Disclaimer: I received an entry into the 2023 Publix Savannah Women's Half Marathon to evaluate as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to find and write race reviews.
Last Saturday (4/1) I ran my 5th Publix Savannah Women's Half Marathon. Savannah is one my favorite in state run-cation destinations. It is a beautiful city with relatively flat terrain. I can also make it an overnight or weekend excursion if I choose. This year I was excited to come back to run the half marathon to kick off my spring racing season. This race has become part of my spring running tradition.
This year, my goal was to finish strong and pain-free. I have just gotten over self diagnosed plantar fasciitis and I grateful that I can run and walk normally. So how did the race go?
The Expo
The expo was held Charles Morris Center on Friday, March 31, the day before the race. I arrived early to pick up my bib, water bottle, and Brooks-branded duffle bag and visit the vendor booths. Packet pick up was quick and simple. There were plenty of volunteers to direct traffic and help take pictures. Fleet Feet Savannah had a large booth and were selling Brooks shoes and other gear. I was a bit disappointed that they were not offering any expo sales on the merchandise. I didn't purchase anything from the expo, but I did have time to take pictures.
After the expo, I had lunch and hit the road to visit Tybee Island. You can't visit Savannah not enjoy the food and beach. It was a cold day at the beach.
Race Day
The race started at 7:30 am at Forsyth Park. I arrived early so I can could take advantage of street parking. The half marathon and 5k were combined at the start and we were divided into waves. I was in Wave 2. The race offered pacers for the half marathon. The 5k eventually split near the end of their race.
I completed the race as an easy run and added intervals about halfway through. I enjoy Savannah's flat terrain, but my heels and Achilles don't aways agree. The intervals helped conserve my energy and buffer the impact of the flatness. I had fun along the course with the spectators and talking to other runners that were running around my pace. There were times when the weather started to warm up during the race, but overall it was a pleasant run. When my soul got weak, I reminded myself that I didn't have to climb the Talmadge Bridge.
I finished the race in 2:34:18 and I was excited to get across the finish line. I ran pain-free and my foot also didn't hurt after the race. The race end with beautiful, well deserved medals.
Overall, I enjoy the race and look forward to running it in 2024. My improvements for the race would be to offer more expo discounts and to increase the number of spectators during the course by offer a cheering competition amongst the different groups.
