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The Loch Ness Marathon is one of Scotland's most popular running weekends, Loch Ness draws runners from all over the world every year and many of them come to tackle this scenic race. Stunning scenery, a great course and maybe, just a small chance of glimpsing the famous monster. You're likely to go home not fulfilling the third of these, but the first two will definitely be ticked off. Loch Ness Pretty much everyone who travels will have heard of Loch Ness and its associated with the mythical monster that is rumoured to lurk in its depths. There is plenty of room for it to lurk, at some points the lake is 755 ft deep, with a surface area of 22 square miles, making it the largest by volume in the UK. It contains more water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined! Loch Ness is only 23 miles from Inverness, where the Marathon event village is located. Inverness is known as the capital of the Highlands and even though 63,000 currently live there it's one of Europe's fastest growing cities. Visitors from all over the world are attracted to this beautiful part of the world and the same goes for entrants to the Marathon. Even though it is nearly 600 miles from London it doesn't stop hundreds of international visitors heading north to experience a unique event in a unique place. Before and after the race there are many attractions in the area that need exploring, especially in and around Inverness. One of these is Fort George, the mightiest artillery fortification in Britain, if not Europe. Its garrison buildings, artillery defences and superb collection of arms provide a fascinating insight into 18th century military life. There's Inverness Cathedral where you can see the intricate craftsmanship and detailed carvings in both stone and wood alongside glorious stained-glass windows and also the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery where you can find out more about local life. The City's Castle is also well worth a visit. And then of course there are the nine villages around Loch Ness, as well as Urquhart Castle. Once one of Scotland’s largest castles, Urquhart saw great conflict during its 500 years as a mediaeval fortress, with control of the castle passing back and forth between the Scots and English during the Wars of Independence. The last of the government troops garrisoned here during the Jacobite Risings blew up the castle when they left. Urquhart’s iconic ruins remain, and are a major draw for today's visitors. The village of Drumnadrochit has the "Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition", not to be confused with The Loch Ness Exhibition Centre (formerly Loch Ness 2000). The latter, near the village of Milton, was established in 1980 and has consistently ranked as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Scotland. There are 6 different areas that detail the story of Loch Ness from the ice age through to the present, including of course the story of the monster, but also all other aspects of the Loch. It has just reopened after a major refurbishment. The majestic ruins of Urquhart Castle on the shores of Loch Ness The history of the Loch Ness Marathon The very first Loch Ness Marathon was held in 2002, with Baxters as the title sponsor. Unusually for an event of this type they are still the principal sponsor, having supported the event as it has grown over the years. Since the event was established, entries have grown by a record 267%, with a record 9,500 participants in 2019 with 60 percent of marathon runners coming from outside Scotland and 17 percent from overseas. It's grown into a major running festival with distances for all abilities and aspirations and has recently been taken over by the organisers of the London Maratghon. There is no doubt who is the star of the show at this event! Race organiser London Marathon Events Ltd When is the Loch Ness Marathon The race is held annually in October. Distances Marathon, 10k & Corporate Challenge and 5k. There's also an under 5's run. Is there an expo? The event expo is the biggest running show in Scotland held at the Event Village Bught Park in Inverness. Marathon runners collect their race pack (including timing tag and baggage label) here on the Saturday before the event. There are also plenty of running products to purchase and free sampling, product trials, demos, prize draws etc. There are guest speakers, and the opportunity to chat with other runners from around the world or just chill out with some traditional Scottish music in the Runners’ Café. How many runners? Around 9,000 across all events with 4,000 in the marathon. The course All marathon runners are transported by bus to the marathon start from Inverness Ice Centre on Bught Drive, Inverness, a 10-minute walk from the Event Village, where race bibs were collected. Buses leave from 7.00 am to 7.30m for the one hour drive to the start. There are other pick up points both north and south of the Loch. There is no vehicle access for runners to be dropped off at the marathon start. The Marathon starts at 10 am near Fort Augustus and is a point to point course, heading north along Loch Ness, before finishing in Inverness. Just before mile 2 it's through Easter Drummond and shortly afterwards is Whitebridge, the first of the small villages that dot the course. With less than 100 residents most of those that live here are game wardens on local estates or work within the tourism industry. At this point and until mile 5 the course winds through remote rural roads, not joining the shore of the Loch until mile 7. A mile before that it heads through Foyers, past the Fall of Foyers to the left. It's a spectacular waterfall with a 140 ft drop into a gorge that winds its way through tall trees until it eventually meets Loch Ness. There's a pathway winding through stunning woodland and then down steep steps to the first of two viewpoints. At the upper viewpoint the surrounding rocks open up to give you a spectacular full view of the falls where you can capture some fantastic photos of the falls all year round. A visit for another day! Foyers is the largest settlement on this side of the Loch and is a village of under 300, situated where the River Foyers flows into the loch. Just past mile 7 is the Foyers Power Station and just before mile 8 is Boleskine house This Scottish manor house was once owned by author Aleister Crowley and later by Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin. After suffering fire damage in 2015, the house is now being restored. Continuing north, at mile 9, is Inverfarigaig Pier, built in the early nineteenth century by Thomas Telford. There are spectacular views along the banks of Loch Ness. Runners are now as close to the Loch as it's possible to get and there are many stunning viewpoints along this stretch of the route, with just before miles 10 and 13 being two of the best. Is there any better half way point of a marathon than this? Across the loch is Urquhart Castle and if it's a clear day there are few better views. At mile 16 avoid the Alpacas and then at mile 17 it's through the village of Dores, with amazing vistas of both Dores Beach and Loch Ness Beach. Dores is a tiny village with a church, village hall, welcoming country pub and the stunning beach. It also has bags of history, dating back to the 1st century. Its name comes from the Gaelic meaning “dark woods”. The course is now at the northern tip of the Loch and runners head inland slightly and finally at mile 21 the Loch part of the run is done. It's then along the small country road, the B862, through the southern suburbs of Inverness, like Lochardil and Holm, at the 24 mile mark. Near mile 25 is the turn for home, just past at Inverness Castle, over the road bridge and then the run to the finish along the banks of the River Ness in Bught Park. It will all be happening here, with a Pipe Band in full flow and plenty of local delicacies. There are 7 water stations along the marathon course, with water provided in 330ml recyclable plastic bottles. There are 4 gel stations along the marathon route providing High5 Energy Gels. What's unique Monster spotting on the banks of the biggest lake in Britain! Do charities benefit? There is a charity programme, with a number of local and national charities involved. Some of these charities have guaranteed entries available and they only expect around £400 an entry to be raised. This is very different from many of the big city center events where it's often three or four times that amount. Our verdict Great organisation and stunning scenery are both essential for a great marathon experience and you get them in big quantities here. If you need big crowds to get you motivated you won't find them here, but you will find one of the most scenic marathons anywhere. The expo works well and the whole race weekend festival approach is very well organised. It can be cold, as you'd expect in the north of Scotland in October, but conditions are often ideal for marathon running. Being too hot is never a good thing on a marathon course. How to register Online via the race website. There is also information about tour operator entries and the guaranteed entries from the charities. General entries normally close in July. Race website https://lochnessmarathon.com/

From where the world of marathon running all started, the Athens Marathon is one of the ‘must run’ marathons. Starting from the town of Marathon to the history rich Panathenaic Stadium, the venue of the Olympics, the Athens Marathon is one you must not miss. When you're done you can make your way to one of the Greek islands and make it a life changing trip. Athens Athens, the capital of Greece, is one of the oldest cities in the world. It has a population of over three million and a history dating back over 3400 years. It was named after the Greek goddess of wisdom and inspiration, Athena, and is known as the cradle of Western civilisation. It's the birthplace of philosophy, democracy and drama, is an open-air museum of world-class cultural heritage attractions and is a city of paradoxes and great contrasts, It's a cosmopolitan hub with gastronomic delights, electrifying nightlife, creative vibes and a booming art scene. Its most famous landmark is the iconic Acropolis, rising above the city and attracting millions each year, but there's also the Parthenon, the National Archaeological Museum, Mount Lycabettus and much more. 25m miles from Athens is the start town of Marathon and the start point for the Marathon itself. Just outside of Marathon is Schinias Beach, a long and sandy beach with beach bars and pine groves. There's also the Attica Zoological Park, a 32-acre zoo that's home to more than 2,000 animals, 30 types of reptiles, 238 species of birds, and more. Lake Marathon, a man-made reservoir, was formed for the Marathon Dam. The dam is the only marble-faced one in the world. No runner will want to miss the Marathon Run Museum, a permanent exhibition of the “Olympic Marathon” from 1896 to the present. More than 4000 exhibits record the history of the Marathon race. The museum features medals, athletic and personal items of Harilaos Vasilakos, the first winner of the Marathon in 1896, cups, relics, and much more. History The story of the marathon is the most well known of all sports. It was a true triumph accomplished by a news-bearing foot soldier from ancient Athens, who announced - with his last words - the victory of the Greeks against the Persians during the Marathon Battle in 490 BC. The 42,195m Marathon Race became one of the most competitive events during the revival of the Olympic Games in 1896. A Greek athlete named Spyros Louis, running what has ever since been referred to as the Original Marathon Course from the ancient city of Marathon to the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, won the gold medal of the first modern Olympic Games and became a legend of Greek and International Athletics. There is no marathon with a history like this one! The Athens Classic Marathon began in 1972 as a joint venture between the Greek tourist board and the athletics association. The race came under the auspices of SEGAS, the Hellenic Athletics Federation in 1983 when it became known as the Athens Peace Marathon for that year. The 2010 edition of the event was combined with the celebration of the 2500th anniversary of the Battle of Marathon. As the 2500 anniversary was actually in 2011, this year was also celebrated as the anniversary run. In 2014 it was announced that the Athens Classic Marathon will now be known as the “Athens Marathon. The Authentic”. According to the federation, the new name highlights, in the most accurate and precise way, the unique world “position” of Greece’s national heritage, of the Authentic Marathon; a Marathon that is not only a “classic” but the only one on the planet that starts from Marathonas and finishes in Athens. Race Organiser The event is organised by SEGAS, the Hellenic Athletics Federation, When? The race is held annually in November Distances Marathon, 10km, 5km and 1.2km kids run. Is there an Expo? All runners need to collect their bib numbers and race kits from the Runners' Center, which is hosted in the Faliro Indoor Hall & Exhibition Centre of Athens, at the Olympic Faliro Coastal Zone, from Wednesday until Saturday before the 10km event on Saturday evening. How many runners? Marathon - 20,000. 10km - 12,000 5km - 20.000 Kid's run - 8,500 Course The Marathon Race starts at 9.00am in the historic town of Marathon, running southwest for the first 19km. The first 4 kilometers are downhill along Marathonos Avenue and then it's left to the home of the Marathon Tomb (War Memorial). There's also an Archaeological Museum of Marathon here, built in 1975 and located near the memorial tomb. The museum consists of five halls, each with its own theme. Collections include: pottery from the early Cycladic, Geometric, and Classical period, statues, and other finds from excavations. The start of the Marathon...at Marathon The course is flat from 6km to 10km at Nea Makri, with some undulations from there to 17km when there's a hill to Rafina Junction up to 20km. This is the toughest part of the course. Through Pikermi district there are more hills for the next 5km as runners head northwest towards Athens. The hills continue through Pallini, a suburban town in the Greater Athens Area. By 31km the hills are done and it's much easier in the last section. There's a steep descent leading to the Agia Paraskevi Square and the crowds really pick up. Then it's Mesogeion Avenue, going through the districts of Chalandri and Cholargos, with flat and downhill parts of the course up to the finish. At the last part of the Marathon Course and having turned on the Herodou Attikou Street, runners can see the Panathenaic Stadium, passing by the Presidential Residency and the National Gardens The runners enter the Panathenaic Stadium to the finish and to an incredible atmosphere. A stadium was built here on the site of a simple racecourse by an Athenian statesman in c. 330 BC, but after the rise of Christianity in the 4th century it was largely abandoned. The stadium was excavated in 1869 and after being refurbished, it hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and as an Olympic venue in 2004. Without doubt this is the most iconic finish to any marathon event anywhere in the world. You have to be here! There are plenty of aid stations, with water every 2.5km and there are energy bars and drinks. The volunteers are excellent. The finish at the packed Panathenaic Stadium What's unique? What isn't? It doesn't get much more unique than this one. Do charities benefit? There is no official charity programme but the organisers do support the Special Olympics charity. Running for charity isn't big in this part of the world but plenty of UK and US runners will be raising funds for their preferred charities. Our verdict If you're looking for a truly iconic marathon, this is the one. For many runners it's gone under the radar up to now, but with more than 60,000 runners across all distances it's well and truly up there as an event with real global appeal. It's not the easiest and the crowds aren't the biggest but the start and finish areas are out of this world. How to register Online via the website. It's a first come first served registration process, with no ballot. The 5km sells out early and all distances are likely to be sold a few weeks before event day. Specialist running tour operators do have entries available. Race website https://www.athensauthenticmarathon.gr/en

