The winter wears away at Canadian runners. Speed work is nearly impossible and long runs are slushy, soaker-filled battles with the elements. That spring goal marathon seems far away in the dead of winter. That's why, like many Canadians, I f lew south this January for the perfect New Year's racing resolution: Marathon Bahamas.

Marathon Bahamas weekend was designed to be visually relaxing while you sweat through your run. There is an oceanfront start at Junkanoo Beach where runners make their way through downtown Nassau, over the western Paradise Island bridge with an immediate return along the eastern bridge. The vast majority of the course provides long expanses of ocean vistas - 42.2k of glowing sun, sandy shores and swaying palm trees. For marathoners, there is no Heartbreak Hill. It features enough variety from the beauty of the island right up until the finish at Arawak Cay - its history, architecture, and plant life - you won't find the fast, f lat and linear course monotonous.

This race is fast enough to make it a worthy Boston qualifier, but it's different from the destination races that lure many fast runners. Marathon Bahamas is on island time, meaning that it's laid back at its core.

That said, the organization for this midsized marathon weekend (though fairly large for being so remote) is top notch. The weekend's four races - the marathon, halfmarathon,relay, and 5k - start on time and are overseen by a professional and knowledgeable army of marshals along with over 700 volunteers. All along the out-and-back route expect to be supported by rhythmic beats from residents who ring cowbells and bang drums.

I completed the half. They don't skimp on the details with this race, such as the quality finisher's medal or well-attended post-race beach party. The entry fee is $80. It has an intimate mood on the start line, with plenty of elbow room once you get running.

All of the in-race logistics are seamless and intuitive to the participant's needs. Good coordination of details is crucial, especially for competitive athletes. The f luid stations are well stocked, as it can be hot once the race gets underway. The Bahamas are known for its hospitality and cheerful locals. This was evident through the on-course signage, which certainly helped during the latter stages of my half-marathon.

Marathon Bahamas officials gained certification by the governing body affiliated with the iaaf because they believe in growing a race that's appealing to both speedster and middle-of-the-pack tourists. The accurately measured course means it is ideal for those running the full 42.2k event so they can score a Boston qualifying time.

Sponsors are excited about the growth of the race. "We intend to make Marathon Bahamas a worldclass event," says Daniel Johnson, the Bahamas's Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture. Originally, the Bahamian company Sunshine Insurance approached the minister with the concept.

Brian Moodie, then president of Sunshine Insurance, says, "We discovered the lifestyle of distance runners worldwide and what that could mean economically for the Bahamas from overseas business. Runners bring their families to stay for two or three nights in a period that is quiet." The marathon has brought in $1 million for the local economy over a three-year period.

Race director Pamela Richardson says they are actively promoting the race to the Americas and Europe. This year was its fifth year; registration was up 17 per cent from2013.

Getting there
Travelling with Air Canada or West Jet will get you to Nassau in the middle of winter. If you want to book your accommodation and flight all in one go, Marathon Travel Packages has offers that can get you 50 per cent off your racing fees. 

Lodging
The Atlantis Paradise Island Resort is the most popular resort to stay at in the area with the world's largest open-air marine habitat, a water park for when you're not running, and over 20 restaurants, bars, and nightclubs for post-race celebrations. If you're looking for something more low key, stay at the Sheraton and take advantage of the white sand beaches. If you're the kind of runner who likes to stay as close as possible to the race start, the Nassau Quality Resort could be your best option.