Yesterday, I did the second race of the weekend, the Bay to Bay 12k in St. Petersburg. Much different course and experience compared to the Dragon.

Bay to Bay was as flat as anywhere you will find in FL. In addition, it was a straight shot from one Bay down to the pier area where it did a couple of twists and turns. The pier itself was an absolutely beautiful sight, jutting out about a half mile in Tampa Bay and overlooking the magnificent water.

Anyone looking for a PR, this is the place to be. Anyone looking for an enjoyable run, an experience, something with a little sparkle, this is not the place to be. About 95% went through obscure, low energy neighborhoods. The sights of Advanced Auto Parts or Burger King next to neglected houses just doesn’t do a whole lot to inspire me.

Unlike a Space Coast or Celebration 10K, the race lacked any personality. Love them or hate them, Disney races have personality. There are themes and the actions, people and objects are consistent with the themes. Bay to Bay was akin to a training run in downtown anywhere. Yes, you get a workout in but with races, I am looking for more then just a mere workout. This I can get anywhere and I don’t have to drive nearly 2 hours, as was the case here. There simply was no color here. It was a bland pastel, faded from sun exposure.

The one clear conclusion from this weekend that I am grateful for is this — unless it is at least a half-marathon or above, stay in your neighborhood. Central FL has a a ton of less-than-half-marathon-distances and a 20 minute drive to run them with a bunch of friends sounds much better.

I definitely appreciate what is in my backyard.