City2Surf returns to Sydney on Sunday 8 August 2027, bringing tens of thousands of runners, joggers and walkers together for one of Australia's biggest participation events. The 14km route begins in Sydney's CBD and finishes beside Bondi Beach, passing through some of the city's best known eastern suburbs along the way. Its combination of huge crowds, entertainment, charity fundraising and the notorious Heartbreak Hill makes City2Surf considerably more than a conventional road race. Interest is likely to be high again in 2027. The event reached its 90,000 participant capacity in each of the last three editions, including selling out more than six weeks before race day in 2026. Entries for 2027 have not yet opened, with the organiser currently listing the opening date as TBC. The Destination Sydney provides one of the most recognisable settings for a major running event. The harbour, Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and beaches give visitors plenty to explore before or after City2Surf, while the race itself provides a very different way to experience the city. The finish at Bondi Beach is a major part of the appeal. Bondi is one of Australia's most famous beaches and the surrounding area has restaurants, cafés and coastal walks, making it easy to extend race day into a longer visit. If you are travelling to Sydney specifically for City2Surf, allow enough time to collect your race bib and adjust after your journey. International visitors in particular may want to arrive several days before the event rather than flying in immediately before race weekend. History Of City2Surf City2Surf was inspired by San Francisco's Bay to Breakers. In 1970, a Fairfax correspondent in the United States sent a newspaper clipping about the Californian event to Jack Tier, editor of Sydney newspaper The Sun. Tier and promotions manager Rod Earle subsequently developed the idea for a similar event in Sydney. The first Sun City to Surf took place on 5 September 1971, starting outside Sydney Town Hall on George Street. Just over 2,000 people entered that inaugural race, which was won by American runner Ken Moore. The event moved to the second Sunday in August in 1973 and continued to grow. Increasing numbers eventually led to several changes of start location before the race moved to the area around College Street in 1977. City2Surf has since developed into an enormous mass participation event. The 2024, 2025 and 2026 editions each reached a capacity of 90,000 registered participants, demonstrating the scale and continuing popularity of the race. When Is City2Surf Sydney 2027? The 2027 Voltaren City2Surf takes place on Sunday 8 August. The race covers 14km from Sydney's CBD to Bondi Beach. The organiser currently lists 7.35am as the first start time for the elite group, although runners are divided into several start groups and later waves begin progressively through the morning. Final race day timings should always be checked closer to the event. Some of the detailed schedule information currently published for 2027 is based on the previous edition and may change before race weekend. City2Surf Expo And Race Bib Collection The City2Surf Expo is scheduled to take place at the Hordern Pavilion in Moore Park during the three days before the race. The current schedule lists bib collection from Thursday 5 August until Saturday 7 August 2027. However, the organiser states that the published schedule is based on 2026 information, so treat these timings as provisional until the final 2027 participant information is released. If bib postage is offered when 2027 entries open, there is likely to be a deadline for selecting it. Anyone who does not receive their bib by post should expect to collect it during race week and should factor this into their travel plans. Read more about race expos here Race Morning City2Surf begins beside Hyde Park in central Sydney, with the start around Park Street and College Street. The size of the field means runners are separated into different groups according to factors including expected finishing time and qualifying performance. The faster groups require evidence of previous performance, while later groups accommodate runners, joggers and walkers. Participants should check the final 2027 start group requirements when entries open rather than relying on the arrangements from previous editions. Public transport is likely to be the most practical way to reach the start because extensive road closures operate across Sydney on race morning. Check the final transport and start access information before deciding exactly how and when you will travel. Read more about race day strategy here Thousands of runners gather for the start of City2Surf in Sydney – Photo: Bigal888, via Wikimedia Commons, public domain. City2Surf Course The City2Surf course covers 14km from Hyde Park in central Sydney to Bondi Beach. It is a point to point route that gradually leaves the city behind, crosses Sydney's eastern suburbs and finishes beside the Pacific Ocean. The current course has approximately 221 metres of elevation gain. Heartbreak Hill accounts for the biggest sustained climb, but the elevation profile shows why it is misleading to think of City2Surf as one hill surrounded by flat running. There are repeated changes in elevation during the opening half and more climbing after Heartbreak Hill before the longer descent towards Bondi. Hyde Park And William Street City2Surf starts at the intersection of Park Street and College Street beside Hyde Park. With tens of thousands of participants divided between several start groups, the opening has the scale and atmosphere of a major city event. Once across the start line, runners head along Park Street before turning onto William Street. The road initially drops away from the city centre towards Kings Cross, which can make the opening kilometre feel deceptively easy. It is worth resisting the temptation to use too much energy here. The course becomes progressively more demanding as it moves towards the eastern suburbs, and the major climb does not arrive until around halfway. Kings Cross And Rushcutters Bay The route continues through the Kings Cross Tunnel before emerging and heading towards Rushcutters Bay. Running through the tunnel with thousands of other participants is one of the distinctive experiences of the early part of City2Surf. The terrain also begins to show more of the character that defines the race. City2Surf is rarely completely flat for long, with the road rising and falling as runners make their way east. By Rushcutters Bay, the dense city surroundings of the opening kilometres are beginning to give way to Sydney's eastern suburbs. The course then follows New South Head Road towards Double Bay. Double Bay And Rose Bay Runners continue through Double Bay before reaching Rose Bay at around 5km. This is one of the most scenic parts of the first half, with views across Sydney Harbour and a very different setting from the CBD where the race began. The road follows the curve of Rose Bay, with the harbour alongside the course. On a clear morning there can be views across the water towards some of Sydney's best known landmarks. This is also where the nature of the race begins to change. The opening kilometres are behind you and Heartbreak Hill is approaching, so conserving some energy through this section can pay off considerably over the next few kilometres. Heartbreak Hill Heartbreak Hill is the defining challenge of City2Surf. The climb begins from Rose Bay along New South Head Road at around 6km and continues towards Vaucluse, taking runners towards the highest part of the course around the halfway point. Its reputation can make the hill sound more severe than it is. The challenge comes from the sustained nature of the climb and where it appears in the race rather than an exceptionally steep gradient. Runners who have attacked the opening kilometres can suddenly find themselves paying for that effort. The best approach for most runners is to judge the climb by effort rather than trying to maintain exactly the same pace they were running through Double Bay and Rose Bay. Allow your pace to slow, keep your effort controlled and avoid responding to every runner who passes you. There is some compensation for the climbing. Heartbreak Hill is also one of the most scenic parts of City2Surf, with elevated views back across Sydney Harbour towards the Harbour Bridge and surrounding city. Reaching the top is a significant moment, but do not make the mistake of assuming the difficult part of the course is completely over. Vaucluse And Old South Head Road After Heartbreak Hill, runners continue through Vaucluse and along Old South Head Road. You are now beyond halfway, but the road continues to undulate and there are further rises to negotiate. This can catch runners out. It is easy to spend the whole first half thinking about Heartbreak Hill and expect an uninterrupted downhill run once it has been conquered. The course profile shows several further changes in elevation before the more sustained descent towards Bondi. Vaucluse is also where the character of the route changes again. The harbour sections are giving way to the higher ground between Sydney Harbour and the Pacific coastline, and the race begins to feel increasingly close to the coast. Dover Heights And Military Road The course moves onto Military Road through Dover Heights at around 9 to 10km. This is one of the highest parts of the route and provides another reminder that City2Surf remains demanding after Heartbreak Hill. From here, however, the balance gradually begins to turn in the runner's favour. The route starts its overall descent towards Bondi, and views of the ocean provide the first real sense that the finish is getting closer. The downhill running can be an opportunity to increase your pace if you still feel strong, but it is worth staying controlled. After the earlier climbing, tired legs can make a long descent surprisingly demanding. For runners chasing a time, this is where sensible pacing earlier in the race can begin to pay off. Those who still have energy available can use the generally descending final kilometres rather than simply trying to survive them. North Bondi As runners descend from Dover Heights towards North Bondi, the Pacific Ocean and Bondi Beach begin to dominate the view. It is one of the most memorable transitions on the course and a sharp contrast with the city streets where the race started. By approximately 12km, most of the major climbing is behind you. The course continues towards the beachfront, but there is still enough distance remaining that starting a finishing sprint too early can make the final kilometre uncomfortable. The crowds also become increasingly noticeable as the course approaches Bondi. After the elevated sections around Vaucluse and Dover Heights, the atmosphere builds again as runners close in on the finish. The Finish At Bondi Beach The closing section brings runners into Bondi before completing a turnaround around Curlewis Street. From there, the route heads towards the finish on Queen Elizabeth Drive beside Bondi Beach. The sight of the beach after 14km of running across Sydney is one of the reasons City2Surf has such a distinctive identity. Few major running