The ninth annual Daytona 100 offered an ideal venue to set a PR: running along the ocean road between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway to the very end of the barrier island, finishing under the historic and picturesque Ponce Inlet lighthouse. There was also a friendly, laid-back, north Florida vibe and ideal weather under blue skies benefitting both rookies and veterans alike. Runners had the option of running 100 miles, 50 miles or 50k.
Alex Marshall, 100-mile female winner, crossing Matanzas Inlet bridge. Photo: Tuan Nguyen
The 100-milers began their adventure in front of the lifeguard headquarters in Jacksonville Beach, with a backdrop of sand dunes and a crashing surf. The 50-milers and 50k runners began in Wadsworth Park in Flagler Beach. The courses are virtually flat, with one bridge to climb at each distance. For the 50M and 50k folks, the bridge is located right after the start when they cross the Intracoastal Waterway. At the top of the bridge are spectacular views of the Intracoastal and the Atlantic—a beautiful motivation to kick off the race. This point-to-point course has it all: running through laid-back “Old Florida” beach towns and very upscale areas like Ponte Vedra Beach, “get down” eclectic Daytona Beach and quiet “Wilbur-by-the-Sea,” wide open Matanzas Inlet and historic St. Augustine—the oldest city in the US.
Runners in St. Augustine. Photo: Tuan Nguyen
Alex Thomas of Arlington, VA, broke the 50k course record in 4:27:11. Marc Burget won the 100-miler in 15:16:26. Alex Marshall, from England, won the women’s 100-mile race in 16:29:49. The 50-mile male and female winners were Armand Riehl and Myriah Tisch, respectively. Bethany Bradshaw was first female in the 50k event. Also added this year was a four-person, 100-mile team relay.
In addition to aid station staff, runners were supported by teams of race marshals and physicians located strategically along the route. More than 100 directional signs were placed on course. The 40-page 2023 Daytona 100 race guide, available online and in print, included detailed maps and course detail lists for each of the three distances. The guide provides the details to create an accurate race plan and to guide crews and runners every step of the way during the race.
Ponce Inlet Lighthouse. Photo: S. Richards
There were 19 aid stations and water stops supporting uncrewed runners, but those racing with crews ate their share of “real” food, too. The finish line feast accommodated everyone from carnivores to vegans. Over 100 runners took home awards, which are unique at every Daytona 100 race. The 2023 version was an homage to Jimmy Buffett, who unfortunately did not make it to the finish line this year. His book, A Salty Piece of Land, is the story of a lighthouse and its keeper—a perfect fit for our Ponce Inlet Lighthouse finish. Each winner received a copy with a bookplate specifying the category they won. The awards presentation took place across the road from the finish line at Hidden Treasure Rum Bar & Grill, looking out at the water under cover in the open air—the ideal ending to a magnificent weekend.
Results 100 Miles | 50 Miles | 50K