Running through all four areas of Belfast; North, South, East and West, the Belfast Marathon starts at Stormont Estate and finishes in the City's Ormeau Park. There's also a team relay and walk that means every opportunity to get involved and leads to even bigger crowds. Held in May every year there is also a half marathon in September. In 2022 the Belfast Marathon celebrated its 40 year anniversary! Belfast Belfast is the capital and largest city of Northern Ireland and is Ireland's second biggest city, with a population of 700,000. In 1921, Belfast became the seat of government for Northern Ireland following the partition of the Country. This was a challenging time for Belfast, when significance violence occurred, repeated in 1969 to 1998 in a period known as 'the Troubles'. Industry has always been a key part of the city's growth with shipbuilding especially important. It is still a port with commercial and industrial docks, including the Harland & Wolff shipyard, where the Titanic and Canberra were built. There is so much to see in Belfast and one of the most impressive is the Titanic Museum, opened in 2012, built on the slipways where the ship itself was constructed over 100 years ago. There are nine galleries on six floors and many interactive exhibitions, an underwater cinema and gantry rides. Crowned the World's Leading Tourist Attraction in 2016 it tells the whole story, from the very beginning to the tragic end. The Ulster Museum is another that you must visit. Recently refurbished it includes the only dinosaur bones ever found on the island of Ireland and the famed Egyptian mummy, Takabuti. The Botanical Gardens next door are spectacular. For a real taste of Belfast life check out renovated St George's Market. It's not just about food but food is what many come here for! Not ideal for runners in race week is the Ulster fry, which will fill you for the day; definitely one for after the event. The choice here is endless. Opened in 1906 the Renaissance style City Hall is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows telling the story of Celtic myths and legends, such as the Cattle Raid of Cooley, as well as commemorating victims of the Great Famine and those who fought in the First and Second World Wars. There are many memorials in the grounds, including the Titanic Memorial Garden, where plaques are inscribed with the names of all 1,512 people who lost their lives. Runners head past here on the marathon course. The City is well known for its wall art, much of it telling the story of the Troubles. There are some great tours with expert guides that can detail what happened. The Black Cab tours are amongst the most popular. is a sight to behold. The Crumlin Road Gaol is also a site not to be missed. Closed in 1996 after 150 years, it claims to be one of the most haunted sites in Belfast. Belfast's City Hall History of the Belfast Marathon The first Belfast City Marathon was in 1982 with 3,021 taking part in a marathon only event, with the team relay added seven years later. In 1997 the 8 Mile Walk and Fun Run events were introduced making the event the largest mass sport participatory event in Northern Ireland. The Half Marathon followed in 2013 (held in September). In 2023 a Women's 10km event was launched and the Belfast City Marathon obtained World Athletics Road Race Label status. Race Organiser Belfast City Marathon Ltd When? The race is held annually in May Distances Marathon, Team Relay and 8 mile walk Is there an Expo? The Expo & Pack Collection takes place at the Titanic Exhibition Centre on Friday and Saturday. All participants must attend to collect their race number, t-shirt and bag. How many runners? 22.000 across all events The course The Marathon starts at 9am and all runners need to complete the race in less than six hours. It's a relatively small field so there are no challenges with overcrowding aside from the team relay change over points where it can feel a little bit crowded, but nothing major. Not a bad place to start! It starts at Stormont Estate, in the east of Belfast. Stormont is a public park with beautiful gardens, walking and fitness trails and children’s play park. Recognised as one of Northern Ireland’s best green spaces it's also home to the Northern Ireland Government and a great place to start an event of this type. From Stormont runners head west to Ormeau Park, firstly heading down the Upper Newtownards Road through Ballyhackamore. It's then left down Beersbridge Road, through the suburb of Castlereagh and north up Woodstock Road before turning into Ormeau Park for the first time just before mile 7 and a few metres from the finish line! It's then out of Ormeau Park, over a bridge across the River Lagan and north up Ormeau Road. The River Lagan runs 53.5 miles from the Slieve Croob mountain in County Down to Belfast where it enters Belfast Lough, an inlet of the Irish Sea. The Lagan forms much of the border between County Antrim and County Down in the east of Ulster. At this point the Ulster Museum and Botanical gardens is just across to the left. Runners then head into the city centre, where they will pass Belfast City Hall at the 9-mile mark before turning left onto Donegal Road and towards the south of the city. Donegal Road then leads onto Boucher Road, and at mile 11 passing the unique Rise Sculpture, also known as 'the Balls of the Falls'. Installed in 2011 it represents a new sun rising to celebrate a new chapter in the history of Belfast. Runners then head south down Donegal Road and Lisburn Road before making a right turn and continuing on Andersonstown Road and Falls Road until the 16 mile marker and then on to the Shankill Road area. The Falls and Shankill Road areas were major flashpoints during the Troubles and there are many visual reminders of the turmoil from those times. Nearby is the Crumlin Road Gaol. Past the City Hall at mile 9 At the 19.5 miles it's a turn and the start of the run south, passing the Waterworks, home to many birds and wildfowl, at mile 20 and just before mile 22 it's the Big Fish! It's a printed ceramic mosaic sculpture by John Kindness, 10 metres long constructed in 1999 in Donegall Quay. The outer skin is a cladding of ceramic tiles decorated with texts and images relating to the history of Belfast. It was commissioned to celebrate the regeneration of the River Lagan and it's a great landmark at a time when you really need it. From here it's then left down the Towpath and along the River Lagan to the 24 mile marker and to Ormeau Park. At the end of the Park, it's then left and on towards the finish line, where the celebrations can start. There are nine water stations, with energy drinks at some, 14 first aid stations and eight toilet stops along the course. What's unique? Belfast is so closely connected with the Titanic and this gives the event something special. Do charities benefit? There is a regular preferred charity selected for a period of one to three years. As the event doesn't sell out there is no demand for charity bibs. Runners can of course raise money for their preferred charity using their own bib and this is estimated to generate £1m a year. Our verdict There is so much to see and do in Belfast and this course takes in some of the highlights. Although it comes just at the end of the Spring marathon season in Europe and misses out to other events as a result it is definitely one to consider if you're looking for something different. Crowd support can be a bit sporadic but in the city there is plenty of support. Definitely one to consider. How to register Online via the website. Entries in the Marathon don't currently sell out, but they do in the team relay. Race website https://belfastcitymarathon.com/

One of the world's most talked about marathons, the New York City Marathon is one that you have to do at some point in your running career. Getting in through the lottery can be a challenge, but there are also tour operator and charity entries. Once you're in you need to have a read on our tips for a great New York City Marathon experience! New York City New York is one of those destinations that is truly unmissable. New York City, with a population of nine million locals, comprises five boroughs and you'll run through every one of them during this marathon. At its heart is Manhattan, a densely populated borough that’s among the world’s major commercial, financial and cultural centres. Its iconic sites include skyscrapers such as the Empire State Building and sprawling Central Park. Broadway theater, a must while you're here is in Times Square, another magnet for the city's three million annual international visitors. The Boroughs of New York City are the five major governmental districts that compose New York City. They are the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens and Staten Island. The race starts on Staten Island and weaves through them all before finishing in the world's most famous park, Central Park in Manhattan. One of the biggest challenges for runners is not to walk too much in race walk. It's an easy city to walk around and its attractions are relatively close to each other. Thankfully taxis don't break the bank. New York is now a very expensive City so once you get your spot sorted you need to book hotels as soon as you can and you might be able to lock in a cheaper price. Post Covid it has gone from an averagely priced destination to one of the most expensive in the world. Runners will now be forced out of the central areas into the suburbs due to costs, but this is where you need to take into account the differences between this event and others. It starts extremely early! Not the race itself, but the process of getting to the start, which is a long way from the finish. It's all about getting to this Bridge. The history of the New York Marathon The very first event was held in September 1970, with 127 runners competing and 100 people watching. Initially held in Central Park, in 1976 it went through all five boroughs for the first time and from then on that became its route. In 1986 it was moved to November and the date hasn't moved since. It was one of the founding members of the World Marathon Majors in 2006. It's now the biggest marathon in the world with over 53,000 finishers in 2019 and more than two million lining the streets each year. Race Organiser New York Road Runners. New York Road Runners (NYRR) is a non-profit running organisation based in New York City whose mission is to help and inspire people through running. It was founded in 1958 by Ted Corbitt with 47 members and has since grown to a membership of more than 60,000. When? The race is held annually on the first Sunday of November. Distances Marathon only Is there an Expo? The Expo, which is open for three days before the event is on a par with the other Majors. It's where you need to go pre-race to collect your number and other race essentials. This race has a much higher percentage of overseas runners than any other equivalent, especially when compared to the likes of London, so you'll bump into fellow competitors from Italy, Denmark and Italy, amongst others, within a few minutes of getting to the Javits Convention Center. The overseas runners bring the event into focus during race week. They are everywhere in Manhattan; walking the streets, taking open-top bus tours and crowding into restaurants. As a visitor to NYC you definitely know it's race week. Don't be tempted to try and see everything NYC has to offer in the days before the race. Don't walk too far, even though everywhere seems so close on paper. How many runners? 50,000 The course The Verrazano-Narrows Bridge on Staten Island is where the race starts and it shuts 3 hours before the race starts so you know what that means. It means two things that most runners aren't prepared for; an extremely early start and an incredibly long wait before you run. So, be prepared. The New York Road Runners, who organise the race, put on buses to the start, and they start very early, but you have to book your bus, so make sure you're there on time for yours and make sure you have an early night! You stay in brooklyn or south Manhattan and get the ferry to Staten Island. It will still be busy. but the view is better, of the Statue of Liberty! Once you're there be ready for what could be in excess of 4 hours of waiting around. Take a book and take some cardboard to sit on. Make sure you have plenty of warm clothing as it could be cold and damp. Don't be tempted to eat any of the snacks you'll see. Doughnuts can be available and when did you last have one of them before a long run? By the time you start running it feels like you've been up all day, so be prepared. Once you do get on the Bridge, ready to start, be warned that if you're on the lower deck of the two you could get covered in something as runners on the upper deck have their final toilet stop. Yes, it does happen! Go to the side if possible. It's a very memorable start for lots of reasons The course itself is unique in many ways. It runs through all five suburbs and they are all very different. Most city centre marathons run through areas that are all pretty similar, but not this one. Be prepared for an attack on the senses, in a good way. From Staten Island runners head north through Brooklyn and Queens. It's then west across the Queensboro Bridge into Manhattan, up north into the Bronx and back to Manhattan to finish in Central Park. These are all very different experiences and it's a cultural tour of the City like no other. Soak up the varying architecture and crowd support as you head from one suburb to another. You won't be on your own in this race This marathon also differs from its peers when it comes to gradients. It is most definitely not flat. You only have to look at the times of elite athletes at top marathons over the past 20 years and this race does not feature. The main reason is because of the bridges. You need to treat each bridge as a challenge in its own right. Some are a lot stepper than they first appear. Make sure you include hill training in your preparation and you'll be fine. There are five of them, so be ready! You'll also see very few running in costumes, unlike events like London. This is from the organisers 'Costumes that cover the face and any bulky outfits that extend beyond the perimeter of the body (Form-fitting outfits are allowed.)' are not allowed through security. And then there is the finish at Central Park. The finish is imminent The finish is very different than it used to be. Access is severely restricted and tickets are required for certain areas. So if you have friends and family who are planning to watch you finish make sure they review the exact details for the year you are planning to run. Once you finish you'll need to demonstrate the same patience you showed at the start. Runners leave Central Park at West 77th Street. Once on Central Park West, you may exit the runners-only area at West 76th Street, West 74th Street, or West 69th Street, or continue south to Family Reunion. If you have pre-checked a bag, you'll find this on Central Park West between West 69th Street and West 72nd Street. This is an extremely, extremely busy place and you won't be able to skip any lines to speed up the process. You'll get your medal first and then lots of sponsor goodies, but there are thousands of people and it all takes time. Even once you're out of the Park, it doesn't get quieter. It's best to suggest meeting your friends and family back in the centre of Manhattan if you can. They could be waiting around Central Park West for a very long time and there isn't much to do there. What's unique? There is no event that brings together all five boroughs like this one. Moving from one to another as the course progresses and experiencing the unique sights and sounds of each borough is very different from any other race. Do charities benefit? There is a very extensive charity programme, with charities applying to the organisers for the right to buy spots which they then allocate to runners who agree to raise a minimum of $3500 and in some cases much more than that. There are more charities applying for spots than there are spots available and generally most of these spots will sell out. Our verdict This event is an amazing experience but you need to be prepared and to prepare those supporting you. It's logistically challenging and it is a very long day for you and your supporters. You will have one of the best days of your life. You need to make sure they do as well. How to register Getting a spot here is very difficult. The general ballot opens in February and two weeks after, with notifications taking place in March. NYRR members who, in 2022, ran nine qualifying NYRR races and volunteered at one qualifying event, are eligible to claim guaranteed non-complimentary entry in that initial two weeks window. There are charity spots (which sell out), good for age and many more categories. Overseas tour operators also have spots. Race website https://www.nyrr.org/tcsnycmarathon