events offer such a dramatic contrast between their start and finish, moving from a busy city centre to one of the world's most recognisable beaches. Crossing the line is only part of the Bondi experience. Finishers receive their medal before moving into the event village, where thousands of runners, friends and family gather after the race. If you are meeting other people after finishing, agree on a location beforehand rather than relying on being able to find each other near the finish line. Finishing alongside Bondi Beach is a real highlight! How Difficult Is The City2Surf Course? City2Surf is accessible to runners and walkers of a wide range of abilities, but the 14km distance should not disguise how challenging the course can be. The established route has approximately 221 metres of elevation gain. Heartbreak Hill is the biggest sustained climb and deserves its reputation, but the repeated changes in elevation throughout the route are just as important when preparing for the event. The first few kilometres can also encourage runners into pacing mistakes. The descent away from Hyde Park makes it easy to run quickly while feeling comfortable, only for the combination of smaller climbs and Heartbreak Hill to expose an overly ambitious start later. Training exclusively on flat roads is therefore unlikely to provide the best preparation. Include sustained climbs, shorter rolling hills and some controlled downhill running so your legs are accustomed to changing pace and gradient. On race day, an even effort is likely to be more useful than trying to maintain exactly the same pace for every kilometre. Accept some slower running on Heartbreak Hill, stay controlled over the later rises and you may be able to take advantage of the descent towards Bondi. What Makes City2Surf Special? Few running events combine participation on this scale with such a relaxed atmosphere. City2Surf attracts serious runners chasing fast times, but they share the course with recreational runners, charity fundraisers, walkers and people taking part in fancy dress. The journey across Sydney is another major part of its appeal. Beginning among the streets of the CBD before finishing at Bondi Beach gives the race a clear sense of travelling through the city rather than completing laps around a conventional race route. Entertainment and spectators add to the atmosphere throughout the course. For many participants, finishing time is secondary to experiencing the event with friends, raising money for charity or simply completing the journey to Bondi. Is City2Surf A Fast Course? City2Surf attracts high quality elite runners and fast performances at the front of the field, but it is not a course designed around producing conventional road race personal bests. The hills are the obvious reason. With approximately 221 metres of elevation gain over 14km and Heartbreak Hill arriving around halfway, maintaining an even pace throughout the race is difficult. Crowds can also affect runners outside the faster seeded groups. With such a large field, your start group can have a significant influence on how freely you are able to run. If you want to race City2Surf seriously, qualifying for an appropriate start group and training specifically for the hills will be important. For many runners, however, the experience and atmosphere are a bigger attraction than chasing a particular finishing time. Is City2Surf Good For First Time Runners? City2Surf can be an excellent goal for someone progressing beyond 5K or 10K. At 14km, the distance provides a meaningful challenge without requiring the training commitment of a half marathon or marathon. The event's inclusive atmosphere also helps. You do not need to approach City2Surf as a race, with large numbers of participants choosing to jog, walk or combine running and walking. First time participants should still prepare properly for the distance and hills. Building gradually towards longer runs and including some climbing in your training will make race day considerably more enjoyable. How To Enter City2Surf Sydney 2027 Entries for the 2027 City2Surf have not yet opened. The organiser has confirmed the race for Sunday 8 August but currently lists the 2027 entry opening date as TBC. Demand is likely to be substantial. City2Surf reached its 90,000 participant capacity in 2024, 2025 and 2026, with the 2026 race officially selling out by 30 June, more than six weeks before race day. If you want to take part in 2027, it therefore makes sense to watch for the entry announcement rather than assuming places will remain available later in the year. Different start groups may also fill at different times. Faster start groups require qualifying performances. The exact 2027 qualifying standards should be checked when entries open rather than relying on previous years, particularly if securing a faster start is important to you. General entry prices and other 2027 entry conditions have not yet been announced. We will update this guide when the organiser confirms the opening date and full entry details. Running City2Surf For Charity Charity fundraising is a major part of City2Surf. Since fundraising totals began being recorded in 2008, participants have raised more than A$63 million for charities. Runners can fundraise for a participating charity as part of their City2Surf experience. The event has also operated a Charity Superstar programme providing additional benefits for runners who commit to a larger fundraising target. In 2026, Charity Superstars committed to raising A$1,000 for a participating charity and received benefits including free race entry and access to a priority Charity Superstar start wave. The 2027 programme has not yet been confirmed, so check the fundraising requirements and benefits when the new entry details are released. Charity entry could also become particularly relevant if general places sell out again. In 2026, limited Charity Superstar entries remained available after the main event had reached capacity. Read more about applying for charity entries here. Where To Stay Sydney has an enormous choice of accommodation, and the best location will depend on whether you prioritise easy access to the start, the finish or sightseeing during the rest of your visit. Staying in or close to Sydney's CBD makes reaching the Hyde Park start relatively straightforward and puts you close to many of the city's major attractions. Areas around Circular Quay also provide convenient access to the harbour, Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Bondi and the eastern suburbs put you closer to the finish and provide a very different Sydney experience. Staying near Bondi can be particularly appealing if you want to spend time around the beach after the event, although you will need to plan your journey into the city carefully on race morning. With around 90,000 participants in recent editions, booking accommodation well ahead of race weekend is sensible if you are travelling specifically for City2Surf. Compare Sydney accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict City2Surf deserves its reputation as one of the world's great mass participation running events. Few races can match the combination of a huge field, an iconic city, a challenging course and a finish beside one of the world's most famous beaches. The 14km distance makes it accessible to runners who may not yet be ready for a half marathon, while Heartbreak Hill and the undulating eastern suburbs provide enough of a challenge for experienced runners who want to race it seriously. City2Surf returns on Sunday 8 August 2027. Entries have not yet opened, and with the previous three editions reaching their 90,000 participant capacity, anyone hoping to run from Sydney's CBD to Bondi should keep an eye on the entry announcement rather than leaving registration until later. Race Website https://city2surf.com.au/ Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

Round the Bays Auckland returns on Sunday 7 March 2027 for a particularly significant edition of one of New Zealand's best known mass participation running events. The race will celebrate 55 years since the first Round the Bays was held in Auckland in 1972. The 8.4km course takes runners, joggers and walkers from Quay Street in central Auckland along the waterfront to St Heliers. It is a relatively short, flat event designed to appeal to everyone from competitive runners chasing a fast time to families and groups walking the course together. Entries for 2027 are already open, with different pricing periods running through to race weekend if places remain available. For anyone considering travelling to Auckland for the event, here is what to expect from Round the Bays 2027. The Destination Auckland, or Tāmaki Makaurau, is New Zealand's largest city and a natural setting for an event built around the waterfront. The city spreads around the Waitematā and Manukau harbours, with water playing a major part in both its geography and character. Round the Bays gives participants a particularly good introduction to this side of Auckland. After starting close to the city centre, the route follows the waterfront towards St Heliers, with the Waitematā Harbour accompanying runners for much of the journey. If you are visiting from elsewhere in New Zealand or travelling internationally, it is worth allowing some additional time to explore the city. The waterfront, Viaduct Harbour, Wynyard Quarter and central Auckland can all be combined relatively easily, while ferries provide access to destinations including Waiheke Island and Devonport. History Of Round The Bays Auckland Round the Bays has been part of Auckland life since 1972. The inaugural event was held on 17 March that year after Colin Kay and Eric Woods of Auckland Joggers Club developed the idea following inspiration from Sydney's City2Surf. Read more about City2Surf here. Around 700 people took part in that first event, but Round the Bays grew substantially over the decades that followed. It developed into one of New Zealand's biggest participation events, regularly bringing tens of thousands of runners and walkers onto Auckland's waterfront. The basic idea has remained remarkably consistent. This has never been an event aimed only at serious runners, with competitive athletes racing at the front while recreational runners, walkers, families, workplace teams and charity fundraisers make up much of the field behind them. The 2027 edition marks 55 years since that first Auckland event and gives the race an additional sense of occasion. Few participation running events have remained part of the same city's sporting calendar for more than half a century. When Is Round The Bays Auckland 2027? Round the Bays Auckland takes place on Sunday 7 March 2027, with the 8.4km event scheduled to start at 9am from Quay Street. Participants are asked to be at the start by 8.30am, with entertainment, the charity presentation and group warm up beginning from 7.45am. The finishers' festival at Vellenoweth Green in St Heliers is scheduled to begin at 9.45am. Celebrations then continue until 1pm, giving participants time to meet friends and teammates after completing the course. Round The Bays Bib Collection Race bibs must be collected before race day and will not be posted to