One of Miami’s biggest endurance events of the year, the Life Time Miami Marathon & Half returned on January 25, attracting nearly 20,000 participants from all 50 states and more than 80 countries. Known for its flat, USTAF-certified course and breathtaking views, the marathon has become one of the top international races on the circuit — and this year, several students from Miami Palmetto Senior High joined the fun.
Both marathon and half marathon runners began the race together in front of the Kaseya Center in Downtown Miami, home of the Miami Heat. From there, the route took athletes across the MacArthur Causeway past PortMiami and into Miami Beach, looping up Ocean Drive before returning to Downtown Miami via the scenic Venetian Causeway.
Half marathon participants peeled off at Bayfront Park to finish their 13.1-mile race, as marathoners continued south through Brickell, ran partway up the Rickenbacker Causeway toward Key Biscayne, passed through Coconut Grove and eventually looped back to Bayfront Park for the 26.2-mile finish. Both courses offered stunning subtropical vistas and an unforgettable view of the sun rising over South Beach, providing an experience unmatched by any other race.
This year, MPSH’s Key Club members took an active role in the Life Time Marathon & Half by volunteering in Section J, one of the water stations along the course. Students cheered on the runners, distributed water and motivated participants as they made their way through the challenging mile markers.
“It was just really fun and exciting to help other people. I mean, even though I’m only handing out water, which is a small service, it’s relieving that they were grateful for it. That’s what I really liked about the marathon,” freshman and Key Club member Amanda Morenokhan said.
At the finish line, runners were greeted with a special medal and a post-race celebration. Photos taken along the route and official results were released to the public, and spectators — including MPSH family and friends — tracked participants in real time.
“There were so many emotions going on. You could literally feel it. It was exciting. It was a really exciting experience for me, especially since I have never been to something like this before,” freshman and Key Club member Antonella Vasquez said.
By volunteering, MPSH students not only contributed to the success of the marathon but also experienced firsthand the excitement and energy of one of Miami’s largest endurance events. Many Key Club members, like freshmen Amanda Morenokhan and fAntonella Vasquez, were able to encourage runners, witness their determination and immerse themselves in the marathon atmosphere. This event served as a chance for students to show community spirit while being able to witness a healthy, active event.