One of the biggest challenges when you're in the city for the Dublin Marathon is keeping out of the bars in the days leading up to the event! This is a city that loves its nightlife and there is plenty of it, including Guinness at every turn. It's a marathon that's had plenty of course changes over the years due to the ongoing development in the city, but it's settled now and it's one that you have to do. Dublin Dublin is Ireland's capital city and its most historically significant, having been the second city of the British Empire until Ireland's independence in 1922, it has a population of just under 6 million. It has plenty to see and because it's a small city it's relatively easy to get around most of them in a few days of hard sightseeing. Probably the most famous is the Temple Bar district. In 1707 a customs house, where all the government paperwork for import and export were processed, settled at Temple Bar and with it came warehouses, taverns and brothels, but when the customs house moved the area fell into an immediate decline. Today, the area is booming and it's the first port of call for tens of thousands of visitors annually. you’ll find Temple Bar in Dublin thriving. There are street fairs and shops to browse through and at night the Guiness flows in the pubs that line the cobbled streets. Try to stay away until after the race! Speaking of Guinness, the most visited attraction in the whole of Ireland is here in Dublin, the Guinness Storehouse, opened in December 2000, Guinness Storehouse has become the most visited attraction in Ireland. More than 20 million visitors have taken the self-guided tour that details the history of the brewery and the brewing process spread out over 7 floors. At the end of the tour, at the top-floor Gravity Bar there are panoramic views across the Dublin cityscape with a complimentary well-earned pint. Trinity College, Ireland's oldest university, is another on most visitor's target lists. As well as its historical and architectural significance, it is also the home of the 9th century Book of Kells, a mediaeval manuscript of huge significance. It's a handwritten copy of the four gospels of the New Testament and filled with ornate Latin text and intricate illustrations. It can be viewed in the Long Room, where you can also view the Brian Boru Harp, Ireland's oldest surviving harp, and a rare original copy of the Proclamation, a seminal text in Irish history. Dublin Castle and Christ Church Cathedral are two other landmarks that are well worth a visit. The Cathedral contains the tomb of mediaeval warlord Strongbow, the leader of the Anglo-Norman invasion of Ireland, and also the heart of Dublin's patron saint, Saint Laurence O'Toole. Amongst other manuscripts and artefacts is a 14th century copy of the Magna Carta Hiberniae (a book of law dating back to 1216). Perhaps the crypt's most popular exhibit is the mummified remains of a cat and a rat. Known locally as 'Tom & Jerry', the cat is believed to have chased the rat into a pipe of the church organ, where they both eventually became stuck. Histroy of the Dublin Marathon The first Dublin Marathon was held in 1980, with 1420 finishers, increasing to 8,700 by 1988. Numbers then plateaued until 2007 when they hit 11,000. With the move from Bank Holiday to Sunday numbers have increased significantly, with a lottery now needed to allocate the 22,500 spots. Heading through Phoenix Park Race organiser Marathon Events Management DAC When is it? The race is held annually in October Distances Marathon only Is there an expo? There is a two expo at the Royal Dublin Society where all runners must pick up their race bibs. There are also a number of vendors selling running and fitness gear. How many runners 22,500 The course It's a single lap course, starting at Fitzwilliam Street Upper and finishes at nearby Merrion Square. There are four wave starts, each with a different colour and a different entry point, the first of them going off at 8.45 am and the last of them an hour later. Here we go! For the first two miles the course passes through many of Dublin’s famous 18th century Georgian streets, before crossing the River Liffey and heading into Phoenix Park, just past mile 3. At 1,752 acres, the Phoenix Park is twice as big as New York’s Central Park and it's Europe's largest urban park. It was originally the Royal Hunting Park in the 17th century, when it became home to a large herd of fallow deer. It's also home to the fourth oldest zoo in the world that runners pass just before the 4 mile marker. Established in 1830 and covering over 69 acres, it has more than 400 animals split into distinct habitats, including the Orangutan Forest, the Kaziranga Forest Trail, Sea Lion Cove, African Savanna and the House of Reptiles. From here it's northwest through the Park to just past mile 6 where runners exit and then back into the Park at mile 8, before leaving again before mile 10 at Chapelizod Gate. It's back over the river at mile 10 and at half way it's over the Grand Canal at Dolphins Barn Bridge. The Grand Canal was completed at the turn of the 19th century to connect Dublin to the River Shannon. Much of it has now been restored and there are some great walks along its banks. From here the course meanders through some of Dublin's southern suburbs, to Bushy Park at mile 17. It's then west to the University College Dublin, which dominates the course for two miles. It has over 33,000 students and is the largest in the country. At mile 23 the route turns north for the final three miles to the finish. Past Elm Park Golf course at mile 24 and then at mile 25 the start of what's known as the Purple Mile, along Northumberland Avenue to cross the Grand Canal again, to the finish at Merrion Square North. There are lots of aid stations, with water and energy drinks and gels at two of them. Crowds are excellent in the city, but as you'd expect it's quieter in the Park and in the middle of the course. The last mile is amazing. There are some bands along the course to help keep runners motivated. What's unique? This is the only running event that shuts down the city's streets making it a great way to see Dublin from a different angle. Do charities benefit? There is a recently established charity programme that is aiming to grow the amount raised by runners each year. At the moment the amounts raised for charity are relatively low but expect this to improve as the event becomes more and more popular and entries become more sought after. The charity spots will then become more in demand. Our verdict It's a tough race to get a spot in, but it's worth the effort. Everyone here is super friendly and for a small events team they put on a great show. It doesn't have the massive crowds of a big event like London or New York but it's as well organised and the course never feels overcrowded. Definitely one to consider. How to register Online via the website.This event is oversubscribed and there is a ballot/lottery in place. There are tour operator bibs available and a number of charities have entries. These are mainly Irish charities but there are also some in the US and the UK. Fundraising targets are not high so this could be a good option if you've missed the ballot. Race website https://irishlifedublinmarathon.ie/

One of the most sought after half marathons anywhere in the world, the New York City Half Marathon is another for the bucket list. It starts in Brooklyn and finishes in Central Park, through the heart of New York City and famous landmarks such as Central Park, Times Square, and Grand Central Station. It doesn't get much better than that. It's tough to get a spot but there are ways. New York City The NYC Half starts in Brooklyn, one of the City's coolest places to visit. There are some intriguing neighbourhoods, incredible views of Manhattan and some of the best food in the country. With nearly three million residents, it would be the third most populous city in the US if it was an independent city, as opposed to being part of NYC. As well as Prospect Park, where the race starts, Brooklyn Bridge Park is an essential place to visit. Covering more than 1.3 miles of Brooklyn’s waterfront, from the Columbia Heights waterfront district to the Manhattan Bridge in DUMBO, it offers breathtaking views of Lower Manhattan’s panoramic skyline and the New York Harbor. It has a continuous promenade of six diverse piers, with an eclectic mix of cafes, restaurants and specialist stores. DUMBO is the area known as Dumbo, an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, and one of Brooklyn's most visited neighborhoods. It has cobblestone streets, dramatic architecture, great dining and those unforgettable views across the river. In years gone by it was a busy ferry terminal, full of industrial and warehouse buildings and there are still remnants of a railroad track that ran through the neighborhood in the early 1900s. Most visitors to Brooklyn will head to Williamsburg, which over the last 25 years has undergone a remarkable transformation, especially in the north. Referred to by some as Little Berlin, it is known for its music, nightlife and arts scene and the changes to its architectural landscape. New high rises dominate its skyline and buildings that looked doomed to history have been renovated and now house apartments, boutique stores and restaurants. Don't miss Domino Park. a five-acre park oasis on the Williamsburg waterfront that opened in 2018 on the ruins of the old Domino Sugar Refinery. It was one of the largest refineries in the world and provided 98% of the sugar consumed in the United States. The Park has a lawn area, with seating and sun loungers and further south, there are water jets to cool off during the summer, beach volleyball courts, and a dog park. History of the New York Half Marathon The first NYC Half was held in 2006. Initially it was held in the summer, but in 2010 was moved to March. That year there were 11,604 finishers, a number that has grown steadily, rising to nearly 25,000 in 2023. As well as having a mass field it also has an elite runner field, with many national and world record holders taking part, such as Haile Gebrselassie, Meb Keflezighi and Deena Kastor. The start is in historic Brooklyn Race Organiser New York Road Runners When is the New York City Half? The race is held annually in March Distances Half Marathon Is there an Expo? There is a NYC Half Marathon Expo Experience on Friday and Saturday, where all runners need to collect their race packets. This was at Center 415, located at 415 5th Avenue (Between 37th & 38th Streets) in 2023. It's obviously not the scale of the Marathon expo but it still has merchandise for sale and talks on how to get the best from race day. How many runners? 27,000 The course As you'd expect this is a wave start event, with five waves, beginning from 7.20, with the last starting at 9.20. Many runners will have finished their event before others have started. The first five miles of the route are in Brooklyn and the rest in Manhattan. It goes from one great Park to another. It all starts in Brooklyn's Prospect Park, on Flatbush Avenue. Prospect Park was designed and constructed over a thirty-year period (1865-1895) by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, the masterminds behind Central Park Although it's only 25% of the area of its northern cousin its 526 acres in size it has the first urban-area Audubon Center in the US, a zoo, an ice rink, a band shell, a carousel, and dozens of athletic and recreational facilities. The perfect place to start a major half marathon. Most of the first three miles are within the Park, so runners get a great opportunity to find out what makes it so special. For the next two miles the course heads north west and along Grand Army Plaza and Flatbush Avenue towards Manhattan. Flatbush Avenue is a major part of transport links in Brooklyn and one of its oldest roads. The neighbourhood is one of the cool places to live in the Borough and one of the most expensive. Just before the 5 mile mark is one of the highlights of the course; the run over Manhattan Bridge! Running through Times Square is a rare opportunity! The Bridge, which first opened to traffic in 1909, is 6,855 ft (2,089 m) in total and was the third bridge built from Brooklyn to Manhattan, joining the Brooklyn Bridge and the Williamsburg Bridge. Runners get a great view of downtown Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge, with the One World Observatory dominating the skyline. It's off the Bridge onto Canal Street in the Chinatown section of Manhattan, through the Lower East Side from mile 6 to 7, passing halfway, before heading north on the FDR Drive at mile 7, where there are spectacular views of the Brooklyn and Queens skylines. From mile 8 to 9 runners head north on FDR Drive, with the East River on the right and then on to East 42nd Street at the United Nation headquarters, for the run through central Manhattan. There is so much to see here, the Chrysler Building, Grand Central Terminal, Bryant Park and much, much more. It's past the 10 mile marker and then onto 7th Avenue where runners turn right and head north and then best of all to Times Square. Times Square, probably the area most first timers to New York City head visit, is formed by the intersection of Seventh Avenue, 42nd Street, and Broadway. It's the centre of the Theatre District, and home to a fascinating collection of characters, who make their living from the millions of tourists who pass through here annually. Runners continue north on 7th Avenue, passing thousands of children taking part in the Times Square Youth Run. It's then into Central Park at mile 12, running north on East Drive. At 72nd Street it's left, with the last turn being another left, on to West Drive for the spectacular finish between West 67th and 68th Streets. The moment you've been waiting for! There are aid stations every two miles, with plenty of water and Gatorade. The crowds, especially In Manhattan, are excellent, with plenty of support offered. What's unique? The run through Times Square. It's only closed twice a year and this is one of those times. Do charities benefit? There is a very extensive charity programme, with charities applying to the organisers for the right to buy spots which they then allocate to runners who agree to raise a minimum of $1000 and in some cases more than that. There are more charities applying for spots than there are spots available and generally most of these spots will sell out. Our verdict This is one of the world's must do running events. If you are thinking of fundraising for charity at some point then maybe save it for here and guarantee yourself a spot nice and early. The course runs more central through Manhattan than the marathon route and this gives even more opportunities to take in world famous landmarks on the way. The crowd support is superb and if you'll never be left needing a lift towards the end! The weather is likely to be cold so make sure you have plenty of layers on at the start and discard as you go. How to register It's a very tough event to get a spot in. If you're local to NYC you can qualify by running 4 out of 6 of their events, but if you're not you'll have to apply for the lottery and if you don't get in through that there is also the charity programme. Overseas runners can get in via one of the tour operators, but entries aren't available for US runners this way. The lottery generally takes place during November each year. Check the race website Race website https://www.nyrr.org