participants. Bib collection for 2027 takes place at Victory Convention Centre, 98 Beaumont Street, Freemans Bay. Collection opens on Thursday 4 March, initially for corporate teams between 11am and 4pm before opening to all participants from 4pm until 7pm. It is then available from 8am until 7pm on Friday 5 March and from 8am until 4pm on Saturday 6 March. You will need the confirmation email containing your QR code, which is due to be sent during race week. Team managers can collect bibs for their entire team, which can make the process easier for larger workplace and community groups. There will also be an information tent on Britomart Place on race morning, but this should not be treated as an alternative to normal bib collection. The organiser warns that queues may be long, so collecting your bib during the scheduled collection period is the safer option. Race Morning Round the Bays is a point to point event, which means transport deserves some thought before race morning. The start is on Quay Street in central Auckland while the finish is at Vellenoweth Green in St Heliers, so you will not finish where you started. Free event shuttle buses will operate from the finish area at Vellenoweth Green and the hospitality area at Madills Farm to the city between 6.30am and 8am. This gives participants the option of travelling towards the finish area first and using the shuttle to reach the start. Public transport on Auckland Transport bus and rail services is also free for participants on race day when you show your race bib or entry confirmation email. Waitematā/Britomart is close to the start, making public transport one of the simplest ways to reach Quay Street. Gear drop opens on Britomart Place at 7am and closes strictly at 8.30am, with bags transported to the finish for collection after the event. Attach the gear tag from your bib to your bag and check the organiser's restrictions before deciding what to leave. After finishing, free buses run from Long Drive near Vellenoweth Green back to Britomart between 11am and 2pm. Decide how you intend to return before race morning, particularly if you are travelling with other people or have accommodation elsewhere in Auckland. The mass start on Quay Street Round The Bays Auckland Course The Round the Bays Auckland course covers 8.4km from Quay Street in central Auckland to Vellenoweth Green at St Heliers. The organiser has confirmed that the 2027 route will once again take participants from Quay Street along Tāmaki Drive towards St Heliers. The detailed 2027 course map and exact water station locations are still to be published, so individual kilometre points should be checked once the final map becomes available. What is already clear is the character of the course, with the route leaving the central city behind before following Auckland's eastern waterfront beside the Waitematā Harbour. Quay Street And The Start The event begins on Quay Street, close to Auckland's waterfront and the Britomart transport hub. With thousands of people gathering in central Auckland, the opening stages are likely to feel busy even though participants are divided according to expected finishing time. Your race time does not begin until you cross the timing mats, so there is little advantage in pushing forward unnecessarily before the start. Beginning in the appropriate group should give you a better chance of settling into a comfortable rhythm once the field begins to spread out. Tāmaki Drive After leaving the city, the defining feature of Round the Bays is Tāmaki Drive. The waterfront road runs east from central Auckland beside the Waitematā Harbour and provides the setting for most of the journey towards St Heliers. This is what gives Round the Bays much of its distinctive identity. Rather than spending the event weaving through residential streets or repeatedly changing direction, participants follow Auckland's waterfront with open harbour views appearing along the route. The road is also relatively flat, helping to make the event accessible to walkers and new runners while providing faster participants with the opportunity to maintain a consistent rhythm. With only 8.4km to cover, the course can feel very different depending on whether you are racing hard or treating the morning as a social run or walk. Heading along Tamaki Drive Auckland's Eastern Bays The journey along Tāmaki Drive takes participants through Auckland's eastern waterfront, passing the bays and beaches that make this part of the city such a popular place to run, walk and cycle throughout the year. Mission Bay and Kohimarama sit along this stretch of coastline before St Heliers. For visiting runners, this part of the event provides a very different view of Auckland from the central business district encountered around the start. The harbour remains a major feature as the route continues east, helping the course retain its waterfront character almost all the way to the finish. For anyone racing the 8.4km, the relatively uncomplicated route makes pacing easier than on an event containing repeated hills and sharp changes of direction. Recreational runners and walkers can concentrate instead on the atmosphere, waterfront views and entertainment around the course. St Heliers And The Finish The course finishes at Vellenoweth Green in St Heliers, beside the waterfront at the eastern end of the route. Every participant who crosses the finish line receives a finisher's medal before moving into the post event area. The finishers' festival provides food, music, giveaways and sponsor activities, turning St Heliers into the centre of the celebrations after the race. The point to point nature of the course means it is worth deciding in advance how you will leave St Heliers, with free post event buses scheduled to begin running back towards Britomart from Long Drive at 11am. How Difficult Is The Round The Bays Course? Round the Bays is one of the more accessible large running events you are likely to encounter. The organiser describes the 8.4km course as flat, while the distance sits between a traditional 5K and 10K. That makes it achievable for a broad range of participants. Someone who has recently started running can use it as their first organised event, while walkers can complete the course without needing to run at all. For faster runners, the challenge is different. A flat route and relatively short distance create the potential for quick running, but the sheer number and variety of participants mean starting in the correct group is particularly important. Weather can also influence the experience, as early March falls towards the end of summer in Auckland. Check the forecast before race day and adjust your clothing, hydration and pace to suit the conditions rather than assuming the flat course will automatically make the event easy. What Makes Round The Bays Special? Scale is a major part of the attraction. Round the Bays has grown from around 700 participants in 1972 into an event capable of attracting tens of thousands of people onto Auckland's streets. More important than the numbers is the variety of those taking part. Round the Bays deliberately sits somewhere between a road race, community event and enormous waterfront celebration, with elite and competitive runners chasing a time while others jog, walk or take part alongside friends, family and colleagues. The setting also helps distinguish it from many mass participation events. Few major city runs offer such a long stretch beside the water, and the journey from central Auckland towards the eastern bays provides a natural sense of travelling through the city. The 55th anniversary should add another dimension in 2027. For an event that has been part of Auckland's running culture since the early 1970s, it is an opportunity to celebrate both its history and the huge participation community that has developed around it. Is Round The Bays A Fast Course? Round the Bays has the ingredients for fast running, with a flat profile and relatively straightforward waterfront route. Competitive runners should choose the appropriate start group when entering so they begin among participants aiming for a similar finishing time. The Elite Wheelchair/Disability and Elite Runner group is intended for those expecting to finish in under 36 minutes, while the Runner group covers predicted finishing times between 36 and 50 minutes. Joggers expecting to take between 50 and 80 minutes start further back, followed by walkers and non elite wheelchair participants expecting to take more than 80 minutes. Because timing begins when you cross the start line mats, runners further back do not need to worry about the time taken to reach the line after the first participants begin. Starting in the correct group should be more valuable than trying to position yourself further forward than your expected pace justifies. Is Round The Bays Good For First Time Runners? Round the Bays is particularly well suited to first time event participants. The flat course removes one of the difficulties that can make a first race intimidating, while the large number of recreational runners and walkers means there is no expectation that everyone will be trying to run quickly. You can approach the event as a race, a personal challenge or simply an opportunity to complete the distance. If 8.4km is further than you currently run, build towards the distance gradually rather than attempting to complete it without preparation. Being able to cover a similar amount of time on your feet before race day should make the experience considerably more enjoyable. Families are also welcome, with pushchairs and buggies permitted on the course. Participants using them must enter the Walker start group so they begin in the appropriate part of the field. How To Enter Round The Bays Auckland 2027 Entries for Round the Bays Auckland 2027 are open online, with the entry price increasing as race day approaches. Entering earlier therefore gives you access to the lowest available price rather than waiting until the final weeks before the event. The Supersaver entry period runs from 2 to 11 October 2026, with adult places costing NZ$35 and places for children aged 5 to 15 costing NZ$18. Early Bird entry then runs from 12 October to 8 November at NZ$40 for adults and NZ$20 for children. Standard entry runs from 9 November until 21 February 2027 and costs NZ$50 for adults and NZ$25 for children. Late entry between 22 February and 6 March costs NZ$65 for adults and NZ$29 for children. If places remain, on the day entry is scheduled to cost NZ$75 for adults and NZ$35 for children. Children aged four and under can enter free throughout the entry periods but still need to be registered if they are taking part. Entry includes your race bib and timing chip, finisher's medal and certificate, course support, access to the finishers' festival and free event shuttle buses. Check the organiser's current entry terms before registering, particularly if you are travelling to Auckland specifically for the event. Entries are not refundable, but if you can no longer take part, the organiser allows entries to be transferred to another person through the Race Roster participant dashboard. A NZ$20 transfer fee applies, plus credit card fees, so use the official transfer process