Thousands of women truly earned the title "Iron Girl" Sunday at the Athleta Iron Girl half marathon and 5K event in Clearwater.

After a comfortable, sun-kissed 7 a.m. start, wind and rain plagued the latter miles and finish for many runners in the half marathon.

Heavy winds threatened and eventually tore down the inflatable finish line banner as runners began crossing after the finish of the 5K.

The popular point-to-point half marathon, starts at Coachman Park, winds through Clearwater, crossing over some menacing bridges, the Belleair Causeway and Sand Key bridge.

The race finishes on Clearwater Beach near Pier 60.

Marni Sumbrel from Jacksonville won the half marathon in a time of 1:33:25. The 29-year-old Jacksonville resident kept a 7:08 per mile pace.

Palm Harbor resident, Patricia Brookover won the 5K with a time of 19:44.

1481 runners participated in the half marathon. 2534 runners participated in the 5K.