One of the World Marathon Majors, the Berlin Marathon has built itself a fearsome reputation for marathon world records. Year after year it invests in one or two of the fastest of the elite runners, and almost inevitably this translates into a new world record. It's a very flat course. with the ideal climate and this makes it the perfect environment for super quick runners. If you're looking for your best time this could be the one. Berlin Berlin, the capital of Germany and its largest city, has a population of just under 4 million. Renowned for its historical buildings that stand alongside modern architecture as the past and present seamlessly intermingle. From the Brandenburg gate, that's such a feature of this event to the remains of sections of the Berlin Wall its fascinating legacy is around every corner. The Berlin Wall Memorial, located between the districts of Wedding and Mitte on Bernauer Straße, consists of the Memorial to the Victims of the Wall, a Documentation Centre and the Chapel of Reconciliation. The surviving section of the wall and watchtower enable visitors to get a real feel for the reality of the border facilities.You mustn't miss this, or the infamous Checkpoint Charlie nearby. Berlin is home to all the main government buildings, including the historical seat of the German parliament; the Reichstag, another fascinating place to visit. But it's not just all about the past. Berlin is a leading city when it comes to music, art and museums. Priceless artefacts from all over the world are on show at more than 170 museums, some on the internationally renowned Museum Island. There are no end of theatre venues specialising in variety performances, revue, cabaret and more and more artists are flocking to Berlin from all around the world, making it one of the most exciting destinations in the whole of Europe. It's also a popular destination for classical music fans from all over the world thanks to its leading orchestras, and the city's three opera houses, where memorable operas and ballets are performed. And there are plenty of open spaces where people can go to breathe in some fresh air. It's the country's greenest city, with vast parks, wooded areas and lakes. During the summer months, the focus is very much on beach bars, cafés and open-air cinemas. History of the Berlin Marathon The first event was held in 1974, with 244 finishing, including only 10 women. Four years later, the race started outside the Reichstag for the first time, by which time it had grown to 2,583 finishers, making it the largest city road race in Germany. In 1989, a children's race was added to the event, and eight years later an inline skating marathon was contested. It's one of the fastest courses in the world and world records are regularly broken. In 2023 Tigst Assefa broke another, with an incredible women's marathon world record of 2:11:53 hours. Racing wheelchair athlete Catherine Debrunner did the same, winning in 1:34:16 hours, another marathon world record. Race Organiser It's organised by SCC EVENTS, one of the major international players in the field of sporting events. It's an independent limited company, and is a 100% subsidiary of the large and renowned Sport-Club Charlottenburg, which is one of the top sports clubs in Berlin with almost 8,000 members. They are supported by our advisory board of around 20 members, a loose association of representatives from politics, business and sport and are based in the Olympiapark in Berlin. They also organise the half marathon, held in April. When? The race is held annually in September. Distances Marathon Is there an Expo On the former Flughafen Tempelhof, Platz der Luftbrücke 5, 12101 Berlin, on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Bibs must be picked up at this expo. How many runners? 40,000 The course When it comes to race day logistics there are very few events that are better than Berlin. When it comes to flat courses there are few better than Berlin and when it comes to world famous landmarks on route there are few better than Berlin. Add these benefits up and you can see why Berlin ranks as one of the best marathons in the world. Is it the best of the World Marathon Majors? You decide. We all like to get somewhere to stay close to the start or finish of our big events. In Berlin you can be close to both. The start is located between Straße des 17. Juni, between Brandenburg Gate and "Kleiner Stern" and the finish is at the Brandenburg Gate. Perfect for pre-race organisation. An added benefit is that are plenty of hotels to choose from in this part of the City, but be quick as they do sell out and prices rise sharply as the days after the lottery results are announced pass by. What a start! The start is also at a reasonable time in the morning so there is none of the seriously early morning wake up times that you can get; New York being one of the most challenging. All in all you couldn't wish for better race logistics if you tried. The start is in waves and at no point once you get going to you feel cramped on the course. There are wide open roads and although crowds are very sparse in the first half of the race, it's almost nice to get yourself going before the noise really kicks in from mile 13. Berlin has such a rich history (and you probably experienced much of this in the days leading up to the race) and the course is packed with plenty of landmarks that illustrate the vast changes the City has undergone in recent times. Initially the Marathon only operated in West Germany, for obvious reasons, but now of course it includes much of the East. You'll see tourist sites like the Reichstag, the Siegessäule (Victory Column), Berliner Dom (Berlin Cathedral, Berlin TV Tower and the Potsdamer Platz. And there's plenty of live music, played at more than 60 locations along the course. The Reichstag is clearly one of the most significant buildings in the City and it's one you need to explore before or after the event. It oozes history. With its famous glass dome is one of the most frequently visited sights in Berlin. It is the seat of the German parliament, the Bundestag and is open to the public, although pre-booked tickets are essential. In the summer of 1995, the Reichstag building became world-famous, as a result of an incident totally unrelated to politics. For two weeks, it was wrapped with a silver-colored tarpaulin measuring around 100,000 square meters. As a result it attracted millions of visitors, whose endless images gave the Reichstag building international popularity, like never before. The famous Reichstag Soaring 368 metres into the sky, Berlin’s TV Tower is the city’s most visible landmark at 368 metres tall and it almost feels like an ever present on the course. You seem to be able to see it everywhere. It's the highest building in Europe open to the general public. From its viewing platform, you have spectacular 360-degree panoramic views out across the entire city. It is ranked among the top sights in twenty-first century Germany. After German reunification, the TV Tower took on an entirely new significance. No longer just a symbol of East Germany, it quickly became a key part of Berlin’s new cityscape, and soon came to symbolise the city around the world. The course has generous water stations and towards the end offers flat Coke. This does happen occasionally in marathons, but it's the only one of the Majors that does so. There are also plenty of stations offering cut fruit which is a nice change. But one of the real plus points is that it's so very flat! There is no stress about an impending hill that will destroy your legs in the final stages, there is literally nothing and that's why the elites and runners of all abilities love it. Nothing about this event is difficult. Even the expo beforehand is easy. And the finish. Wow. It's on a par with London. A run down a long home straight with one of the most famous buildings in the world that you get to run through. The Brandenburg Gate, designed in 1791, stands 26-meters high and was inspired by the Acropolis of Athens. In 1795 a chariot drawn by four horses was added, known as the Quadriga and representing. the Goddess of Victory. The one you see now is an exact replica as the original was destroyed in WW2. It's held up by twelve columns with five passageways and you get to run through one of them! In 1956, the East and West joined together to rebuild the landmark after its extensive damage from WW2. From here it's only a few metres to the finish line and the inevitable euphoria that comes from finishing a marathon and especially finishing an event of this scale. If you only do one marathon try and make it this one. It's a superb experience and being able to run on closed roads past this level of history is something that we don't get a chance to do very often! What's unique? The run to the finish through the Brandenburg Gate is one of the best parts of any marathon course anywhere. Do charities benefit? There is an extensive charity programme, with charities from many different countries having guaranteed entries. These are a great way to get a spot if you don't get in via the ballot. Our verdict As you'd expect with a race organised by the guys responsible for the Berlin Marathon this is an event of the highest quality. It's flawless from start to finish and everything they promise is delivered. It's an intriguing city, oozing history and the opportunity to have a weekend away in a place like this and do a half at the same time is one that should be too good to miss. How to register Online via the website. Just like the other Majors this one is very hard to get a spot in and they operate a lottery. If you don't succeed in the lottery, there are the usual 'good for age', charity and tour operator options. Charities don't ask you to raise as much in this race as they do in others, so that is a good option. Race website https://www.bmw-berlin-marathon.com/en/

Another of the World Marathon Majors. the Chicago Marathon doesn't boast the history and world famous landmarks of some of its peers, but it does boast excellent race day logistics and a pancake flat course. Even if you're not after your Majors medal it's still one that you need to tick off the bucket list. Chicago Chicago is a welcoming city with plenty of world-class attractions that can suit all styles of travel. It's a particularly accessible city, with many attractions, dining options, and entertainment centrally located. There are also a number of neighborhoods further out from the city centre that are worth the easy bus or train ride to explore. Hundreds of theatres fill the city, from Broadway shows to indie productions. Some of the world’s best museums are found here, including the perennially popular A rt Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum. Chicago is also an architectural significant and diverse city, home to some of the most notable architects of the twentieth century. And there are plenty of accommodations to choose from, from budget to all the fancier chains. The Hilton is the race hotel only a few steps from the start and finish. History The first event was held when there were 2128 finishers. To date there have been over a million finishers and six world records, including in 2023. 2023, the 45th running, was a landmark event. The largest finisher field in event history included four course records and the race’s millionth finisher. Kelvin Kiptum (KEN) became the first man to run a sub-2:01 marathon in an officially sanctioned competition, breaking the tape in a world-record time of 2:00:35. Course records fell in every professional division of the race, with Sifan Hassan (NED) setting a new women’s course record in 2:13:44, Marcel Hug (SUI) breaking his own record set last year in the men’s wheelchair race in 1:22:37 and Catherine Debrunner (SUI) writing her name in the race’s history books with a new women’s wheelchair course record of 1:38:44. Race Organiser The Bank of America owns and organises the event. When is the Chicago Marathon? The race is held annually in October Distance Marathon Is there an Expo? The Expo features over 100 exhibitors offering Bank of America Chicago Marathon merchandise and the latest in running footwear, apparel, nutrition and technology. Additionally, the Health & Fitness Expo is the home of the participant packet pick-up for all Marathon participants. Held at Chicago’s McCormick Place, the three-day Expo is free and open to the public. How many runners? 50,000 The course The start and finish is in Grant Park which is a stand out feature of this race. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Grant Park is Proudly referred to as "Chicago's Front Yard," and totals 312.98 acres. It's a public park located in Chicago’s central business district in the Loop Community area. Grant Park’s most prominent features include Maggie Daley Park, Buckingham Fountain, the Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum Campus. It's also home to baseball diamonds, tennis courts and breathtaking gardens. The park plays host to some of the city's largest food and music festivals, including The Taste of Chicago and The Grant Park Music Festival and also Lollapalooza, a popular outdoor music festival. It's the perfect space for a marathon start and finish line. Nothing feels cramped and everyone has plenty of time to move around freely. Sponsors are happy and signage is great. The first mile takes you across Michigan Avenue, known more commonly as the Magnificent Mile. This street is home to dozens of historic buildings and huge skyscrapers and is the area that gives the City its reputation for its stunning architecture. Historic Lincoln Park, between miles 4 and 7, was established over 100 years ago. This picturesque neighborhood is a nature lover’s dream, with manicured gardens, a hidden lily pond, a historic indoor botanical garden, and tons of lakefront green space with sweeping city views. It also happens to be home to one of the country’s oldest free zoos and an acclaimed dining scene. At halfway you come to Chicago’s Union Station, hailed as one of the greatest and most historic public transit hubs in the nation. Named a Chicago landmark in 2002 and designated one of “America’s Great Places” in 2012 by the American Planning Association, Chicago’s Union Station is a staple among the city’s iconic architecture. Constructed at a cost of $75 million in the 1920s (more than $1 billion in 2017 dollars), Union Station anchors the West Loop. It brings in travelers from both coasts and disperses local commuters throughout the Chicago area. The main attraction in the head house is the Great Hall, with its 219-foot-long barrel-vaulted skylight that soars 115 feet above the ground. It was blacked out during World War II for security reasons and remains in need of restoration. Other original elements of the station that still exist include long oak benches, along with light fixtures and chandeliers decorated with birds, bees, butterflies and flowers. Chicago was a destination for immigrants to the United States for decades and as a result there are many different cultural enclaves throughout the city and many of them are along the marathon course. You run through Greektown, Little Italy, and the Mexican-American hub of Pilsen, but perhaps the most exciting is Chinatown. With only five miles to go when you hit this point, you’ll love the festive atmosphere of the crowds and the Chinese music being played at the streetside parties. The run to the finish, although not as spectacular as some, is still highly memorable as you head back to pretty much exactly where you started, (perfect for friends and family) at Grant Park, along the shores of Lake Michigan. Once you’ve grabbed your goody bag, medal and your bag head north to Millennium Park and Buckingham Fountain and stretch your legs. Millennium Park is more than an attraction. The lakefront campus, located in the heart of downtown Chicago, is home to the iconic Cloud Gate statue, known locally as The Bean, interactive fountains, tranquil gardens, free events, public art, skating rinks, rock climbing, and lots of green space. Unveiled in 2005, The Bean is British artist Anish Kapoor’s first outdoor public sculpture in the United States, and one of the largest sculptures of its kind in the world. Do charities benefit? 190 official charity teams $27.6 million raised by charity runners at the 2022 Chicago Marathon $291 million raised since 2002, the beginning of the Official Charity Program Our verdict There isn't quite as much to see in Chicago as there is in New York, but this is still a very memorable event and obviously standards here are incredibly high. If you love a flat course this is one you need to do! How to register There is a ballot that is typically different to get a spot through. Once runners have been notified if they have been successful the alternative options are tour operators (if you're not US based or guaranteed entries from one of the many charity partners. Race website https://www.chicagomarathon.com/