rather than simply giving your bib to someone else. Running Round The Bays For Charity Fundraising has long been part of Round the Bays and participants can use their 2027 event to support a cause that matters to them. At the time of writing, the official 2027 Charity Partner has not yet been announced, so check the event website for the latest information as race day approaches. Deaf Aotearoa has been announced as the Accessibility Partner for 2027, while participants can also raise money for other causes rather than being restricted to a single charity. The accessible distance and large number of teams make Round the Bays particularly suitable for groups, workplaces and families who want to combine taking part with a fundraising challenge. If you decide to fundraise, setting up your page well before March gives you more time to tell people why you are taking part and build support before race day. Where To Stay If you are travelling to Auckland for Round the Bays, staying in or close to the city centre makes race morning relatively straightforward. Britomart is close to the Quay Street start and provides useful public transport connections. The Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter are also convenient options if you want to combine easy access to the start with restaurants and Auckland's waterfront. Staying centrally also makes it easier to explore the city before or after the event without needing to rely heavily on a car. Another option is to stay further east around Mission Bay or St Heliers, closer to the finish. If you choose this approach, the free pre race shuttle from the finish area to the city can help with the point to point logistics. Whichever area you choose, check the race morning transport arrangements before booking. Road closures and the size of the event mean convenience on a normal Sunday morning does not necessarily translate directly to race day. Compare Auckland accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict Round the Bays is very different from a conventional road race, and that is a large part of its appeal. The 8.4km distance, flat waterfront course and enormous range of participants make it accessible without taking away the opportunity for faster runners to race seriously. For visitors, the route also provides an excellent introduction to Auckland. Starting in the central city and following Tāmaki Drive beside the Waitematā Harbour towards St Heliers gives the event a strong sense of place rather than simply providing a closed road on which to run. The 2027 edition should be particularly memorable as Round the Bays celebrates its 55th anniversary. More than half a century after around 700 people gathered for the first event, it has developed into one of New Zealand's most established participation running traditions and remains an event that almost anyone can be part of. Race Website https://www.roundthebays.co.nz/auckland Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Chicago Marathon is one of the Abbott World Marathon Majors and one of the world’s most popular races for runners chasing a personal best. Its flat course starts and finishes in Grant Park and takes runners through 29 neighbourhoods, with huge crowds providing support along the way. The 2027 race takes place on Sunday 10 October. Whether you are hoping for a place through the drawing, considering a charity entry or planning another Major, it is worth understanding the entry process well before you book your trip. Here is everything you need to know about running the Chicago Marathon in 2027. The Destination Chicago sits on the shore of Lake Michigan and offers far more than a fast marathon course. Its skyline, architecture, museums and neighbourhoods make it a destination worth exploring before or after race day. Downtown sights include Millennium Park and Cloud Gate, the Art Institute of Chicago and the Chicago River. An architecture boat tour is a popular way to see the city without spending hours on your feet before the marathon, while runners with more time can explore neighbourhoods beyond the centre. Grant Park’s central location makes staying downtown attractive, particularly if you want to walk to the start. Hotels close to the park may be expensive during race weekend, so compare the convenience of a shorter race morning journey with the cost of accommodation farther away. History Of The Chicago Marathon The modern Chicago Marathon began in 1977 and has grown into one of the world’s largest marathons. It now attracts runners from across the United States and around the world, from first time marathoners to some of the fastest athletes in the sport. The race has become particularly associated with record breaking performances. In 2023, Kelvin Kiptum ran 2:00:35 in Chicago to set a men’s marathon world record, underlining the potential of its flat course in favourable conditions. Chicago’s history is about more than elite times, though. The race’s route through the city and the scale of its spectator support have made it an experience that appeals just as much to runners whose goal is simply to reach the finish. Who Organises The Chicago Marathon? The event is the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, with Bank of America as its title sponsor. Runners should use the official Chicago Marathon website for applications, race instructions and the final details of the 2027 event. When Is The Chicago Marathon 2027? The 49th Chicago Marathon takes place on Sunday 10 October 2027. The event is traditionally held on the second Sunday in October, making it an autumn goal for runners whose main training block falls during the summer. Applications for the drawing and most guaranteed entry routes open at 8am US Central Time on Thursday 8 October 2026 and close at 2pm US Central Time on Thursday 29 October 2026. Drawing applicants are due to receive their results on Tuesday 8 December 2026. Abbott Health & Fitness Expo All marathon runners must collect their own race packet at the Abbott Health & Fitness Expo. You will need government-issued photo identification that matches the name used for your registration, so packet collection is something to include in your travel plans rather than leaving to somebody else. The expo has previously been held at McCormick Place over three days and includes running brands, event merchandise and other race weekend activities. Check the final 2027 venue and opening hours before booking flights or arranging your arrival, as those details have not yet been confirmed for this edition. Allow enough time to collect your packet without turning the day before the marathon into a long sightseeing trip. Once the administration is done, you can concentrate on preparing for the start. Read more about running event expos here. Chicago Marathon runners cross the Chicago River on the Columbus Drive Bridge during the opening miles of the race. Race Morning The Chicago Marathon starts in Grant Park, with runners assigned to start areas and corrals according to the event’s arrangements. Although the start and finish are in the same park, it is important to check the entrance specified in your final race instructions rather than assuming you can approach from any direction. Plan your route from your accommodation in advance and allow time for security, toilets and finding your corral. The excitement of a Major can make race morning feel busy even when you are well prepared, so completing those decisions beforehand will make the start more relaxed. The final 2027 participant guide will confirm the start times, entrances and other arrangements. Use that guide as your authority when planning the morning itself. Chicago Marathon Course The Chicago Marathon starts and finishes in Grant Park and takes runners on a loop through 29 neighbourhoods. Its predominantly flat profile is one of the main reasons runners choose Chicago when aiming for a personal best. The organiser notes that the course map can change, so the final 2027 map should take priority when planning spectator locations or studying particular streets. The established route still gives runners a useful picture of how the race unfolds. The Start And Opening Miles The Chicago Marathon starts on Columbus Drive in Grant Park before immediately taking runners into the centre of the city. The opening miles weave through downtown Chicago, crossing the Chicago River and passing between some of the city's distinctive skyscrapers before the course begins its longer journey north. This is an exciting start to the marathon, with tall buildings, large crowds and plenty happening around you. GPS reception can be unreliable among the downtown buildings, so do not be surprised if the instantaneous pace or distance on your watch looks different from the official markers. Settle into your planned effort rather than trying to correct every early split. After the initial downtown section, runners head north on LaSalle Street before moving towards Lincoln Park. By around miles five and six, the skyscrapers are beginning to give way to a different side of Chicago. Lincoln Park, Lake View And The Northern Turn The northern section provides a noticeable change from downtown Chicago. Runners travel through Lincoln Park before continuing towards Lake View and the northernmost part of the course. This part of the marathon is known for enthusiastic support. The area around Wrigleyville comes at roughly eight miles, while the surrounding neighbourhoods provide a lively backdrop as runners approach the northern turn. After reaching the top of the course, the route begins heading south again. You are still well inside the first half of the marathon here, so resist the temptation to increase your effort simply because the field has opened up and running feels easier. Back Towards Downtown And Halfway The route returns south through Chicago's North Side before approaching the centre of the city again. This creates one of the interesting features of the course: runners encounter downtown Chicago more than once rather than simply leaving the centre and returning for the finish. The halfway point arrives as the course begins transitioning towards the western half of the race. Chicago is famous for being flat and fast, but that does not mean it is an uninterrupted straight course. There are numerous turns, changes of direction and river crossings, so running efficiently rather than weaving unnecessarily can still make a difference over 26.2 miles. Greektown, The West Side And Little Italy After halfway, the marathon heads west towards Greektown and the Near West Side. Greektown arrives at around mile 14 before runners continue deeper into the western section of the course. The route then travels through areas including the Illinois Medical District, University Village and Little Italy before beginning to turn south. This section covers some important middle miles of the marathon, when maintaining your planned pacing and fuelling becomes increasingly important. It can be a deceptive stage of the race. You have passed halfway and may still feel strong, but there is a considerable distance remaining. Chicago rewards runners who remain patient here rather than treating halfway as the signal to start pushing. Pilsen And The Approach To Chinatown