I am an Ambassador for the Best Damn Race series. In exchange for my promotion and honest reivew of the events, I receive complimentary race entries and other amenities. All opinions are my own.
After some thinking and consideration, i’ve decided that BDR Safety Harbor is my perfect comeback half marathon. It’s been almost two years since I ran a half, when you consider my broken leg and the pandemic, so this is a goal that’s been a long time in the making. Is October the time (the 16th and 17th to be exact)? I think, yes.
Best Damn Race is near and dear to my heart. I wasn’t lucky enough to get in on the first years of the series, but I’ve been pretty dedicated to the events since then, even becoming an Ambassador! I have run in Orlando and Jacksonville, and it would be great to add another location to my roster of completed races.
BDR Safety Harbor is the OG Best Damn Race
That’s right! Best Damn Race originated in Safety Harbor, and we all know that the original is usually the best. For my return to the half marathon distance, I really want something epic and special, and this checks the boxes. I love the idea that my comeback will be at a new-to-me event, for a race series I adore.
BDR Safety Harbor Promises To Be A Great Time
No matter what, Best Damn Race offers an incredible race experience. From the courses, to the volunteers, to the runner swag, to the free photos, it’s always amazing. Of course, COVID precautions will be in place, but I know that the Race Director and his crew will do his “damn-dest” to make sure the runners get the BDR experience they know and love. Just a little safer.
The Course Sounds Pretty Amazing
Based on other runners’ experiences and the course map, this one sounds pretty fantastic. The Best Damn Race Half Marathon starts and ends at the Safety Harbor Marina, and runs all along the waters of Tampa Bay. Long runs are always better when you have something gorgeous at which to look, so I’m all over that. It’s also great to have something new to see – somehow runs don’t seem so hard when the course is unfamiliar and fresh.
BDR Has The Best Bling
I’m a bling girl. Always have been; always will be. Best Damn Race is known for its incredible medals, and these are no exception. I love dolphins, so I am 100% behind brining this beauty home for my medal rack. To be honest, I wish I could run the Double or Triple challenge, which includes multiple distances for multiple medals, but it probably wouldn’t be the wisest thing.
I’ll Get To See Some of My Favorite Running People
One of the things I’ve missed thhe most over this time is my running friends. I hang with some really incredible local runners, but I miss my long-distance running friends something fierce. Best Damn Race connected me with so many fabulous people, so it only makes sense to return to where it all began!
BDR Safety Harbor Means A Racecation Weekend
Even more than actual racing, I miss racecations. The idea of traveling somewhere, staying in a hotel or rental house, and getting to run in that destination? Heaven! By the time October rolls around, I’m hoping that road trips and travel will feel much easier, and less stressful, so that we can enjoy our time on the Gulf Coast. We are already checking out accommodations to help make our time extra fabulous!
Want to join me at BDR Safety Harbor, or Orlando? Use code RUNSWITHPUGS to save 10% on any Best Damn Race distance in these cities. I know you’ll love it!
How do you pick a comeback race? Are you going to join me for BDR Safety Harbor
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I love the sound of this race and I’m so excited that you’ll be doing a Half again! What a journey you’ve had from setback to comeback, but here you are my friend!
Well, first of all with a name like that I would expect it to be pretty great! So it’s in Tampa? That would be a feasible racecation for me! I’ll look into it- thanks!
that would be amazing! You should totally check it out! Safety Harbor is pretty close to Clearwater, which is across from Tampa. Should be fairly close to you!
It is fun to have a half on your schedule again! That sounds like it checks all the boxes for you. Hope it is not too hot! I also have my first half in a long time in October. Seems like it’s so far away!
It will be hot, but it doesn’t matter! We are used to it – and maybe we’ll have a nice breeze off the bay.
This does sound like a great race series…I wish they’d come to Iowa, or at least the Midwest. I’m also running a half marathon that weekend, in Des Moines. Good luck with your training!
I think New Orleans is as far as we go for right now. Who knows what the future holds!
Good luck with yours as well!
This sounds like such a fun race, and a great choice for your come back half marathon! I still haven’t decided on any race plans. Still too much up in the air around here!
I mean, I *think* we will be in good shape, but if it goes virtual, then I’m prepared for that, too. It’s nice to have something on the radar.
That sounds like a great (the best damn)race for a comeback half. I don’t have anything planned yet but I’ve been looking.
I see what you did! I hope you find something fabulous!
So exciting. Sounds perfect.
Can’t wait!
I hope it’s great.
Two years, Jenn? Wow, this calls for a special race and it looks like you have found the perfect one!
Staying in a hotel, running with friends – that’s the best kind of weekend.
Enjoy!
Since my last half? At least. It’s going to be a big deal!
Sounds like so much fun! October is a great time for a long distance race. My trail half was postponed again to September. I’m hoping fall is when everything starts to return to normal.
Eh. It’s hot here, and I’m sure this will be tough (it’s usually in winter), but I don’t care. I just want to cross that finish line!
So exciting that you picked your comeback race! I have my comeback race picked – a twice deferred marathon. Both times before were meant to be a comeback, so hopefully it happens!
Dolphins and bay views. Oh you’re a wonderfully evil temptress. I really need to pick a fall half soon. I think having vaccine 2 will help me plan