Located just over 50 miles south of central London , the Brighton Marathon is a great option for those that don't get an entry in the London Marathon as it's held at a similar time, in April, every year. The course is nice and flat and there's plenty of support on the streets. Definitely a great option if you're looking for a northern hemisphere Spring marathon. Brighton Brighton, in the UK county of Sussex and with a population of around 150,000, spreads over the chalk slopes of the South Downs to the north. To the east it is fronted by chalk cliffs, and to the west it merges with the residential borough of Hove. In 2000 the unitary authority of Brighton and Hove was granted city status. With fantastic transport links and a variety of world-class hotels and venues all within walking distance of each other, Brighton combines a coastal location with a unique city atmosphere. It's under an hour by rail from London and 30 minutes from London Gatwick Airport. Everything is within walking distance with thousands of hotel rooms close to major Brighton conference centres and venues. It's renowned for its fascinating shopping areas, diverse cultural, music and arts scene, and its large LGBTQ+ population, leading to its title of the ‘unofficial gay capital of Britain’. There’s even a Royal Palace (more on that later), built as a monument to decadence and proof that the city has been at the forefront of entertainment and hospitality for over 200 years. Brighton was for many centuries nothing more than a tiny fishing port with its houses of black flint, including the Lanes, now known for antique shops. Brighton now has more than 7 miles (11 km) of seafront above its pebbly beach. East of the Palace Pier the first electric railway in the UK carried tourists in open coaches. There is a major theatre and racecourse and plenty of major events annually. History of the Brighton Marathon The first Brighton Marathon took place on 18 April 2010. The inaugural Brighton Marathon was set up by former international athlete Tim Hutchings and local athlete Tom Naylor. The race opened to 12,000 entries, with 7,589 participating on race day. The route took in some of the sights of central Brighton, starting at Preston Park, before heading East towards Rottingdean. Runners then headed west out to and around Hove, before heading back to Brighton seafront and finishing on Madeira Drive, close to the Pier. A year later the number of runners increased by 500 and the profile of the event increased significantly. The introduction of the charity programme further increased runner numbers and by 2012 entry numbers had increased to 18,000. With the awarding of the Bronze label by the world athletics governing body Brighton was accepted as the UK's number two marathon after London. Numbers increased steadily over the next few years, with more overseas runners targeting the race. More events were added by the organised company, Grounded Events, but in 2020 and 2021 the pandemic hugely impacted the race. In 2022 London Marathon Events took over and are working with Brighton & Hove City Council on the next stages of the event's development. Race Organiser London Marathon Events now organise the event under licence from Brighton & Hove City Council. When? The race is held annually in April. Distances Marathon and 10k. There is a children's mile event the day before. Is there an Expo? There has been an expo at the event many times. but with the change in ownership this may change going forwards. We'll keep you updated here. How many runners? In 2025 there were just over 12,500 entrants, across the marathon and 10k distances. Course The 2023 Brighton Marathon started at Preston Park at 9.45 am, with runners heading to Withdean, looping back to Preston Park (mile 3) and heading to the city on London Road. It's then past the Pavilion at mile 5, and then another loop north towards Elm Grove and back. Take time to absorb the splendour of the Royal Pavilion; it's a course highlight. In 1783 the Prince of Wales visited Brighton for the first time and he left a lasting legacy. His many visits inspired the Regency architecture that is prevalent throughout the area. The Pavilion designed in an Indian style, with Chinese inspiration internally, now houses a museum and art gallery, while the Dome, originally the royal stables, is used for concerts and conferences. From mile 8 it's a long out and back, east along the coast, past Brighton Marina to Ovingdean and Rottingdean. The Marina is the largest marina in the UK and there's plenty more to it than just boats. There's an 8 screen cinema, 26- lane bowling alley, glow in the dark golf, casino, and plenty of shops. At mile 17 you run past the finish area at Hove Lawns, at the start of two more out and back loops. The first takes you to Portslade, a 16th Century village, back to Hove Lawns and the second loop is to Hove Lagoon and back to Hove Lawns for the finish. What's unique? As with any major town or city being closed to traffic on marathon day you have the chance to explore Brighton in a way you don't get on any other day. Do charities benefit? There is a significant charity programme at this event. More than 130 charities, both local and national offer guaranteed entries and also encourage runners with their own entries to raise money for them. Charities purchase a programme from the organisers and then get exposure on the event website and within newsletters and social media. Our verdict It's a London Marathon Events company event so you know it will be well organised. How to register Online via the website. Entries are unlikely to sell out but will close a few weeks before the event. There are guaranteed entries available from official charities and some tour operators do have entries available. Race website https://www.brightonmarathonweekend.co.uk/

Everything you need to know about the Royal Parks Half Marathon The Royal Parks Half Marathon in the heart of London takes in some of the capital's world-famous landmarks, on closed roads and within four of London's eight Royal Parks - Hyde Park, The Green Park, St James's Park and Kensington Gardens. It was set up by The Royal Parks charity as an annual fundraising initiative to help conserve and enhance London’s eight Royal Parks and at the same time it encourages runners to raise what they can for their favourite charities. The Destination London's Royal Parks are the lungs of the city and wherever you are in the City you're never likely to be far from one. If you're visiting London there is a very good chance you will visit one or more, either for an event or just to experience their magic. As soon as you step inside it feels like the urban chaos has been left behind and you're deep in the country. Here we look at three of the most popular. Hyde Park Hyde Park covers 350 acres of green space and its highlights include the Diana Memorial Fountain, built to honour the late Princess of Wales and Speakers’ Corner, an historic site of public protest, speeches and debates once used by Karl Marx, George Orwell and Vladimir Lenin. There's the Hyde Park Tennis and Sports Centre, which includes football pitches, a putting green and a space for lawn bowls, as well as two riding stables and the Serpentine Lido, famous for its open water swimming at all times of the year. The Park hosts many festivals throughout the year and especially in the summer months, including international music festivals and there are regular large scale events like Winter Wonderland. The Green Park This is the Park where you really do go to get away from it all. It doesn’t have any lakes nor does it stand out for its impressive memorials or statues, but boasts hundreds of mature trees and grassland. The smallest of the Royal parks, it's only 40 acres and located just a few metres away from Buckingham Palace and Piccadilly. It used to be a marshland where lepers from the nearby St James's Hospital were buried until in 1668, under Charles II, the land became a park known as upper St James’s Park. It's had a chequered past, becoming a refuge for thieves and bandits and known as a duelling ground. There was an attempt on the life of Queen Victoria here in 1840. Regent's Park The 410 acre Regent's Park is located in inner north-west London. It's mainly open parkland with a wide range of facilities and amenities, including gardens; a lake and a boating area, sports pitches and children's playgrounds. On the northern side is London Zoo and the headquarters of the Zoological Society of London. There are several public gardens with unique flowers and plants, including Queen Mary's Gardens in the Inner Circle, home of the Open Air Theatre. The official residence of the U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom, stands in private grounds in the western section of the park. History The Royal Parks Half Marathon was set up by The Royal Parks charity as an annual fundraising initiative to help conserve and enhance London’s Royal Parks for everyone The money raised by the event helps to keep the magic of eight vital green spaces alive, teach children and adults about the natural world, care for wildlife and conserve historic monuments. The Parks are Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, St. James’s Park, The Green Park, The Regent’s Park & Primrose Hill, Greenwich Park, Richmond Park, Bushy Park, Brompton Cemetery and Victoria Tower Gardens. The Parks themselves are owned by the Crown with their responsibility resting with the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. The Royal Parks charity manages the Parks on behalf of the Government. Race Organiser The event is owned by the Royal Parks charity and operated on its behalf by London Marathon Events Ltd, until at least 2027. When? The race is held annually in October Distances Half Marathon 13.1 miles of stunning scenery Is there an Expo? Race bibs are posted prior to the event. After the race there is a Food & Fitness Festival, with a focus on fun and sustainability. How many runners? 16,000 Course It all starts (and finishes) in the Festival Area, established for the day on the south side of Hyde Park. There's a waved start format, beginning at 9am. From here runners head east to the magnificent Wellington Arch and then through The Green Park to Buckingham Palace, one of the most famous buildings in the world. The Palace has been the official London residence of the UK’s sovereigns since 1837 and today is the administrative headquarters of the Monarch. There are 775 rooms. These include 19 State rooms, which are open to the public, 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices and 78 bathrooms! The mass start at Hyde Park It's then along the southern edge of St James's Park to the Houses of Parliament and then Trafalgar Square at mile 4. It's then west along St James's Park and The Green Park and past the Arch again. It was built as an original entrance to Buckingham Palace, later becoming a victory arch proclaiming Wellington's defeat of Napoleon. Crowned by the largest bronze sculpture in Europe, it depicts the Angel of Peace descending on the four-horse chariot of war. You're now only half a mile or so from the start. The last 8 miles of the course are exclusively within Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens and this gives you the scale of the Parks. They are massive and there are only a couple of stretches where you can see runners coming in the opposite direction, around 5.5 miles and 10 miles. Runners have a great view of historic Kensington Palace at 11 miles. It's a working Royal residence and a favorite residence of successive sovereigns until 1760. It was also the birthplace and childhood home of Queen Victoria. It's now home to the Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Kate. Just outside the Park at just after 12 miles is the Royal Albert Hall and then it's into the festival area and the superb run to the finish! The Royal Albert Hall at mile 12 What's unique? There is no other event in London where the run goes through four Royal Parks. There are more major running events in the city now than ever before, but none with this focus. Do charities benefit? There is a significant charity programme and one of the event's objectives is to support charitable running. Charities are able to purchase entries that are then made available to runners who agree to fundraise for them. £60 million has been to date for over 1,200 UK charities. Our verdict Although the vast majority of the half is not around London's streets it does give you a unique take on the city. It's very well organised as you'd expect and the atmosphere is quality. Definitely worth doing. How to register Online via the website. There is a ballot that is normally oversubscribed. If rejected from the ballot it is easy to get an entry from a partner charity in return for a pre-agreed amount of fundraising. Specialist running tour operators do have entries available for international runners.. Race website https://www.royalparkshalf.com/

Everything you need to know about the Dubai Marathon Dubai shares the spotlight with some of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. One of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, the city is home to more than 200 nationalities and offers an unforgettable experience to all visitors. One of these is the Dubai Marathon and 10k that starts in the shadow of the iconic Burj Al Arab. It's a flat course and the weather during race month is perfect. The Destination Dubai has a population of 3.5 million and is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates. Dubai grew into a regional trading hub, from humble beginnings as a small fishing village in the 19th century. Its revenues are from trade, tourism, aviation, real estate and financial services, unlike many of its neighbors who depend on oil for their futures; here it's less than 1 percent of the emirate's economy. It has the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, the second most five star hotels in the world and the only seven star hotel, that's a big park of the marathon course. It's not all about skyscrapers. There's a rich cultural heritage here that's well explained at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding and visits to the Dubai Museum and the Etihad Museum will fill in any gaps. There's plenty of art on Alserkal Avenue and must see opera at the Dubai Opera House. The multicultural mix here means the cuisine is as varied as you could wish for, from local home grown eateries and food markets to Michelin restaurants. The working week here is different than you might be used to. Most don't work on Fridays and as a result restaurants are busy and malls are also packed with shoppers until late. One major change to the visitor attraction landscape over the past few years is the growth in theme parks. Four opened in 2016 alone. Motiongate with rides based on blockbusters such as Madagascar and Ghostbusters.and there's the world’s largest indoor theme park with dedicated Marvel and Cartoon Network zones, called the IMG World of Adventure. The Aquaventure Waterpark is the largest waterpark in the world, with 105 different slides and rides, including some of the highest and fastest on the planet. There is also Legoland, where 60 million bricks were used in its construction. A great way to explore the desert! And then there are desert safaris. From dune bashing (high speed 4 wheel driving adventures) to buggy tours, to camel riding, to sandboarding and then a relaxing evening dinner under the stars, the desert gives a Dubai stay a whole different twist. History The first Dubai Marathon was held in 1998 , starting outside the Al Wasl Club, and finishing inside the Al Wasl Stadium. Only 150 runners entered, and only 48 of them finished. The event changed management during 1999, with no race held that year. In 2000 it moved to January where it has remained. It is one of the fastest marathons in the world and has extensive prize money, meaning some of the top athletes in the world have run here. Before the pandemic hit it had produced 24 of the 100 fastest men’s times in history and 18 of the 100 fastest women’s times. In 2008, one million dollars were offered for a world record and $250,000 to both the men’s and women’s winners. Haile Gebrselassie took the win in that race with an impressive time of 2:04:53, but not quite fast enough for the biggest prize. The event has grown to 25,000 runners and has been organised by the same team since their first event in 2000. Race Organiser Pace Events FZ LLC When? The race is held annually in January Distances Marathon, 10km and 4km fun run Is there an Expo? Race pack collection is at the Adidas store in the Dubai Mall from Wednesday through Saturday. How many runners? 25,000 Course The start and finish of the Marathon and the 10km is on the Umm Suqeim Road opposite the Madinat Jumeirah and in the shadow of the iconic Burj Al Arab. Both these starts will be at the Madinat Jumeirah end of Umm Suqeim Road. The 4km will start off the Umm Suqeim Road on Al Sufouh opposite the Madinat Jumeirah. All the finishes will be at the Dubai Police Academy end of Umm Suqeim Road. This is a different course from 2023 when the race was focused around Expo City. The marathon starts at 6.00am 10km Road Race is at 6.30 and the 4km Fun Run at 10.00am. The elite wheelchair event is five minutes before the marathon.. Temperatures are always perfect for this marathon The Marathon Route starts on the Umm Suqeim Road near the Madinat Jumeirah turning left onto the left hand side of the carriageway heading up Al Sufouh, running past Dubai College Junction at mile 2. It's then past the Dubai Media City, a free zone dedicated to all forms of media. It's the very first of its kind to be established in the region in 2001 and includes major companies and institutions specialised in the fields of media and communications. At. mile 4 is the first turnaround at The Westin Dubai and it's then past the entrance to Palm Island. Built from reclaimed land in a series of artificial archipelagos, Palm Jumeirah is shaped like a palm tree when viewed from above, hence its name. The unique island is home to some of Dubai's top luxury resorts, including Atlantis, The Palm, FIVE Palm Jumeirah Hotel, the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, and many more. Past the Royal Mirage the route heads east back to the Madinat Jumeirah and onto the Jumeirah Beach Road running past the Burj Al Arab on the left. The Burj Al Arab is one of the most famous landmarks and tourist attractions in Dubai and is renowned for its 'seven-star status'. The luxury record-breaking all-suite hotel includes a range of fine-dining restaurants, incredible beaches and the expansive Burj Al Arab Terrace. It opened in 1999 and is built on its own island, the sail-shaped building rising 321m giving guests incredible views of the Arabian Gulf. The Jumeirah Beach Hotel next to the Burj Al Arab is also spectacular. It's one of the original beach hotels, one of Dubai’s superstars, and has a private white-sand beach, 21 bars and restaurants, and uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf. This is now the 9 mile mark. The Jumeirah Beach Hotel just past mile 9 From here runners head up the Jumeirah Beach Road on the left carriageway towards the bridge at the Creek and then doing a U turn just after the Dubai Offshore Sailing Club and before the bridge at the Al Mehemal Road junction . Established in 1974 the Sailing Club has excellent facilities enjoyed by over 700 members, including a marina with 152 berths. It's then back west to the Madinat Jumeirah junction and then running this loop section for the second time. Jumeirah Beach Road is one of the coolest streets in Dubai with a combination of five-star hotels, old-school shawarma shops, quirky independent restaurants and shops that sell everything from beach essentials to nicknacks, so you won't be bored having another look. After the second lap runners will turn left after the Burj Al Arab at the Madinat Jumeirah junction running along Umm Suqeim Road for 500m heading to the finish line before the Dubai Police Academy. The 10k route is the first out and back section of the marathon course. There are aid stations at 15k, 20k, 25k, 30k, 35k,40k for the Marathon and at the finish. 500ml bottles of Masafi Water are at every 5km and intermediary stations in between the 5km points from 5km to 40km. This course is a return to courses from previous years so don't expect big crowds and it's unlikely there will be much music along the way. The finishes at the Dubai Marathon are always impressive What's unique? Dubai is a busy place and to be able to run in some of its popular areas on traffic free roads is a special opportunity. Do charities benefit? There is no official charity programme, but runners are encouraged to raise funds for their preferred charity. Our verdict It's a great time to head to Dubai for a marathon. The weather is perfect and the crowds are not as heavy as they are at other times of the year. It's a really flat course so you should get a decent time, but don't rely on crowd support for motivation. How to register Online via the race website. It closes a month before race day. Race website https://www.dubaimarathon.org/

