RED Episode #48: Key West Half Marathon and Henry & Eli’s Side Street Pub
It’s our episode featuring the 21st Annual Key West Half Marathon and Henry and Eli’s Side Street Pub!
RUN
The 21st Annual Key West Half Marathon was on a Sunday with less an ideal weather conditions in Key West. Thunderstorms caused a couple of delays. Originally we were supposed to start at 7. Then we were postponed twice more before crossing the start line at about 9:15 AM. It was raining at the start but shortly after the first mile, it stopped so our need for ponchos was no more.
This course was somewhat the same and a bit different from Southernmost Half Marathon back in October. The Southernmost had a 6-hour time limit because a full marathon was going on at the same time whereas this one had a 4-hour time limit. Both courses were flat for the most part. This one was out and back whereas Southernmost was a loop of Key West. It was interesting to compare the two races.
The course was flat nearly the entire way. Starting with a tour of Duval Street was great because it gave us chance to see all the places along Duval before the hustle and bustle of the night life. Then it was onto the half way point by way of a beautiful ocean view. It was definitely warming up more so than if we had started earlier, but still a flat course. The water stops were well-staffed and about every couple of miles early on in the race. It was an out and back so we had one overpass at the half-way point and then we traced our steps back by the water. The course did not take us directly back on Duval for the finish. It was on a couple of side streets and we were on sidewalks because of the lateness of the finish. We actually got off course for the last half mile. Afterward, I think the heat really got to me. I should have hydrated more on the course and I was starving! We finished in really warm conditions, but we met some really great people along the way, got a great medal with a mermaid on it, and then we were ready to explore and indulge in some food and beverage.
EAT
Henry and Eli’s Side Street Pub was where we headed for much needed food and beverage after those challenging weather conditions. This is a neat place off Duval inspired by the owners’ rescue dogs, Henry and Eli. Their menu has a dog-inspired theme and there is even a menu for man’s best friend because they are welcome to come hang out with you here!
Scott, a veteran, owner, and chef here was kind enough to take us through a demo of how he makes their delicious Seafood Pizza. Garlic and olive oil sauce, shrimp, scallops, crab, and mozzarella cooked to perfection! It reminded me of some of the best shrimp scampi, seared scallop, and crab dishes I have ever had but on a pizza with a thin and crisp crust, just like I love it!
DRINK
We took Scott’s recommendation and had a Blue Point Toasted Lager which really helped punctuate the fla
THAT’S A WRAP!
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