgettable start.
The course was a two-loop design, heading north first before turning around and then going south. We stuck with the 3:45 pace group, and I felt pretty good overall. I kept the mood light with stories and laughter, but I had a moment of surprise when a squirrel darted in front of me, prompting a scream that startled everyone around me!
Crossing the finish line was a relief and a reward. Instead of the usual heat shields, we were handed really nice beach towels, which felt fitting for the Florida setting.
However, as I approached to get my medal, I suddenly felt nauseous. A volunteer kindly directed me, saying, "Medals this way, throwing up that way." Fortunately, I didn’t get sick and happily collected my medal.
The Space Coast Marathon was a "one and done" race for me. I enjoyed the course and the unique space-themed experience, but I’m glad to check it off my list. It’s definitely a race I’ll remember!
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