The perfect summer road race Held in August every year in the town of Falmouth, Cape Cod, Massachusetts, the Falmouth Road Race is one of the most popular events on the east coast and one that raises huge amounts for charity. Operated for more than 50 years, it's a 7 mile event that starts to the west of the town, heads east along the coast and finishes in the centre of town, where the celebrations are in full flow. It's another iconic US event that you must do. The Destination The state of Massachusetts has some wonderful coastal locations and there are few better than Cape Cod. In the southwest corner of New England is the town of Falmouth and its eight villages. These include Woods Hole where the Falmouth Road Race starts and Falmouth itself where it finishes. Outside of the summer months there are only around 50,000 local residents, but when the holidays start these numbers grow hugely as visitors from all over the US and further afield flock to the gorgeous beaches and charming settlements. And there's world famous Martha's Vineyard, popular with the rich and famous, located only seven miles offshore There are art galleries, historic sites, quaint shops, bookstores, bakeries and restaurants. There are events year round like live theatre, harbour side concerts, a lively jazz fest and the acclaimed Woods Hole Film Festival each summer. Fishing is extremely popular, with the deep harbours, extensive shoreline and open waters perfect for deep sea and sport fishing with tuna, bluefish and the sought after striped bass all prevalent in the warmer months. There are ten beaches in Falmouth, with Chapoquoit Beach and Old Silver Beach, amongst the most visited. Sunsets here are very memorable! History There were 92 finishers in the first Falmouth in 1973. The race distance of just over 7 miles was dictated by the starting point in Woods Hole. It was from the Captain Kidd restaurant to the Brothers 4 club in Falmouth Heights. The idea came from local runner, Tommy Leonard, and it was one of many events that began in the 70's running boom.The initial route is relatively unchanged since that first event, although there are a few more runners these days. 10,000 lucky runners now compete each August and it's one of a handful of events globally that sells out. And it has an elite field, funded by corporate support. Race Organiser of the Falmouth Road Race It's owned and managed by Falmouth Road Race, Inc. a not for profit organisation that is committed to supporting and promoting local organisations. Their specific focus on youth athletics and programming that promotes health and wellness. The many sponsors, partners, supporters, benefactors and patrons are the backbone of the nonprofit’s giving. Since 2012, with a focus on youth, health, and wellness, FRR Inc. has awarded more than $3.7 million in grants, community contributions, donations and scholarships for high school graduates from the local area. When? The race is held annually in August. Distances It's a single event distance over a 7 mile course. Is there an Expo? There is a really good Health & Fitness Expo for runners, friends and family. It's not on the scale of the really big city centre marathons but it has all of the same elements. You'll need to pick up your bib here as they are not posted in advance. It's open for the 3 days prior to the race and closes on Saturday at 3pm so make sure you're there before then as it's a bit of an earlier close than normal. How many runners? In 2025 there were just over 10,000 entrants. Course The race starts from Woods Hole, with free buses for all runners leaving from Lawrence School up to 7:30 am. A wave system is used at the start and this ensures that there is no overcrowding along the course or at the finish. The beginning of the course is very hilly, with a starting line by the Captain Kidd Restaurant & Bar, a century old building in Woods Hole, seven miles west of the finish line, by Falmouth Heights beach. Pretty much from the first few steps it goes uphill, gradually, onto a long curved coastal stretch that runs by Nobska Light, one of the most famous landmarks on the Cape. The Lighthouse was operated by the U.S. Lighthouse Service for 111 years until 1939. The quarters were converted into the residence for the area Coast Guard Commander, which continued until 2013, when it was determined that the structure was in need of extensive repair. The Town, in turn, in March 2016, gave responsibility for restoration, maintenance, and operation as a museum to the Friends of Nobska Light. The Friends have restored the Tower and are working on the development of a museum. From the lighthouse runners continue east along a wooded road with gentle rolling hills, onto Surf Drive past Martha's Vineyard Sound, past beach cottages on stilts, before heading inland. There's plenty of crowd support in Falmouth town and along Falmouth Harbor. There's a cruel 1⁄4-mile (400 m) hill just before the finish but that won't bother runners with all the crowd noise at this point! The huge American flag flying at the finish line is an unforgettable image of the race. What's unique? Cape Cod, especially in summer, is a fantastic part of the world. It's also a very busy part of the world. Being able to run along an extremely popular part of the Cape with no traffic and with plenty of crowd support gives this event its uniqueness. Seven miles of stunning countryside, with 10,000 like minded runners is special and knowing it's all in aid of charity makes it even better. Do charities benefit? There is an extensive charity programme, primarily for local charities and this is boosted by the fact that the event sell out. Charities have access to a number of bibs that can then be allocated to runners in exchange for a pre agreed amount of fundraising. In 2022 $6.5 million was raised. bringing the total raised from the program's inception in 2000 to $56.5 million. This is a very significant achievement for a seven mile event. Our verdict If you're looking for a quintessentially US event, in a beautiful summer environment without it taking over your trip this is the one for you. It's well organised and has plenty of local of local support. How to register Online via the website. It always sells out so you need to be quick. Entries are also available via the charity partners so this is an option once it's sold out (and of course before it's sold out). Race website https://falmouthroadrace.com/

In the world of charity running, few challenges are as daunting as meeting your fundraising target. In this podcast, we’ll explore how Clare Downes, an inspiring runner from Shrewsbury, running for the Scoliosis Support & Research charity, has not only met but exceeded her fundraising goal for the London Marathon. With practical tips, heartfelt motivation, and a successful fundraising event, Clare’s story offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to raise money for a cause. Have a listen here Understanding the Motivation Behind the Run: Clare Downes is running the London Marathon for Scoliosis Research, motivated by her daughter’s experience with scoliosis—a condition characterised by an abnormal curvature of the spine. Clare’s daughter is not only an athlete but also a testament to resilience, having competed for Great Britain and currently pursuing her dreams at Duke University in the US. Clare’s personal connection to the cause gives her a unique drive, stating, "If I can do my little bit to support her and other people with the condition, that’s the least I can do." Planning for Success When Clare and her friend Sarah decided to tackle the marathon together, they faced the dual challenge of training and fundraising. Acknowledging the pressure of meeting their charity targets, they strategically planned their fundraising efforts early on. They set a target of £2,500 each but decided to aim higher, pledging £2,500 to Scoliosis Research to ensure they would not just meet but exceed expectations. Organising a Successful Fundraising Event: To launch their fundraising efforts, Clare and Sarah organised a summer garden event. With a background in business and marketing, Clare was well-equipped to handle logistics. They reached out to local businesses for support, which proved invaluable. Clare explains, "We decided we'd do it in August because Sarah has a lovely garden, and we reached out to our friends, family, and local businesses for help." The event featured bubbly, canapés, and a raffle, with local businesses donating prizes. Clare’s son and a friend ran the bar, charming guests as they sold drinks. The event attracted over a hundred attendees and raised just under £5,000, which they split between their two chosen charities. Clare reflects, "We were overwhelmed with the support and what we made in one night." Key Takeaways for Fundraising Success: 1. **Start Early:** By planning their event as soon as they secured their spots in July, Clare and Sarah relieved the pressure of fundraising later in their training. 2. **Leverage Local Support:** Engaging local businesses not only provided essential supplies for the event but also fostered community involvement. 3. **Keep Costs Low:** Clare emphasised minimising expenses to maximise profits. They only spent on essentials and relied on donations for supplies. 4. **Make Payment Easy:** Utilising card payment terminals allowed guests to contribute without worrying about cash, increasing overall donations. 5. **Share Your Story:** Authentic connections resonate with potential donors. Clare’s personal story and her daughter’s journey inspired many to support her cause. Conclusion Clare Downes’ journey to raise funds for scoliosis research is a testament to the power of community, planning, and personal motivation. By organising a successful event, leveraging local resources, and sharing her heartfelt story, she has demonstrated that with the right approach, anyone can meet and exceed their fundraising goals. If you’re considering running for charity, take a page from Clare’s book and start planning your fundraising efforts today. Have a listen here

Manchester is one of the largest marathons in Europe It's a fast and flat course through Greater Manchester starting near Old Trafford football stadium and heading towards the city centre before looping around some of east Cheshire's favourite towns and back to Old Trafford. The Manchester Marathon has a rich history dating back to 1908. April is a busy marathon month in the UK, with the Manchester Marathon, Brighton Marathon and the London Marathon all happening within a month of each other. The destination The birthplace of the industrial revolution, Manchester has a proud history in science, politics, music, arts and sport. And today the city combines this heritage with a progressive vision to be a city that delivers surprise and delight in equal measures. Manchester city centre is jam-packed with buzzing restaurants, bars and cafes, great shops and fascinating museums and galleries. The Science and Industry Museum should be at the top of your list. The surrounding Greater Manchester boroughs offer a real mix of visitor experiences including quaint market towns, traditional pubs and beautiful green spaces and waterways to be explored on foot or bike. The city region is easily navigated, with great transport links, both in and around Greater Manchester. This is very much a Greater Manchester event and you'll see plenty of the region on your way round, like the towns of Sale and Altrincham, both well worth a visit once your race is done. Altrincham's new market hall is a must. Manchester is easy to get to with an international airport only a few miles from the city centre and excellent train links. Accommodation options are plentiful, with some swanky new hotels available if you're feeling flush. History The First Manchester Marathon was run in 1908, starting and finishing at the Saracen’s head pub in Warburton in Trafford. This was a 20 mile (there was no established distance for a marathon then) run organised by Salford Harriers. The first ever amateur marathon to be run using the now established marathon distance of 26 miles 385 yard distance was the Manchester Marathon in 1909. This marathon started in Sandbach and finished at the Fallowfield Stadium in Manchester.After a 14 year gap, the Manchester marathon returned and kept the same course from 1923 to 1928 and 1931 to 1936. This route started and finished at the Fallowfield Stadium passing through Cheadle, Timperley, Altrincham, Hale Barns, Styal and Gatley. From 1969 to 1973 the Maxol marathons started from Manchester Town Hall and finished at Old Trafford football stadium. Manchester Marathons were then run from 1981 to 1985 and from 1996 to 2002. After an absence of ten years the iconic Manchester Marathon returned to Trafford, the sporting heart of Greater Manchester, to offer the North West a truly magnificent personal challenge. Since then it has continued to grow, and firmly established itself as one of Europe’s premier marathon events. The route includes large parts of the City Centre and parts of leafy Cheshire, such as Sale and Altrincham Race organiser The Manchester Marathon is organised by Human Race Limited. It is part of a group of companies whose ultimate parent company is Amaury Sport Organisation, the organisers of the Paris Marathon and the Paris Half, along with many others. When? The race is held annually in April. Distances Marathon only, but they also offer a big half marathon in October. Is there an expo? There is no formal expo. Race packs are dispatched in the post prior to the event weekend for those UK based. These could arrive any time up until 48 hours before the run. If they don't arrive in time they can be collected at the race hotel, but not on race day. How many runners? In 2025 there were just over 36,000 entrants. The famous Old Trafford football stadium The course The 2023 route started at White City Circle on the A56 in Trafford. From here, runners made their way past Old Trafford and then towards the city centre via Chorlton Road passing Hulme. The Old Trafford football stadium officially opened on 19 February 1910 with a match between Manchester and Liverpool.. The stadium at that time consisted of one covered seating stand and open terraces on the other three sides. Capacity was slightly over 80,000. In 2006 and after many changes over the years , the stadium reached its current capacity when stands were built in the upper-tier corners on both sides of the North Stand. From the city centre, runners looped back towards Stretford on Bridgewater Way, leading onto Chester Road and then Cross Street. After going past Sale, they ran towards Manchester Road before turning off towards Timperley via Park Road. At the town of Altrincham (a trendy market town that's well worth a visit) at around the 16-mile mark they began the journey to the finish line through Brooklands and Marsland Road. At Chorlton-Cum Hardy on Edge Lane, it's not far to the finish line on Talbot Road, through Seymour Grove. The finish is at another Old Trafford stadium, this time it's the cricket ground, built in 1857 and now going through a major refurbishment phase. What's unique? Old Trafford stadium is something of a mecca for football fans, primarily for Manchester United fans. And the cricket ground is a mecca for English and Lancashire cricket fans! Do charities benefit? In line with other UK marathons there is a charity programme that encourages runners to raise money for their preferred charity. There are a number of headline and preferred charities that invest in the event in exchange for profile on the website and within event communications to the runners. Our verdict It's not a city centre marathon like London, Berlin or Paris, with crowds around every corner. It does run through Manchester city centre, where there is plenty of support, and it also takes in towns within Greater Manchester, where support will be sparse. It's flat though and that's important and the temperature could well be ideal for marathon running. How to register Online via the website. It does not sell out yet, but don't leave it too late. There are also entries available via a number of charities on the site. This will require you to raise an agreed amount for that charity. Race website https://www.manchestermarathon.co.uk/home/