Pilsen arrives at around mile 19 and is one of the most memorable sections of the Chicago Marathon. Strong local support and a very different streetscape provide a lift just as runners approach the point where the marathon often begins to feel considerably harder. From Pilsen, the course continues east towards Chinatown. Runners reach the Chinatown area at approximately mile 21.5, passing through another neighbourhood closely associated with the race. The crowds can be particularly valuable here because you are beyond 20 miles but still have several miles remaining. Breaking the remaining distance into individual mile markers can make this section feel much more manageable. Chinatown, Bronzeville And The Southern Turn After Chinatown, runners continue south along Wentworth Avenue before the route reaches 26th Street and heads towards Michigan Avenue. The course then continues south into the Bronzeville area, with runners reaching the vicinity of 35th Street at around miles 23 to 23.5. This can be one of the psychologically toughest parts of Chicago. You have already run more than 20 miles but are still travelling south, temporarily away from Grant Park. Knowing the shape of the course beforehand can help because the final major change of direction is getting close. After the southern turn, runners begin the long journey north towards the centre of Chicago and the finish. Michigan Avenue And The Final Miles Much of the closing section is run north along Michigan Avenue. After the frequent changes of direction earlier in the race, this long final run towards downtown gives you a much clearer sense that the finish is getting closer. At 26 miles comes one of the course's most famous features. Runners turn onto Roosevelt Road and encounter a short rise before making the final turn onto Columbus Drive. On a course renowned for being flat, that small climb can feel considerably larger after almost an entire marathon. Once you turn onto Columbus Drive, the finish in Grant Park is close. Keep running through the final stretch before crossing the line and entering the designated runner area. If you are meeting friends or family afterwards, agree on a meeting point in advance. With tens of thousands of runners and spectators around Grant Park, expecting to find each other immediately outside the finish can make the end of race day unnecessarily difficult. How Difficult Is The Chicago Marathon Course? Chicago is relatively approachable from an elevation perspective. There are no long climbs to prepare for, and the largely flat roads make it easier to aim for a steady effort than on a hilly marathon course. That does not make running a marathon easy. The distance, possible wind or warmer than expected weather, and the temptation to start too quickly can all make the later miles demanding. A good result still depends on appropriate training, pacing and a nutrition plan you have practised. The organiser states a course time limit of six hours and 30 minutes, equivalent to approximately 15 minutes per mile. Roads reopen on a rolling basis, so runners who fall behind that pace may no longer receive full course support. Chicago Marathon runners near Grant Park What Makes The Chicago Marathon Special? Chicago combines the scale and excitement of a World Marathon Major with a course that gives runners a genuine opportunity to run well. The journey through 29 neighbourhoods means the race feels like an exploration of the city rather than a simple tour of downtown landmarks. The start and finish in Grant Park are another attraction, especially for runners planning where to stay and supporters deciding where to meet afterwards. Add the enormous crowds, and Chicago offers an atmosphere that extends across the full 26.2 miles. Read more about the World Marathon Majors here. Is The Chicago Marathon A Fast Course? Yes. Chicago is widely regarded as a fast marathon, and the performances achieved there support that reputation. Its flat profile gives runners the chance to establish a rhythm without repeatedly adjusting their effort for hills. A fast course is an opportunity rather than a promise of a personal best. Wind, temperature, congestion and an overambitious opening pace can all affect your race, so the best approach is still to prepare thoroughly and run the first half with discipline. Is The Chicago Marathon Good For First Time Runners? Chicago can be an excellent first marathon for a runner who has prepared for the distance. The course does not demand extensive hill training, and the crowds provide encouragement long after the excitement of the opening miles has passed. The size of the event does require more planning than a small local race. First time runners should pay particular attention to expo collection, their assigned start entrance, race morning timing and where they will meet supporters afterwards. How To Enter The Chicago Marathon 2027 Applications for the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon open at 8:00am Central Time on Thursday 8 October 2026 and close at 2:00pm Central Time on Thursday 29 October. Runners can apply through either the non-guaranteed drawing or one of the race’s guaranteed entry routes. There is no charge to enter the drawing and applying early does not improve your chances. Applicants will receive their result by email on Tuesday 8 December. Anyone selected must pay the entry fee and complete their registration by 11:59pm Central Time on Tuesday 15 December or the place will be lost. Entry costs $250 for US residents and $260 for runners living outside the United States. The organisers do not take payment when a runner submits a drawing application, with the fee becoming payable only after a place has been offered. Guaranteed entry routes include meeting the age group qualifying standard, completing at least five Chicago Marathons during the previous ten years, qualifying through the Bank of America Chicago Distance Series or entering through an official charity or tour operator. Eligible runners who cancelled a 2026 place may also apply under the race’s cancellation rules. Qualifying times must come from a certified marathon completed between 1 January 2025 and 29 October 2026. Half marathon and ultramarathon results are not accepted, and every time must be supported by an official result or finisher certificate. Runners who receive a place but cannot participate may cancel by 6 October 2027 and obtain guaranteed entry for 2028. The original payment will not be refunded or carried forward, and another entry fee will be payable. Entries cannot be transferred or sold, although separate provisions apply during pregnancy and after giving birth. Run The Chicago Marathon For Charity Running for an official charity provides guaranteed entry without relying on the drawing. Charity places are offered on a first come, first served basis and can remain available until 10 September 2027, although individual organisations may fill their teams considerably earlier. Each charity sets its own application process, runner benefits and fundraising target, but the event requires charity runners to raise at least $2,500. Some organisations may therefore set a higher minimum commitment, so runners should check the full conditions before accepting a place. Only organisations included in the official Chicago Marathon Charity Program can provide guaranteed charity places, and runners should apply directly through their chosen charity. Runners who secure a place through the drawing or another entry route can still support a charity using their own place. They should contact the organisation directly to ask about joining its team without requiring one of its guaranteed entries. Read more about choosing a charity entry here. Where To Stay Chicago has a huge hotel market, but marathon weekend creates considerable demand. The Loop is particularly convenient for runners who want to stay centrally, while areas such as River North and Streeterville provide plenty of hotels, restaurants and easy access to the city's attractions. Staying downtown can also make it easier to explore Chicago without relying heavily on transport during your visit. Accommodation close to the heart of the city can become expensive around the marathon, so booking early is worthwhile. If you find better value further out, look for somewhere with straightforward CTA train connections and check your race-morning journey before confirming your hotel. Compare Chicago Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict Chicago offers a combination that is difficult to match: a major international race, an exceptionally supportive city and a course on which well-prepared runners can pursue ambitious goals. The changing neighbourhoods give the marathon its character, while Grant Park provides a memorable start and finish. It is a strong choice whether you are chasing a personal best, running your first marathon, raising money for charity or working towards another World Marathon Major finish. The first challenge is securing your place, so pay close attention to the 2027 application window and the conditions attached to your preferred entry route. Race Website https://www.chicagomarathon.com/ Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Berlin Marathon is one of the most sought after races in the world. Its flat course has produced extraordinary performances, but the appeal goes well beyond fast times. Runners travel to Germany’s capital for the atmosphere, the journey through the city and the final stretch through the Brandenburg Gate. Getting a place takes planning. The race uses a lottery for general entries, while official charity partners and authorised tour operators offer other routes. Race weekend also involves an expo visit and a large wave start, so it helps to understand the practical details before booking a trip. The Destination Berlin is a city that rewards a longer visit. The Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag are close to the marathon’s start and finish area, while the Berlin Wall Memorial, Museum Island and the city’s many neighbourhoods offer plenty to explore after the race. Its size can be deceptive when choosing accommodation. A hotel described as being in central Berlin may still be some distance from the start, so check the public transport route as well as the map. Staying somewhere that makes race morning straightforward can be particularly valuable if you are travelling from abroad. You will probably want to see as much of the city as possible, but save the longest sightseeing days until after the marathon. Berlin’s museums, parks and historic sites will still be there once you have crossed the finish line. History Of The Berlin Marathon The first Berlin Marathon took place in 1974. As the event grew, the city’s changing history became part of the race’s identity. The marathon was once confined to West Berlin, but its route now carries runners through a reunified city. Berlin has also become closely associated with marathon records. Eliud Kipchoge ran 2:01:09 here in 2022, and Tigst Assefa ran 2:11:53 in 2023. Those performances helped establish Berlin as a race where the world’s best runners arrive believing they can achieve something exceptional. That reputation attracts runners throughout the field. Some