Race: Zonta ABC Run/Walk

Runner: Coach Stef Hamilton

Race Date: 11/07/2026

Location: Higgs Beach, Key West

Results: 19:39 – Second Overall, First Female

3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?

This race was super special to me because I got to experience it with one of my local athletes, Jessica! I have only been working with Jessica for a couple of weeks, but we instantly clicked over our admiration for Jack Daniels, and it feels like I have known her much longer than that!

Jessica has completed this race previously, and during our first session, had asked if I was planning to run it. At the time, I was dealing with a personal injury and did not think I would be able to. Not wanting to miss her in action, I told her I would be on the sidelines cheering her on! That said, come race week, I was feeling healthy and decided to “full send it” and signed up the night before!

And I am so glad I did! This was my first time racing with one of my athletes, and the feeling of lining up on the start line together was one-of-a-kind! The course was a flat out-and-back (which played heavily into my last-minute decision to run!) and we were able to high-five halfway through the race! Knowing we were in it together gave me a sense of comradery I haven’t felt since I was a collegiate athlete.

Cheering Jessica on down the final stretch, watching her cross the finish line, and discussing our experiences following the race is something I will never forget!

Apart from racing with Jessica, this race was meaningful to me for another reason. The Zonta ABC (Awareness for Breast Cancer) Run is a fundraiser, with 100% of proceeds going towards breast cancer awareness and screening in Key West. My mother is a Breast Cancer Survivor, so the initiative is close to my heart. I am proud of our tiny island for coming together for such an amazing cause!

Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?

We have been dealing with “King Tides” (super high tides) on the island and a large portion of the main road was underwater, causing runners to have to cross the street multiple times throughout. #JustIslandThings

Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?

I really enjoyed the confidence boost it gave me! I benched myself for the month of October, as I was going through undiagnosed quad pain. During that time, I kept my cardio level up by biking, but knew my fitness level had significantly dropped. I did not have any goals going into this race, other than completing it pain free.

That said, as soon as I got to the start line, the pre-race jitters and adrenaline kicked in. One minute before the gun went off, a Key West local known for winning the majority of community races stepped up to the line and my goal immediately changed: I wanted to hang with him as long as possible!

I went out fast, disregarding my own advice on the importance of negative splitting, but was able to hang onto the pace much longer than anticipated. I crossed the finish line pain free, much quicker than I anticipated, and GRATEFUL to be back in action!

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

The course ran along the south side of Key West, with beautiful ocean front views. It is a route I train on regularly, and it was mentally easier to race knowing exactly where I was at (and how much I had left!) each step of the way!

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

Not at all! The course is completely flat, with a 1.55 out-and-back loop. Out-and-backs are easier on me mentally, as I envision getting whipped around the turnaround point and flying back to the start/finish line!

Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?

The race was organized by the Key West Southernmost Runner’s Club, which hosts the majority of local road races. The club has an amazing crew of volunteers that are there, not because they have to be, but because they truly love the race environment!

During the national anthem, the microphone unfortunately cut out, but the entire crowd, runners and volunteers alike, jumped in and sang along. It was a beautiful moment to be a part of!

Competition – Is there a strong field?

It was not an overly competitive race, but the runners and walkers that were there all showed up for the right reason!

Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?

There was one water station that runners could hit both on the way out and on the way back.

Weather and typical race conditions

The weather was great… for Key West! When the gun went off at 8am, it was 82 degrees with 72% humidity. Believe it or not, that is refreshing down here!

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

Yes! There were volunteers and fans grouped at several locations throughout the course. The out-and-back nature allowed each group to cheer the runners on twice!

How’s the Swag?

The gear was great, given it was a fundraising event! Each runner received a sling pack and (super comfy!) t-shirt.

The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