One of America's favorite running weekends, the Flying Pig Marathon really does have something for everyone. From a kid's run to mile, to 5km, to 10km, to a half to the full marathon and a relay! There is no excuse for not getting involved. Ohio is a great place for a weekend away and Cincinnati offers great hotels and Airbnb's. You'll love it. The Destination Cincinnati, a city with a population of 2.2m, is in the US state of Ohio, bordering northern Kentucky. It has an exciting mix of top attractions and entertainment, all easily reached by the free streetcar system, with 18 stops on its 5.8-kilometer track through skyscrapers. There's quality sport with the Cincinnati Reds baseball and the Cincinnati Bengals NFL teams, both having their stadiums on the banks of the Ohio River. TQL Stadium, the home field of Major League Soccer team FC Cincinnati. Findlay Market houses merchants selling everything from fresh produce and meats to flowers and gifts, plus year-round street performers and special events. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is a can’t-miss institution highlighting the city’s crucial role in helping runaway slaves. There are free cultural events or enjoy the seasonal ice rink at Fountain Square, and catch musical performances at the Cincinnati Music Hall or Memorial Hall, in Washington Park. There's wonderful art at the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Contemporary Art Center or the Taft Museum of Art or spend a day at the world-class Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens. The Cincinnati Museum Center houses an interactive art and Children’s Museum in its amazing art deco building. There's the King Island amusement park for roller coasters and water slides or check out Cincinnati's rich history of music-making at the Cincinnati Black Music Hall of Fame. Germans have such a strong presence that many German-style breweries have popped up, and the annual Oktoberfest is the largest such gathering outside Munich itself. 'Over-the Rhine', Cincinnati’s oldest neighborhood, has breweries like Rhinegeist and Christian Moerlein, along the Brewing Heritage Trail of Cincinnati, where you can also tour historic sites like the building of the John Kauffman Brewing Company. Take a short trip over the Ohio River to sample craft spirits along Northern Kentucky's self-guided bourbon trail. History The first Flying Pig Marathon was first run as recently as 1999. Founded by Robert J Coughlin, an American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and environmentalist, best known for being the founder and prior Chairman/CEO of Paycor. After completing his first marathon in New York City in 1994, Coughlin had a vision for a marathon in Cincinnati that raised money for charity and functioned as a non-profit. It's now the 3rd-largest first-time marathon in the US. It had nearly 5000 finishers in 2008 and three years later there were over 30,000 across all of the weekend's events. Race Organiser It's owned and operated by a not for profit known as Pig Works. It was originally Cincinnati Marathon Inc. but it was felt by the directors that the new name better represents the growth of the event program and its ongoing work. It has three goals: Create fun participatory sporting events for individuals and groups of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds Contribute to charitable causes that support the growth and development of our community in Cincinnati and beyond Promote a lifestyle that weaves movement and health into the fiber of the community and extends beyond the bounds of event day When? The race is held annually in May. Distances Over the weekend there is a marathon, half marathon, 10k, 5k, mile, 4 person marathon relay, kids events and many more. It's a family festival of running. Is there an Expo? There is a two day Health and Fitness Expo where runners need to collect race packs. It's open to the public and has a decent range of exhibitors, with plenty of kit options. The race merch is really good. It's at the Duke Energy Convention Center. How many runners? Over the weekend there are more than 40,000 runners, joggers, walkers and wheelchair racers taking part in the ten events, beginning on Friday night with the 50 West Mile race. Course Both the full and half marathons start at 6.30am and runners are assigned a start coral based on the time entered on the entry form. The courses cut through parts across the two states, three cities and a whole host of neighborhoods. The marathon course starts outside Smale Riverfront Park and crosses the Taylor-Southgate Bridge south over the Ohio River into N orthern Kentucky, where it travels through Newport and crosses westward over the Licking River via the Fourth Street Bridge into Covington. Founded in 1815, Covington is the largest city in Northern Kentucky, well known for its historic neighborhoods including Licking-Riverside, MainStrasse Village and Wallace Woods, as well as for its downtown commercial district which is home to a large concentration of historic buildings. From Covington, the route takes the Clay Wade Bailey Bridge back over the Ohio River back north into Cincinnati. From here (mile 4) it's 11 miles north east to Miami via Woodburn, Madison and Bramble, where runners turn before heading back along the river to downtown. The Ohio River, which is on the left for the last 5 miles of the course, is 981-miles (1,579 km) from start to finish It is the third largest river by discharge volume in the United States and is also the 6th oldest river on the North American continent. The river flows through or along the border of six states, and its drainage basin includes parts of 14 states. There are more than 200 live entertainment and nutrition areas along the Sunday marathon and half marathon courses. One-fifth of those stations have themes. They’re run by teams from schools, sports teams, charities and community groups and they'll keep you going as the legs get tired. There are designated spectator zones along the course, and in the downtown area it is really busy. The finish is right near the start, in Smale Riverfront Park, 45-acres located along the region’s historic riverfront, flanking the Roebling Suspension Bridge between Great American Ballpark and Paul Brown Stadium. Features include an outdoor event stage, promenade, visitor and bike center, labyrinth, interactive fountains, a monument to the Black Brigade and the Moerlein Lager House. You'll love the event's Victory Party, a celebration of everyone's achievements. What's unique? Not a huge amount of really unique elements, but running through a major US city on closed roads is still really cool. Do charities benefit? Each year the organisers work with over 250+ charities and raise over $1 million annually. Over $17 million has been raised through the Flying Pig events over the past 25 years. Every Pig Works event includes a charitable tie-back to partner organizations. Our verdict This is a big weekend in the city and although there are bigger cities in the US, with bigger marathons this one has plenty going for it. It's really well organised and there is plenty of crowd support. Definitely one to have a look at. How to register Online via the website. All 2023 events sold out, apart from the marathon, so don't leave it too late. The partners charities also have entries available. Race website https://flyingpigmarathon.com/

The Cap10k is Austin’s oldest annual race and a rite of spring event for Texans and visitors from around the county. Take the entire family and join thousands of runners and walkers alike as you blaze a trail through the unique cityscape of Austin by foot. There's plenty to see and the finish line festival is definitely worth the wait! The Destination Austin, the capital city of Texas has been one of the fastest growing cities in the US since 2010 and when you've run this race it's not hard to see why. The million who live here get to enjoy a city that is home to a wonderful ballet, world-class museums, one-of-a-kind shopping and beautiful outdoor spaces and of course live music, that it has a global reputation for. As well as being known as the 'Live Music Capital of the World' it also has unique attractions and world-class museums. Two of the best are The Contemporary Austin - Jones Center, a glittering work of art, located downtown that appears as if it’s floating in mid air. Its 8,000 square feet of space allows for seasonal, dynamic exhibits and educational events for everyone. And there's the Contemporary Austin - Laguna Gloria, an historical site situated on Lake Austin that showcases outdoor sculptures by renowned international artists in a magical landscape. For something different head to The Museum of the Weird on historic Sixth Street. It builds on Austin's reputation for being weird that sets it apart from other Texas cities. Inside you will find unusual attractions, such as, freaks of nature, Fiji mermaids and shrunken heads, that are guaranteed to spark anyone’s curiosity and imagination. Live music is everywhere in Austin. There are musicians performing all over town and they play outdoors at seasonal live music series and at world-famous festivals. There are more than 250 live music venues and it's difficult to know where to start. There's plenty for outdoor enthusiasts, from scenic trails to crystal-clear lakes. Whether you’re a hiker, biker or boater, you’re sure to find an activity to satisfy your passion here. With more than 300 days of sunshine and an average temperature of 68 degrees, there aren't many days when being outdoors is hampered by the weather. With the growth in population in recent years has come an explosion in the culinary scene in the City. Pretty much whatever you're after here you'll find it, whatever the budget. Congress Avenue Bridge at the start History The first Cap10K was held in 1978 when it had 3,400 participants. This grew dramatically and by year six there were 20,000. The following year it was the second biggest in the US a in 1987 there were 28,000! Over the next twenty years numbers declined and then plateaued, before increasing again from 2007. 23,000 were registered in 2019 before a predicted storm forced the event to be cancelled just before the start. Then the pandemic forced the cancellation of the next two. Race Organiser Ventures Endurance LLC When? The race is held annually in April Distances 10k Is there an Expo? There is a Health & Fitness Expo at the Palmer Events Center on Friday and Saturday before the race where bibs are to be picked up. There is also event merchandise and the latest running footwear, apparel, nutrition, technology and healthy lifestyle providers. How many runners? 20,000 Course There are six start groups, all arranged in corrals by predicted finish time. This is crucial in a big event like this. The first one goes off at 8.00am and the last one at 8.50am. All runners need to finish in 2 hours (that's from the time they run over the start line). As you'd expect it's super busy at the start, but really well organised. It's a point to point course and the finish is nice and close to the start. From the start on Congress Avenue Bridge, the first 2k is north east, initially along Congress Avenue through the center of downtown. At the 1k mark is the historic Paramount Theatre, host to one of many live music acts that perform as runners pass. This classical revival style structure was built in 1915 and was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. Ahead is the stunning Texas Capitol and home to the State Legislature. The Texas Capitol is widely recognized as one of the nation's most distinguished state capitols. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986. There is almost too much to take in at this point, with historical monuments seemingly every few metres. At the 2km mark is Waterloo Park and the stunning Moody Amphitheater. The Park is 11 acres of revitalized green space in the heart of downtown and features hike-and-bike trails, stunning Hill Country Gardens, welcoming gathering spaces and the 5,000-capacity Amphitheater that only opened in 2021. It's then left onto the six lanes of 15th Street, the beginning of the first set of rolling hills and two notable Austin towers. The University of Texas clock tower rises from the center of the campus , only six blocks away and the historic #6 Moonlight Tower, popularized by the movie “Dazed and Confused” featuring local favorite Matthew McConaughey. Approaching the 3k mark there is a long downhill to recover and at the intersection of Enfield Road there is one of the race’s most iconic photo locations; back across the city with tens of thousands of runners in shot. The course then narrows and enters the Clarksville Neighborhood. This was once a location of slave quarters for some of the enslaved people who worked for Governor Elisha Pease. In 1865, after the emancipation in Texas, Governor Pease gave some of his land to former enslaved workers, hoping they would continue to work on his property as freedmen. Six years later Charles Clark, a former enslaved man, purchased two acres of land and built a house on what is now West Tenth Street. After the race head back and check out some of the buildings still standing from Clarksville’s origins, like Hezikiah Haskell House. The highest point on the course is just past the 4k mark, only 119-feet about the starting elevation. This historic neighborhood is home to the Treaty Oak, a 500-year-old Texas live oak tree, one of fourteen that used to stand here. There's a left turn at the 5k mark as the course heads south west under MoPac Expressway. Turning onto Winsted Lane the course narrows down by half again and then its through the Tarrytown Neighborhood towards the river. There are then two quick turns onto Lake Austin Boulevard and then Veterans Dive before dropping down to the river. The course terrain flattens over the next segment of the course as runners pick up the tempo and make a sweeping loop around the Stephen F. Austin High School campus. Making a narrow turn eastbound onto West Cesar Chavez sends runners back into downtown along the northern shoreline of the Colorado River. At the 8k mark it's under the arches of the Lamar Boulevard Bridge and then a kilometer later it's past Block 185. Completed in 2021, at 591 ft, the tower's curtain-wall glass façade curves away from the creek, giving the building a sailboat like appearance. Two short blocks later the course turns onto the South First Street Bridge and from here the finish line on Vic Mathias Shores is in sight. It's full of cheering spectators here and a great welcome as runners turn onto the four lane West Riverside Drive. After crossing the finish line, it's through the finish corral, within Butler Metro Park,and then onto the Finish Line Festival where there's plenty of free food and drink and a really upbeat vibe. The finish area at Butler Metro Park What's unique? Running downtown in Austin on traffic free roads. Do charities benefit? The event has partnered with the Austin nonprofit community for the past 30 years. Beginning in 1993 the Capitol 10K race donated from its event to local community non-profit organizations. The City of Austin Hike & Bike Trail received the first donation and through the years 20 organizations have received funds each year. To date well over $3m has been donated to the Austin community. Our verdict There is nothing quite like a major running event and when it's in a city like Austin, with such a great course, there are few reasons not to do it. The crowds are great, and the organization is excellent so give it a go as soon as you can. How to register Online via the race website. It may well sell out and it does get more expensive the closer you get to race day. Race website https://www.cap10k.com/