arrive with a precise time goal, while others simply want to experience one of the great city marathons and enjoy every kilometre. Who Organises The Berlin Marathon? The Berlin Marathon is organised by SCC Events, which also organises the Berlin Half Marathon. The race now has a new title sponsor. Generali has replaced BMW, with the event now officially known as the Generali Berlin Marathon. It is part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors. For runners working through the Majors, Berlin offers both a significant challenge in securing an entry and a particularly memorable race once they get there. When Is The Berlin Marathon 2027? The race is confirmed for Sunday September 26 2027. September can bring good running conditions, but the weather is never guaranteed. Prepare for the possibility of a warmer day as well as the cooler conditions for which Berlin is often known. Berlin Marathon Expo Runners collect their race materials at the marathon expo before race day. For 2026, collection takes place at the former Tempelhof Airport and must be done in person. The organiser asks runners to bring a photo ID and their start card, which is issued shortly before the event. The 2026 expo runs from Thursday to Saturday. Its location, hours and collection rules should be checked again when the 2027 instructions are released. If you are flying into Berlin, leave enough time for travel delays and the journey to the expo. Your visit is also a chance to settle some of the practical details before Sunday. Collect your bib, check your starting block and read the final race instructions while there is still time to resolve a problem. Read more about race expos here. Race Morning For 2026, the marathon starts on Straße des 17. Juni, between the Brandenburg Gate and Kleiner Stern. Runners set off in six waves, beginning at 8:45am. The start and finish are in the same general area, although reaching your assigned entrance and starting block still takes time. The current arrangements require runners to have both their official bib and the wristband fitted at race material collection to enter the event site. Your bib identifies your starting block, so check it before race morning and follow the access instructions issued for your wave. Public transport is likely to be the simplest way to reach the area, but allow for crowds and any changes to services. The 2026 entry includes public transport for a specified period; whether the same benefit applies in 2027 remains to be confirmed. With such a large field, give yourself time for the journey, security, toilets and the walk to your block. Check the final 2027 instructions for entrance points, wave times and baggage arrangements, even if you have run Berlin before. Berlin Marathon Course The Berlin Marathon follows a single loop through the German capital, beginning and ending on Straße des 17. Juni. The current route passes through several contrasting parts of Berlin, from the government district and the broad avenues of the city centre to residential neighbourhoods in the south and west. Its reputation for speed comes from more than its relatively flat elevation profile. Much of the race uses broad roads where runners can establish a consistent rhythm, while there are no major climbs capable of disrupting an otherwise well paced race. The precise route can change, so the official 2027 course map should take priority when it is released. The current course provides a clear indication of the journey runners can expect. The Start And Victory Column The race starts on Straße des 17. Juni between the Brandenburg Gate and Kleiner Stern. Runners initially head west through the Tiergarten towards the Victory Column, which appears within the opening kilometre and provides one of the first major landmarks. The scale of the road creates an impressive start, but the opening kilometres can still feel busy. Let the field spread out rather than wasting energy weaving around other runners, particularly if you are chasing a specific time. After passing the Victory Column, the route continues towards Ernst Reuter Platz before turning through Charlottenburg. These early roads are flat and fast, making it easy to begin more quickly than planned. Moabit And The Government District The route moves through Moabit before returning towards central Berlin. At around 6.5 kilometres, runners approach the government district and pass close to the Federal Chancellery and Reichstag. This part of the course brings runners back near the start and finish area, but there is still most of the marathon to complete. Seeing the Brandenburg Gate relatively early can be deceptive because runners will not pass through it until the closing stages. The route continues through Mitte and passes close to Friedrichstadt Palast at around eight kilometres. The roads remain largely flat, allowing runners to settle into the pace they hope to maintain through the first half. Mitte And Friedrichshain From central Berlin, runners continue east towards Friedrichshain. The course reaches Karl Marx Allee and Strausberger Platz, where the broad roads and distinctive architecture create another memorable section. The field should be more settled by this point, making it easier to find space and maintain a consistent pace. The route through Friedrichshain also demonstrates how widely the marathon travels across Berlin rather than remaining around its most famous central landmarks. After Strausberger Platz, the course turns south through roads including Lichtenberger Straße and Heinrich Heine Straße. It then heads towards Kreuzberg and Neukölln for one of the liveliest parts of the race. Kreuzberg And Neukölln The route takes runners through Moritzplatz, Kottbusser Tor and along Kottbusser Damm towards Hermannplatz at approximately 16 kilometres. These are lively parts of Berlin where spectators, music and densely packed streets can create some of the strongest atmosphere on the course. From Hermannplatz, runners pass alongside Hasenheide before continuing through Südstern and onto Gneisenaustraße. The excitement of the opening kilometres may be beginning to fade, so this is a good time to concentrate on maintaining your effort and following the fuelling plan practised during training. The course remains flat, but there are several changes of direction as it connects the different neighbourhoods. Following the blue line marking the measured route can help you avoid adding unnecessary distance. Halfway And Schöneberg The course continues through Yorckstraße before entering Schöneberg. Runners pass the halfway point before reaching Grunewaldstraße at approximately 22.5 kilometres and then continue along Martin Luther Straße towards Rathaus Schöneberg. This is an important point in the race. The flat course may still feel manageable, but there is a long way to go and runners should avoid increasing their effort too early. After Rathaus Schöneberg, the route travels farther south and west through Friedenau. These more residential neighbourhoods provide a contrast with the broad avenues and famous landmarks encountered earlier. Friedenau And The Southwestern Section The route continues through Friedenau and into the southwestern part of Berlin. Although this section contains fewer internationally recognisable landmarks, it remains an important part of the runner journey and takes the race through neighbourhoods that many visitors would not otherwise explore. Runners reach Platz am Wilden Eber at around 28.5 kilometres. This is where the marathon often begins to feel substantially harder, despite the absence of any major hill. Pacing becomes particularly important from this point. Runners who controlled the opening half can begin to make use of Berlin’s fast profile, while anyone who started too quickly may find the long roads increasingly difficult. Wilmersdorf And Kurfürstendamm The route begins turning back towards the city centre through Wilmersdorf. Runners pass Olivaer Platz shortly after 33 kilometres before reaching Kurfürstendamm, one of Berlin’s best known streets. The Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church appears at approximately 35 kilometres. Its damaged tower is one of the course’s most recognisable sights and signals that runners are entering the final major section of the race. The roads through this part of western Berlin are well suited to maintaining momentum, but the distance will now be making itself felt. Focus on reaching the next landmark rather than thinking about every remaining kilometre at once. Potsdamer Platz And Central Berlin Runners continue through Wittenbergplatz and along roads including Kleiststraße and Potsdamer Straße. Potsdamer Platz arrives at approximately 38.5 kilometres, leaving less than four kilometres to the finish. This is one of the most encouraging points on the course because the central Berlin landmarks begin to appear more frequently. The route continues along Leipziger Straße and passes close to Gendarmenmarkt as it approaches the final kilometres. Although Berlin is famous for its flat course, this section is never easy. The opportunity to run quickly remains, but only if you have managed your pace, nutrition and energy carefully through the preceding 38 kilometres. Unter Den Linden And The Brandenburg Gate The final approach brings runners onto Unter den Linden at around 41 kilometres. From here, the Brandenburg Gate provides a visible target and the crowds become increasingly loud as the course reaches its most famous moment. Passing through the Brandenburg Gate is not the finish. The finish line is farther along Straße des 17. Juni, so runners need to keep going after passing through the columns. That final stretch is one of the defining experiences of the Berlin Marathon. Whether you are completing your first marathon, chasing a personal best or working towards the World Marathon Majors, the combination of the gate, crowds and finish line makes it an unforgettable finish. What a start! How Difficult Is The Berlin Marathon Course? Berlin is a good choice if hills are a concern. Its flat profile removes one challenge that can make other city marathons difficult to pace, and it gives runners a genuine opportunity to run an even race. The marathon distance remains demanding. A crowded start, an overambitious pace, changing weather or problems with fuelling can make the final kilometres difficult on the flattest of courses. For the 2026 race, the organiser states a time limit of 6 hours 15 minutes from crossing the start line, as well as a cut off point at kilometre 33. Anyone expecting to be close to the limit should check the 2027 rules before entering, because both the limit and the intermediate cut off could change. What Makes The Berlin Marathon Special? Berlin brings together a remarkable range of runners. Elite athletes come because the course gives them a chance to make history, while thousands of others are pursuing their first marathon, a personal best, a charity target or another World Marathon Major. The city adds meaning to the route. Running towards the Brandenburg Gate after crossing neighbourhoods shaped by Berlin’s history gives the finish a character that is difficult to reproduce elsewhere. Its scale is part of the experience too. Race morning takes