Grand Canyon Half Marathon Race Report – Shannon Porter

Race: Grand Canyon Half Marathon

Runner: Coach Shannon Porter

Race Date: 11/06/2021

Location: Grand Canyon Village

Results: First Place Woman

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

  1. Before you begin the race there is a pancake breakfast feed and it’s included in the cost of the race. Also two free beers afterwards.
  2. This race is on trail only, but surprisingly not that technical. They have ribbons and arrows marking the entire route.
  3. Run Tucson puts on an amazing event, great energy and prize money is offered to the top three individuals with a bonus for breaking the course record!

Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you

The start times can be a little confusing. There is a “trickle start” beginning at 7:30 am for those who plan on not competing for prize money, but the finish line wasn’t set up for those who finished before 9am, which I think is an improvement they could make.

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

The race is a bit of a misnomer, you actually don’t see the Grand Canyon once during the race. But the good news here is you also don’t have to pay the fee to get into the national park. I would suggest visiting after the race if that is on your bucket list. Also I saw two tarantulas out on the course.

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

The trail through the high desert forest was absolutely beautiful, and with it being so well marked I didn’t have to worry about making a wrong turn so I was free to enjoy my surroundings. Also Randy Accetta, the race director, is as nice as it gets and will help you with any questions.

Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner

Start slow, there is quite a bit of elevation so I ran this more like a hard long run effort instead of an all out race. Pacing will help you finish with more energy later on.

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

Know that it is a challenging course, don’t go out and expect a personal best on this one.

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

It is a beautiful course. Mostly you run through the forest near the canyon where you experience the high dessert.

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

Yes, this course is a difficult one. There is elevation gain as well as loose gravely area of trail on some parts. But that is expected with a trail half.

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

The Grand Canyon Half Marathon is very well organized. Run Tucson does a phenomenal job making sure things run smoothly.

Competition – Is there a strong field?

This race is still in its infancy so it is a smaller crowd of elite runners. But I have no doubt it will pick up in the next few years.

Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.

This race as an easy in to get into, again Randy is a great director and Run Tucson sends out information well in advance on logistics for race weekend. There was ample information about hotels, parking, and what to do while visiting the area.

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

Every four miles there is a water station.

Weather and typical race conditions

This year was a typical weather scenario for the canyon, starts out colder but by the start of the elite race it warms up to tank top weather. Not a lot of wind either and the course is mostly shaded.

Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?

I only raced with one gu packet. With the water aid stations I felt that it was enough for the thirteen miles and it felt right for me. If you are planning on being out on the course for additional time I would plan for more fuel during.

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

Not super spectator friendly besides the start and the finish.

How’s the Swag?

Amazing swag. Long sleeve technical shirt, finishers medal that doubles as a coaster. Free pancake breakfast and two beers afterwards.

The Overall Score for The Grand Canyon Half Marathon – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?

Five stars. Overall this is a great race to compete at!

Shannon Porter is a coach with Team RunRun. To learn more about her or to work with Coach Shannon, check out her coaching page.