"Running Is....Better in the Bahamas"

Runcations are always exciting but stressful. To help alleviate some of the stress the right traveling and running companions are a must. Christine and Chronda were just right for this adventure.

In addition to packing all your gadgets for the race (aftershokz earphones, spibelt, hydration bottle, TomTom running watch, UCAN nutrition, and Brooks running shoes), you must also consider your wardrobe for the weekend following all the restrictions of the airline's luggage rules. Let's face it, although you are going to run a race, there will still be some off the pavement shenanigans.

We arrived in the Bahamas midday on Friday giving us time to eat some Bohemian food in the fish trap; then we put on our little black dresses to experience the Bahamas nightlife.

About last night? Let's just say what happens in the Bahamas stays in the Bahamas. So glad the race was on Sunday.

We woke up Saturday morning, ordered room service for breakfast, then headed to the straw market before picking up our packets.

The expo (packet pick up) was very small with only one vendor that offered actual running paraphernalia. The other tables consisted of local organization information and health information such as breast cancer awareness.

I was somewhat disappointed because the expo for me is a great place to find new running gadgets. With this being the first International race, I was hoping to buy some unique items not offered in the states.

It’s race day! Just like any other race we get up at 4 am to meet the 5:15 am shuttle bus to the starting line. The energy of the runners and the announcer was fantastic.

As the race begins, before I could complete 1 mile, the heat and the humidity are already causing me to "sparkle." As I approach mile 2, I see the infamous hills ahead. Although I didn’t do much hill training for this race, I did not expect what I saw. If you remember watching the ”Price is Right” game show, I felt like that little man climbing up the mountain on the game show. Only I had to do it twice with no prize at the end.

The remainder of the course was flat; the scenery was beautiful. Running along the oceanfront was terrific. The finish line was on the beach, and the metal was gorgeous. Upon completing the race, after taking a few selfies, and group photos, all I could do was take off my shoes and compression socks and head into the ocean.