planning, but being surrounded by runners from around the world creates a sense of occasion from the start to the final straight. Is Berlin Marathon A Fast Course? Yes. Berlin’s flat profile and record breaking history make it one of the strongest options for runners targeting a fast marathon. The presence of many runners with similar goals can also help you find a steady rhythm once the field opens up. A fast course does not guarantee a fast result. Conditions on the day, sensible pacing and the training you have completed will determine how much of the opportunity you can use. If a personal best is your aim, plan to run the first half with control. Berlin gives you plenty of road on which to make progress later if you still feel strong. Is Berlin Marathon Good For First Time Runners? Berlin can be an excellent first marathon if you are comfortable with a very large event. The relatively flat course allows you to focus on covering the distance without preparing for substantial hills. The logistics need attention. You must secure an entry, collect your race materials, reach the correct entrance and understand your starting block. Work through those steps before race weekend so that the scale of the event feels exciting rather than overwhelming. First time runners should also read the eventual 2027 time limit and cut off rules carefully. Choose a realistic training and pacing plan based on the full marathon distance, rather than assuming the flat course will make the final kilometres easy. How To Enter The Berlin Marathon 2027 Entry for the 2027 Berlin Marathon is primarily through a lottery. Registration opened on 1 October 2026 and closes on 12 November 2026, with the lottery results due to be announced by email on 3 December 2026. Runners need to create a personal user account on the official Generali Berlin Marathon website before registering. You can enter the lottery as an individual or as part of a team of two or three people. Team members enter using the same team code and, if the team is successful in the lottery, every member receives a place. The entry fee for the 2027 marathon is €215. You are not charged when you enter the lottery. If you are successful, payment is taken after the draw, with payments due to begin from 4 December 2026. Entry is personal and cannot be transferred to another runner or deferred to another year under the standard entry conditions. Fast runners can also apply using a qualifying marathon time achieved during 2025 or 2026. The qualifying standards vary according to age and gender, and runners must upload acceptable proof during registration. Applying as a fast runner does not automatically guarantee a place, and runners whose evidence is not accepted are moved into the general lottery. There are also several routes to a guaranteed entry. These include eligible members of the Berlin Marathon Jubilee Club and certain runners holding a voucher from the previous year. International runners may also be able to secure guaranteed entry through an official tour operator, with packages generally combining the race place with travel or accommodation. If you want to run Berlin in 2027, the most important date is 12 November 2026. Enter the lottery before the deadline rather than waiting for the result to explore other options, as official tour operators can provide another route if your lottery application is unsuccessful. Read more about securing an entry from a tour operator here. Running The Berlin Marathon For Charity The Berlin Marathon has official charity partners that offer guaranteed race entries to runners who take on a fundraising commitment. This can be an appealing option if you have a cause you care about, whether or not you have missed out in the public lottery. Check each charity’s requirements before applying. Fundraising targets, registration costs and support can differ. Give supporters a reason to follow the whole journey. Explain why you chose the charity, share your training honestly and keep people involved as race day approaches. The challenge of reaching Berlin’s start line can become a meaningful part of your fundraising story. Read more about applying for a charity entry here. Where To Stay Berlin is a large city, so where you stay can make a noticeable difference to your marathon weekend. The start and finish are around the Tiergarten and Brandenburg Gate area, making Mitte and the areas around Tiergarten particularly convenient if you want to minimise travelling on race morning and have a relatively straightforward journey back after finishing. You do not need to stay beside the course, though. Berlin has an extensive public transport network, so areas with good U-Bahn or S-Bahn connections can give you a much wider choice of accommodation. Marathon weekend attracts runners from around the world, so book early and check your route to the start before choosing a hotel purely on price. Compare Berlin Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict Berlin earns its place among the world’s great marathons. The course offers a real opportunity to run well, but the experience is just as rewarding for someone whose goal is simply to finish. The start near the Brandenburg Gate, the journey across the city and the return through the gate give the race a beginning and ending that stay with runners. Berlin itself provides plenty of reasons to turn the marathon into a longer trip. Read more about the World Marathon Majors here. Race Website https://www.generali-berlin-marathon.com/ Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

Every November, thousands of runners descend on one of America's most historic cities for one of the country's largest running festivals. The Philadelphia Marathon Weekend combines fast city streets, scenic riverside running, historic landmarks and outstanding crowd support across a packed weekend of racing. Whether you are tackling your first marathon, chasing a personal best or taking on one of the popular challenge events, Philadelphia offers an unforgettable race experience. Unlike some of the larger World Marathon Majors, the Philadelphia Marathon has a more relaxed atmosphere while still delivering big city excitement. The course showcases many of the city's best-known attractions before following the picturesque Schuylkill River through Fairmount Park and the lively neighbourhood of Manayunk. The finish outside the famous Philadelphia Museum of Art, overlooked by the iconic Rocky Steps, is one of the most memorable marathon finishes in North America. The Destination Philadelphia is one of the most important cities in American history and offers far more than many international visitors expect. Located in Pennsylvania, around two hours south west of New York City by train, it combines world famous historical attractions with excellent restaurants, lively neighbourhoods and an impressive waterfront. The city was the birthplace of American independence. Independence Hall, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was where both the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were debated and signed. Nearby stands the Liberty Bell, one of America's most recognisable national symbols and an attraction visited by millions every year. Philadelphia is also renowned for its museums, theatres and public art. The Philadelphia Museum of Art dominates the finish area of the marathon and is famous worldwide thanks to the Rocky films. Every day visitors recreate Rocky Balboa's victorious run by climbing the museum steps before raising their arms at the summit while looking across Benjamin Franklin Parkway towards the city skyline. Food is another major attraction. Reading Terminal Market is one of America's oldest and best indoor food markets, offering everything from fresh local produce to traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dishes. Of course, no visit to Philadelphia would be complete without sampling an authentic Philly cheesesteak, with several famous establishments claiming to serve the city's best version. For runners spending several days in the city, there is plenty to explore. LOVE Park, Elfreth's Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in America, the Franklin Institute, Eastern State Penitentiary and Philadelphia Zoo all make excellent additions to a marathon weekend itinerary. One of the biggest advantages of visiting Philadelphia is how walkable the city is. Many hotels, tourist attractions, restaurants and race weekend venues are located within easy walking distance of one another, making race weekend logistics straightforward for both runners and supporters. The History Of The Philadelphia Marathon The Philadelphia Marathon has a longer history than many runners realise. The city's first marathon was held in 1954, although the event has evolved considerably over the decades. The modern Philadelphia Marathon was established in 1994 when the race was redesigned to showcase the city itself rather than the surrounding metropolitan area. Since then it has grown into one of America's premier marathon weekends, attracting runners from across the United States and around the world. Additional events have gradually been added to create a full weekend festival. The Rothman Orthopaedics 8K joined the programme in the mid 1990s, while the half marathon was introduced in 2006. In 2016 the organisers moved to the current two day format, with the half marathon and 8K taking place on Saturday before the full marathon on Sunday. This schedule allows runners to complete one of several popular challenge events by racing across both days. These challenges have become a defining feature of Philadelphia Marathon Weekend and attract thousands of returning participants each year. Today, more than 30,000 runners take part across all events, making Philadelphia Marathon Weekend one of the largest running festivals in the United States while retaining a friendly atmosphere that appeals to first timers and experienced marathon runners alike. Philadelphia Marathon Weekend Philadelphia Marathon Weekend has developed into far more than simply a marathon. It is now a celebration of running that caters for every ability, from children completing their first organised event through to experienced marathon runners chasing Boston Marathon qualifying times. The weekend includes four race distances alongside a series of challenge events that encourage runners to compete on both Saturday and Sunday. Whether you are travelling with family, friends or a running club, there is usually an event suitable for everyone. The combination of historic streets, wide boulevards, scenic parkland and enthusiastic local support creates an atmosphere that many runners describe as one of the friendliest marathon weekends in America. Volunteers play a huge role throughout the event, while spectators line many of the busiest sections of the course to encourage runners from start to finish. Another attraction is the timing. Held in late November, the race benefits from cool autumn temperatures that are often ideal for marathon running. Crisp mornings, colourful autumn leaves and comfortable racing conditions have helped establish Philadelphia as an excellent late season marathon for runners aiming to finish their year on a high. When Is The