JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – For many runners, the Gate River Run’s most dreaded stretch is the “Green Monster,” a steep challenge on the course that tests speed and resolve on the Hart Bridge.
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But runners say their favorite stretches comes in one neighborhood: San Marco, where residents line the route with cheers, snacks and creative boosts.
“You got people throwing the little Dunkin’ Donut balls at you in San Marco,” said runner Joe Ruppert.
The historic neighborhood has long been a highlight for many runners at the Gate River Run, offering loud crowds, music and elaborate “hydration stations” that runners say give them a second wind.
“You just can’t beat San Marco,” said another runner Paul Davis. “It’s electric.”
Residents spend days preparing block-party-style setups, complete with music, signs and themed stations meant to entertain and energize the field of runners.
“It’s been one of my most favorite things about living on this street,” said resident Gaby Haddad.
One San Marco house has become an iconic stop with cheers, a DJ-like vibe and, for some years, tequila shots offered to passing runners.
“It puts a little pep in your step,” said resident Pete Behringer, who helped set up the scene.
Neighbors say this year’s setup includes larger quantities of supplies than last year: 90 pounds of bananas, 20 tequila handles and 2,000 shot glasses.
“I feel like sometimes people are sagging, they’re like, ‘Oh man, you know we’ve got a long way to go, and then, boom, here we are: Music, bananas, tequila,” said Behringer. “So many people are thrilled with what we have to offer.”
Some residents like Haddid focus on hydration and powerups boxes that runners can hit above their heads.
“We tried mimosas one year and that was insane, so I switched to waters over here,” said Haddid.
Residents say they always anticipate energetic crowds and love feeling the energy of the Jacksonville community.
“This is like part of our identity, and I think it really matters,” said Behringer.