FKT: Craig Winters - Tour of Myrtle Beach - 2025-07-17

Athletes
Route variation
Standard route
Multi-sport
No
Para athlete
No
Gender category
Male
Style
Unsupported
Start date
Finish date
Total time
2h 49m 32s
Report

Having visited family in Myrtle Beach for the last 30+ years, and as a three time finisher of the Myrtle Beach marathon, I was excited to see a local FKT.   I finally found a visit that I had a weather and time window to give the current record a run on July 17, 2025.  For this attempt, I decided to run in the same direction and start as the current record did.  I parked at a local hotel and walked to the corner of Grissom Parkway and Harrelson Boulevard.  I set an early start time because of the summer sun and high humidity/dew point.  So, at 4:54 am, I set out in the counterclockwise direction to take advantage of  a slight headwind breeze for the second half. There were public water fountains along the boardwalk just when I thought I'd run through my initial supply of a handheld flask and two smaller hip flasks.  The first few miles were much darker than I had anticipated and I would have benefited from a headlamp—but was familiar enough with the route.  Although those first 6 miles were well traveled, they were definitely less scenic routes.  There were a few crossings over 17 that slowed things a bit, but early in the morning was not so bad. I missed a turn on Ocean Blvd, but recalibrated a half of a block later to get back on course.   Once along the ocean, the breeze was critical and water fountains popped up at the perfect time at the boardwalk— which was a nice break from the streets.  After leaving the boardwalk, it was a long stretch on busy streets and the sun came out in full force from the airport to the finish, with just enough shade.  With the sun being out, I spent the last few miles pacing myself to finish in 2:49:32.  Overall, this was a nice route, especially for anyone familiar with the marathon course and a bit of nostalgia enough to enjoy the run.