About cycling & running in Palm BaySpace Coast Training Notes
Running: Palm Bay locals run Malabar Scrub Sanctuary daily, and Turkey Creek Sanctuary trails stay in the regular rotation. Locals use the Al Tuttle paved trail, then cut across part of the sanctuary on the way back. The Viera Wetlands gives runners no cars, lots of scenery and nature, though rain can make parts less useful. The Tuesday crew meets at Hell n Blazes brewery and works the 192 bridge. Space Coast Runners has been active since 1978 with over 1,100 members. Anchor races include Turkey Creek 5K Trail Run, Health First Florida Marathon Weekend, Firecracker 5K, and Spooky 5K Run/Walk.
Cycling: Riders get plenty of flat base miles across Melbourne, Palm Bay, Titusville, Mims, Scottsmoor, Merritt Island, and Viera. Spacecoast Freewheelers keeps the road scene steady with B and C rated rides, plus Saturday River Road and longer Sunday B rides. The trail runs 1 miles and connects Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge to Titusville, Mims, and Scottsmoor. Old Dixie Highway carries the trail through residential Mims. Gravel days hit Sweetwater to Fort Drum, Three Forks Marsh, Moccasin Island South, Viera Wetlands, N Wickham Rd, and Power Line Rd/Sawmill Grde. The Max Brewer Bridge gives Titusville the steepest hill and the best view. PineappleMan works as the local anchor for tri and duathlon legs.
Season: Late March through early May is a sweet pocket because the trail-side blueberry signs show up near Ever After Farms. October, November, February, May, June, and July all have race reasons to keep the calendar moving. Summer runners get Firecracker 5K on July 4th, and cyclists keep bottles full when the gravel gets long and exposed. Locals treat sunrise beach runs, bridge repeats, and Z2 road miles as the sane summer play. Winter brings Health First Florida Marathon Weekend and Eye of the Dragon 10K & Tail of the Lizard 2 Mile in February. The group vibe stays easy when the cooler air makes intervals, long runs, and casual rides feel lighter.
