The Critz Tybee Run Fest is Feb. 1-2, and organizers anticipate a solid turnout. “Early bird” discounted registration rates ended Nov. 3 and exceeded expectations. Nearly 1,000 participants registered.

The Critz Tybee Run Fest was represented for the first time at the annual Savannah Rock N’ Roll Marathon expo, sharing a booth with Tybee Tourism, and drew large crowds on both expo days. The Critz Tybee Run Fest staffers constantly were busy registering runners for the upcoming event, selling race T-shirts and giving out information on tourism and race-related topics.

Many registered runners have opted to participate in a full marathon by combining all five races — 5K, 10K, half marathon, 2.8-mile beach run and 1-mile fun run. The 1-mile, 5K and free “Kiddie Run” proved to be popular with families that have small children.

The Critz Tybee Run Fest organizers have expanded the event for 2013 by increasing visibility at several Lowcountry- and Coastal Empire-area events.

“Our goal is to reach a large demographic of runners and potential runners and support our mission of advocating a healthy lifestyle from a young age. The Critz Tybee Run Fest has partnered up with the 2012 Food Day and The Savannah Forsyth Farmers’ Market to show that a healthy lifestyle requires a combination of healthy eating and exercise,” said Dale Critz Jr., title sponsor and co-founder of the Critz Tybee Run Fest.

Early-bird registration is over, but runners still can take advantage of discounts and specials offered at other upcoming promotional events and expos. The Savannah River Bridge Run Expo in December will offer opportunities to sign up.

“We expect a steady increase in registrations over the next two months and are confident that the 2013 event will exceed registrations from the previous year. We are predicting a sold-out event — as in 2012 — and are encouraging all runners to sign up early to be sure to secure a spot in this fun and exciting run fest,” Critz said.

The Critz Tybee Run Fest features five race courses, a weekend-long entertainment lineup, food and drinks.

Registration instructions, race descriptions, event information, suggested lodging and other event-specific details can be found at www.critztybeerun.com or at www.facebook.com/crtiztybeerunfest. Registration also is available at Fleet Feet Sports Savannah.