About the Gulf Coast Grind
The course runs on hard-packed sand along the water at Surfside Beach, which makes for a firm, flat surface underfoot rather than the soft slog you might expect from a beach race. The route follows an out-and-back shape, repeated for longer distances, so you cover the same stretch of coastline multiple times with the water alongside you.
Packet pickup happens the morning of the race at the start and finish area, so there is no separate trip the day before. Aid stations are stocked generously, with Gatorade, Coke, PB&Js, bean burrito rolls, fruit, and assorted snacks. There are no cups at aid stations, so bring a bottle or hydration pack. Drop bags are accepted and shuttled out to the mid-course aid station.
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Distances & Start Times
50K4/10/2027 07:00Free
26.2 Miles4/10/2027 07:30Free
13.1 Miles4/10/2027 08:00Free
10K4/10/2027 08:30Free
5K4/10/2027 08:30Free
Going for a Time?
Set a goal and get a pace band: every mile split on a card sized for your phone lock screen, so race morning needs no math.
Not sure what to aim for? The marathon pace chart lists the pace for every finish time.
Where to Stay
Traveling for this race? The map shows hotels and rentals in and around Surfside Beach — pan or zoom to compare what's nearby.
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