One of the biggest road races in the world for the past several decades, the Boulder 10k sends 50,000 runners through the streets of Boulder, Colorado, on a point-to-point race that ends at the University of Colorado (CU) football stadium, Folsom Field, full of cheering spectators and fellow runners. A global must-do race. The Destination Boulder is located at the base of the foothills of the Rocky Mountains at an elevation of 5,430 feet (1,655 m) above sea level. The city is 25 miles (40 km) northwest of the Colorado state capitol of Denver and is home to the flagship campus of the state's largest university, the University of Colorado. It began as a supply town for gold miners in the 1850s who came to find their fortune and it's now a cool college town, known worldwide for its outdoor activities and as a home to altitude running. Southwest of Boulder, Eldorado Canyon is known for its towering sandstone cliffs and world-class rock climbing. It offers 17.8 miles of exceptional hiking opportunities, as well as bait, fly, and lure fishing on the banks of the rushing creek. The Canyon is renowned in the U.S. for its more than 500 climbing routes, mostly traditional climbing but there are a small number of sport and top-rope routes to explore. Chautauqua Park Being the starting point for a number of hiking trails (ranging in different difficulty levels), the park attracts hikers with different levels of experience from all over. The park also lends itself to nature discovery, especially for those who take advantage of the park’s access to Open Space Mountain Park trails. The Boulder Creek path is a popular, 5.5-mile multi-use path that extends to Boulder Canyon on the west end of Boulder itself and Stazio Ballfields on the east end. It runs through downtown and has many attractions, including the Main Library, Civic Area Park and Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse. The commercial and social heart of Boulder is Pearl Street Mall. There are over a thousand businesses on this pedestrian-only thoroughfare, which runs along Pearl Street from 9th Street on the west end to 21st Street on the east end. It's a gathering place for both locals and and visitors, and where many of the best locally owned shops and restaurants can be found. Pearl Street was named by Food & Wine magazine as one of the Ten Best Foodies Streets in America. There are so many restaurants to choose from, ranging from James Beard Award winners to innovative up-and-comers. During race week it's a hive of activity, boosted by the many thousands who come from out of town. Fabulous Pearl Street Mall History In 1979 the Bosley family had a vision. The plan was to attract a few hundred of their friends and family to race though the streets of Boulder to celebrate Memorial Day. The inaugural race saw 2,700 registrations. The next year, it doubled in size and live entertainment was added to the celebration. Participation continued to soar in the ensuing years and decades, eventually reaching 50,421 in 2010. With an average of 45,000 finishers over the past 10 years, it’s now the largest Memorial Day celebration in the U.S. Named America’s All-Time Best 10K by Runner’s World, it is the 3rd largest running race in the United States and the 7th largest in the world. Almost 1.2 million runners, joggers, walkers and spectators of all ages have gathered over the years from Olympic medal winners and hopefuls, grandmothers and kids, running enthusiasts and one-race-a-year guests from all over the world come together at the foot of the Rocky Mountains to form one of the sport’s truly unique events. From its inception, the Bolder Boulder 10K offered equal prize money for the female and male winners. In 1984, it created a separate elite race from the mass event. There was also a deliberate split in the women’s and men’s elite race so that both races could be showcased equally and covered live on the local TV broadcast. Today, it offers one of the largest non-marathon prize purses in the U.S. Race Organiser The event is still locally owned and operated. When? The race is held annually in May Distances 10km Is there an Expo? The SportsEXHIBIT is held in conjunction with race weekend packet pick-up and registration. It's held in the heart of downtown Boulder on the Pearl Street Mall on Saturday, May 27th and Sunday, May 28th from 10 AM – 6 PM. How many runners? 50,000 Course It's not a really early start, with things kicking off with the pushrim race at 6:50 am. If you thought you'd seen a big race with lots of wave starts wait until you do this one. There are 100! Official start times for each participant will be sent in their “Go Time” email. The wave starts began in 1983 and there are 30 waves that require qualification and then it's first come first served for the others. From the start at Walnut and 30th it's north along 30th before heading west onto Folsom Street, just after 2km and then it's north again, to the suburbs. One of the big differences between this and other 10k events is the altitude. This is Colorado, so the 6.2 miles will feel much harder than they normally do. The start is at 5,275 ft and the highest point is 5,391 ft just past mile 4 as runners head south back into town. There's plenty of water on the course to help overcome the challenges associated with this kind of altitude. Just past the 7km mark it's onto famous Pearl Street, where the crowd noise and support is fantastic. Called the "Rodeo Drive of outdoor apparel," Pearl Street has an outdoor gear shop or two on nearly every block from 8th to 23rd Street and is a mecca for hikers, climbers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Keep focused as you head through! There's also plenty of activity on Walnut Street, before the turn south just after mile 5, onto Folsom Street. From here it's a triumphant run to the finish at Folsom Field and what a finish! With its magnificent views of the Rocky Mountains, Folsom Field, located on the campus of the University of Colorado is one the most picturesque stadiums in College football. It's home to the Colorado Buffaloes and was completed in less than ten months when the Buffaloes battled Regis College on October 11, 1924 with 26,000 fans packed the stadium. After numerous upgrades it can now seat over 53,000. It's an incredible place to finish and the perfect place to host what follows. Folsom Field, what a place to finish! The grand finale of the event takes place at Folsom Field every year at noon. It's an unforgettable ceremony honoring the men and women who serve and have served our country, and all of those who have given their lives protecting our freedom. What's unique? Plenty. The altitude, the huge numbers and the finish at Folsom Field. How many other events spent $80,000 covering the grass at their finish line? Do charities benefit? The organisers donate funds to dozens of non-profit groups who help as volunteers on race day. Each year the event organisers also donate numerous race entries to help nonprofits and local community events raise money. Our verdict Events of this scale have to be seen to be believed. The logistics involved are staggering. It might only be a 10km event, but it is most definitely travelling a long way to be part of. With events like this the actual race is only a small part of the experience. This is especially true here, with the elite events and the Parade at noon adding even more than usual. It's now an institution thanks to many aspects; the destination, the sheer numbers and the outstanding organisation. Do it now. How to register Online via the race website. It isn't a sell out so you'll be able to enter during race week, including early on race day. However this may change so check the website. Race website https://www.bolderboulder.com/

With more than 65,000 runners taking part in multiple distances, including the half and the full marathons and a course that weaves through the city's principal landmarks you can understand why the Mumbai Marathon is the biggest running festival on the continent. Check out the new route taking in Flora Fountain, Marine Drive, Chowpatty Beach, Haji Ali Dargah, the Bandra-Worli Sea link and the Mumbai Coastal Road and take in everything that makes Mumbai one of the most intriguing cities on the planet. The Destination Mumbai is truly the spirit of all that is India. It’s absolutely chaotic, hot and humid, beautiful. and messy and has the biggest divide between the have and have nots anywhere in the world. There are 18 million in the city and more than 23 million in the metropolitan area. The accommodation options are inevitably massive, from the likes of the iconic Taj Mahal Palace, right by the Gateway of India and built in 1903 to a myriad of budget options that are a fraction of the cost of their European equivalents. Gateway of India, the most iconic landmark in Mumbai, was built in 1924 by George Willet to honor the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai. It's best to visit early morning or late evening when it's cooler and crowds are lighter. It's next to the Taj Mahal Palace hotel, next to the Arabian Sea,TGrab a ferry and check it out from the water to give a different perspective. There's the Red Carpet Wax Museum, Snow World and many other Western style attractions and there's the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site: rock-cut caves that date back to several centuries. There's Marine Drive, a really popular place to visit in Mumbai at night and Colaba, the city's heritage district. There are many, many places to see in this fascinating city and you'll see plenty of them on the course. History In 2003 Anil and Vivek, founders of Procam International, attended the London Marathon and it was this visit that inspired the Mumbai Marathon. With the support of the Government and a multitude of local and international partners it has grown over time and spawned over 1500 running events across India. The social impact of the Marathon is unrivalled. Since its inception, the event has raised in excess of 38 million dollars, benefitting over 700 charity organisations. It is now the single largest fundraising event in India. Today, the Mumbai Marathon is amongst the top 10 marathons in the world and has put India on the global map of distance running. Race Organiser Procam International organise this and many other road races in India (and much more). When? The race is held annually in January - normally on the third Sunday. The start area at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus Distances There are six different race categories: Full Marathon (42.195 kms), Half Marathon (21.097 kms), Dream Run (6.6 km), Senior Citizens Race (4.7 km), Champions with Disability category (2.1 km) and the Open 10K Is there an Expo? There is an expo where race packets need to be collected for 4 days prior to the event. It's possible to book a bib pick up slot, which is especially helpful for overseas runners. How many runners? 65,000 entrants across all distances. Course As you'd expect it's another early start, with events kicking off at 5.30 am in the dark. This is quite normal, especially in Asia, given the heat and humidity. It's in the middle of winter, but as it's India, it will still be warm and at the finish it will be very warm. At the start it's likely to be 62 degrees Fahrenheit (17 degrees centigrade) and at the finish just under double that, which is pretty ok for Mumbai. The race begins outside the iconic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and the Municipal Corporation Building, surrounded by the historic heart of Mumbai. From here, the route moves past Flora Fountain and the Hutatma Chowk Memorial before heading alongside the green expanse of Oval Maidan. Runners continue past Churchgate Station and Brabourne Stadium, then enter Marine Drive toward the Air India Building. After a left turn onto Madam Cama Road, a U-turn brings runners back to Marine Drive. The route continues south toward the NCPA before another U-turn — completing the first 5 km. Bandra-Worli Sea Link at the 17-18km point From Marine Drive, the course continues along the flat stretch known as the Queen’s Necklace. Runners pass Girgaon Chowpatty Beach as they approach Babulnath Temple at the 10 km mark. Here, the route turns right toward Peddar Road, climbing gradually for the next kilometers. After cresting the climb, the course descends toward the iconic Haji Ali Dargah, reaching approximately the 13 km point. From Haji Ali, the route takes the northbound ramp onto the Mumbai Coastal Road, a modern sea-side highway featuring reclaimed land, bridges, and tunnels. After several kilometers, runners join the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, one of Mumbai’s most recognisable landmarks. The course crosses the bridge before descending toward Mahim Causeway, which connects the island city to the suburbs.From Mahim, the route continues through tree-lined roads passing Shivaji Park and the Siddhivinayak Temple area in Prabhadevi. Runners proceed toward Worli Seaface and continue along the Coastal Road stretch to Worli Dairy, where a U-turn directs them back toward Worli Interchange.After the Worli turn, runners re-enter the Coastal Road heading south. The route descends off the Coastal Road near Haji Ali before looping back toward Peddar Road. This section includes the return climb past Babulnath Temple before descending again toward Marine Drive.The final stretch runs along Marine Drive toward South Mumbai. Runners pass Wankhede Stadium before continuing along the waterfront. The course finishes back near the historic CSMT area, where the race began, completing the full marathon route through Mumbai’s heritage districts, coastline, and modern infrastructure corridors. What's unique? Mumbai is an incredible city. It's hard to find anywhere quite like it. Imagine the thrills of running with no traffic alongside thousands of others, in one of the most insane countries anywhere in the world. The finish area on Marine Drive Do charities benefit? There is an extensive local charity programme, based on those operated some some of the major European and US events. A number of local charities are involved. Our verdict There are not many events like this anywhere in the world. If you're looking for an experience that it will be very difficult to replicate you need to do this one. Somehow the organisers make it work, despite the huge obstacles. How to register Online via the website. It does not sell out yet, but don't leave it too late. Entries are normally available until the end of November. Entries are also available via the charity partners. Race website https://tatamumbaimarathon.procam.in/