In 2012, the Critz Tybee Run Fest will allow runners of all levels to participate in the newly designed Marathon Festival. Robert Espinoza, the Critz Tybee Run Fest race director, recently released details on the five race courses, which, when combined, equal the marathon distance of 26.2 miles.
The race weekend is the first of its kind and presents the opportunity for a variety of runners to participate in a marathon event.
The 5K event, happening as a night run at 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, will take runners around the area known as North Beach with the backdrop of the Tybee Lighthouse. The race will be the celebratory start and combine a sports idea with fun elements, as runners are encouraged to dress up if they want to participate in the costume contest.
The day will wrap up with a party at the Light House parking lot, sponsored by North Beach Grill of Tybee. This portion of the run fest will benefit the restoration of the Historic Post Theatre on Tybee Island.
The next day, Saturday, Feb. 4, will bring four races:
• The 10K run at 7 a.m. showcases a route along the Back River and residential neighborhood.
• The half marathon at 8:30 a.m. leads runners through much of Tybee Island, along Butler Avenue and finishing on Tybrisa, facing the Atlantic ocean.
• The 2.8-mile beach run at 1 p.m. will run from the Tybee Pier in an out-and-back course along the beach, finishing on Tybrisa Street.
• The 1-mile run at 2:30 p.m. will start on 15th Street and finish in the festival area on Tybrisa Street.
The day will conclude with an afternoon party around the pier area and the medal ceremony for all events.
“Tybee Island, its residents and businesses are thrilled to welcome the Critz Tybee Run Fest and all its participants and visitors in February 2012,” Tybee Island Marketing Director Lindsay Fruchtl said. “We are looking forward to a great weekend that will not only showcase an athletic event, but as well offer great activities around the island for participants and accompanying friends.”
Registration is available online, via mail or in person at Fleet Feet Sports Savannah.
For race maps and more information, go to www.critztybeerun.com/course or www.facebook.com/critztybeerunfest.