St Augustine Half Marathon this weekend

The downtown streets will become the course for the St Augustine Half Marathon this weekend, November 16-17; when thousands of participants from across the United States, and even internationally, participate in the family-oriented event to benefit Project Autism of St Johns.

The race route begins at Francis Field and will take runners through the history-filled streets of the city. The Half Marathon will culminate in the presentation of the “Ponce de Leon Grail of Endurance” on Sunday.

“Although the runners in the November 17 St Augustine Half Marathon are competing for a chance to cross the finish line first, or simply log their own personal best time, we will also be recognizing the most senior of runners, both male and female, who complete the race,” said Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Manager, Scott Hayford; representing the marathon’s presenting sponsor, Flagler Hospital. “The Ponce de Leon Grail of Endurance recognizes runners for their perseverance; not unlike that of the 500-year-old state of Florida, discovered by Ponce de Leon in 1513.”

In ceremonial tradition, the engraved pewter chalices will be filled with water from the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park and presented by an official re-enactor of Ponce de Leon, followed by a toast to the success, good health and longevity of the winners.

The schedule for the race is as follows:

Saturday November 16
7:00 a.m. St Augustine 10K
7:05 a.m. St Augustine Family 5K
9:00 a.m. St Augustine Kids’ Race

Sunday November 17
6:15 a.m. St Augustine Half Marathon presented by Flagler Hospital

The St Augustine Half Marathon, with the common goal of raising awareness and generating vital funds for autism research, is being presented by the St Augustine, Ponte Vedra, Visitors and Convention Bureau, and was organized by Miami Tri Events. The weekend activities will have the entire family excited and training together to reach goals appropriate to their individual athletic level; no matter where they place in their age division. Support for the event has been provided in part by Anastasia State Park, Publix, Advance Disposal, Beaver Toyota Scion of St Augustine, and the St Johns County Tourist Development Council.