Inaugural Savannah Southern Half Marathon draws nearly 4,500 runners through historic neighborhoods

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Saturday marked a major milestone in Savannah, it was the inaugural Savannah Southern Half Marathon.

The course took nearly 4,500 runners through historic neighborhoods, starting at Forsyth Park and ending at Daffin.

While the event drew participants from far and wide, we have the story of how it offered a local couple a fresh and intimate perspective on their own city.

“I ran down streets that I’d never been on before, and I’m from here. So that was really cool, seeing just different historic areas,” said race participant, Alan Gibbs.

First-time race experience in Savannah

Alan Gibbs and his wife Ava, who moved back to Savannah just a few months ago, were among those taking part in the city’s inaugural Savannah Southern Half Marathon.

“This is my first race ever in the city. It was really cool to get to run the race on the course that we trained on,” said participant, Ava Gibbs.

The half marathon began at Forsyth Park and ended inside Daffin Park.

“It was a lot of fun to run the 13.1 and really cool to get to go through Grayson Stadium. I’ve never actually been before, so it was really exciting to end that way,” said Ava Gibbs.

For the Gibbs, the race was a family affair.

“Both of our parents are here to cheer us on. My family came in from out of town, and his family is from here,” said Ava Gibbs.

The race was about more than setting a personal record, it allowed the couple to experience their home through a fresh perspective.

Historic route showcases city

“It was really cool being able to run through downtown, see all the pretty historic homes, then end up in Ardsley and see more historic homes.

While this was the longest race the two have accomplished, they are already looking towards bigger goals.

“Every time we do a half marathon, I think about wanting to do a full marathon or even like an Ironman or something like that. I definitely think it would be a lot of fun and worthwhile doing,” said Alan Gibbs.

The couple hopes this new city tradition continues for many years.

“I definitely think it’s something that brings a lot of people to Savannah and just showcases the beauty of the city,” said Alan Gibbs.