Philadelphia Marathon 2026? The 2026 Philadelphia Marathon Weekend takes place on Saturday 21 November and Sunday 22 November 2026. Saturday features the Half Marathon, the 8K and the children's events, while the full Philadelphia Marathon takes place on Sunday morning. Most races begin around 7.00 am, allowing runners to enjoy cool conditions before larger crowds gather later in the morning. Race weekend traditionally begins on the Friday with the Health and Fitness Expo, where all participants collect their race bibs and explore the latest running products, nutrition and official event merchandise. One of the reasons Philadelphia Marathon Weekend attracts so many returning runners is the variety of events available. Whether you are aiming to complete your first organised race or looking for an extra challenge, there is an option to suit almost every ability. The weekend includes the Philadelphia Marathon, the Half Marathon, the Rothman Orthopaedics 8K and a series of children's events. Thousands of runners also take part in one of the multi race challenges, completing events on both Saturday and Sunday to earn an additional challenge medal. The Patriot Challenge combines the Half Marathon and the 8K on Saturday, while the Independence Challenge consists of the 8K on Saturday followed by the Marathon on Sunday. The popular Liberty Bell Challenge requires runners to complete the Half Marathon on Saturday before returning for the full Marathon the following morning, covering more than 39 miles across the weekend. The toughest option is the Freedom Challenge, which combines all three races over the two days for an unforgettable endurance test. These challenge events have become one of the defining features of Philadelphia Marathon Weekend and attract runners from across the United States looking for something beyond a traditional marathon. The Health And Fitness Expo Every participant must collect their race bib in person at the Philadelphia Marathon Health and Fitness Expo, held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in the heart of the city. Race numbers are not posted, so attending the expo is an essential part of race weekend. The expo normally opens on the Friday before race weekend and continues throughout Saturday. Alongside bib collection, runners can browse the latest running shoes, apparel, nutrition products and recovery equipment from leading brands. Official Philadelphia Marathon merchandise is also available, including event clothing that often sells out before race day. As with any major marathon, arriving early is recommended. Friday is generally quieter than Saturday afternoon, allowing plenty of time to collect your bib, explore the exhibition and avoid unnecessary queues before focusing on your race preparation. How Many Runners Take Part? More than 30,000 runners take part across Philadelphia Marathon Weekend, making it one of the largest running festivals in the United States. The full marathon attracts around 10,000 participants, with the half marathon proving equally popular. Thousands more runners complete the 8K, children's races and the various challenge events, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the entire weekend. Despite its size, the event never feels overwhelming. The wide roads, well organised start procedures and spacious finish area help the weekend run smoothly, while the enthusiastic volunteers ensure runners receive plenty of encouragement and support from start to finish. The marathon start is near the Museum of Art Marathon Course The Philadelphia Marathon is widely regarded as one of the best big city marathon courses in the United States. It combines fast urban streets, historic landmarks, riverside running and beautiful parkland, giving runners a constantly changing backdrop over the 26.2 miles. Although there are a few gentle climbs, particularly through Fairmount Park, it is generally considered a fair course that offers good personal best potential when conditions are favourable. The race begins on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, one of Philadelphia's grandest boulevards, just a short distance from the famous Philadelphia Museum of Art. The wide start area allows runners plenty of space to settle into their pace before heading into the city centre. As the starting gun sounds, thousands of runners make their way beneath the city's impressive skyline, creating an unforgettable atmosphere from the very first mile. The opening section takes runners through the heart of downtown Philadelphia on broad, largely flat streets. Passing City Hall and some of the city's best-known historic districts, the early miles are packed with spectators and entertainment. It is an exciting start, but experienced marathon runners know this is the time to stay disciplined. The flat roads and enthusiastic crowds can make it easy to run faster than planned, something that often catches up with runners during the second half of the race. As the course heads east towards the Delaware River before turning back across the city, runners experience many different sides of Philadelphia. Historic buildings sit alongside modern skyscrapers, while lively neighbourhoods provide continuous encouragement. These opening miles showcase why Philadelphia is considered one of America's great walking cities, with impressive architecture around almost every corner. Around mile nine the course begins to leave the busy city streets behind and enters Fairmount Park, one of the largest urban park systems in the United States. The atmosphere changes noticeably as runners move from bustling city roads into quieter, tree-lined surroundings. This part of the course contains the most significant undulations of the day. None of the climbs are particularly steep or long, but they are enough to reward sensible pacing and punish runners who have started too aggressively. One of the highlights of this section is passing the Philadelphia Zoo, America's first zoo, which has been welcoming visitors since 1874. Although runners are naturally focused on the race, it is another reminder of just how much of the city's history is woven into the course. After crossing halfway, runners continue through Fairmount Park before joining Kelly Drive, a road that is familiar to many local runners and cyclists. Running alongside the Schuylkill River, this section offers some of the most attractive scenery on the course. The combination of open water, autumn colours and long, sweeping roads provides a welcome contrast to the city centre miles and gives runners an opportunity to settle into a steady rhythm. The journey towards Manayunk is often regarded as the defining section of the Philadelphia Marathon. The course follows Kelly Drive north before reaching this vibrant riverside neighbourhood, where the atmosphere changes dramatically once again. Crowds line Main Street several people deep, with local residents, cafés and restaurants creating one of the loudest and most energetic sections of the entire race. For many runners, the support here provides exactly the lift they need as fatigue begins to take hold. The turnaround in Manayunk comes shortly after mile 20, a point where the marathon often truly begins. Knowing there are no more significant climbs ahead provides a welcome psychological boost, although tired legs can make the return journey feel much longer than the outward run. The flat riverside roads allow runners to focus on maintaining a consistent pace as they gradually make their way back towards the city centre. The final few miles become increasingly emotional as familiar landmarks reappear and crowd support builds once again. Spectators gather in large numbers along Benjamin Franklin Parkway to cheer runners towards the finish, creating an atmosphere worthy of one of America's premier marathon weekends. The final straight is one of the most memorable finishes in North American running. The magnificent Philadelphia Museum of Art dominates the skyline ahead, while the famous Rocky Steps provide the perfect backdrop as runners cross the finish line. For anyone who has watched the Rocky films, finishing beneath these iconic steps is a special moment and a fitting reward after 26.2 unforgettable miles through one of America's most historic cities. Half Marathon Course The Philadelphia Half Marathon follows many of the same roads as the full marathon, giving runners the opportunity to experience the city's biggest landmarks without tackling the full 26.2 miles. Taking place on the Saturday of race weekend, it attracts thousands of runners each year and is regarded as one of the best half marathons in the United States. Like the marathon, the race starts on Benjamin Franklin Parkway close to the Philadelphia Museum of Art before heading into the city centre. The opening miles are fast and flat, passing many of Philadelphia's historic buildings and lively streets where spectators create a fantastic atmosphere from the very beginning. After leaving the city centre, the route heads towards Fairmount Park before joining Kelly Drive alongside the Schuylkill River. This picturesque section offers some of the best scenery on the course, with tree lined roads, river views and plenty of local support helping runners maintain their pace. The final miles follow a similar route to the marathon before returning to Benjamin Franklin Parkway for an exciting finish outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It is an ideal race for first time half marathon runners, while the fast course also attracts experienced athletes looking to achieve a personal best. Aid Stations And Race Support Philadelphia Marathon Weekend is exceptionally well organised, with aid stations positioned regularly throughout each course to help runners stay hydrated and fuelled. Water and sports drinks are available at multiple locations, while energy gels are provided at selected points during the marathon. Medical teams, first aid volunteers and mobile support crews are stationed around the course, ensuring assistance is never far away if required. More than 3,000 volunteers help deliver the event each year. From handing out drinks and medals to directing runners and encouraging spectators, they play a vital role in creating the welcoming atmosphere that Philadelphia Marathon Weekend is known for. The finish area is spacious and well organised, allowing runners to collect refreshments, recovery food, their finisher's medal and official event merchandise before meeting friends and family nearby. Finish by the famous Rocky statue Spectator Support One of Philadelphia Marathon Weekend's biggest strengths is the enthusiasm of the local community. Spectators line much of the city centre route from the opening miles, creating an electric atmosphere as runners pass many of the city's best known landmarks. The support continues through Fairmount Park before reaching its loudest point in Manayunk. This vibrant neighbourhood has become famous for its marathon atmosphere, with crowds filling the pavements outside cafés, bars and restaurants to cheer every runner regardless of pace. Supporters can also watch runners several times without travelling far by using the city's excellent public transport system or simply walking between key viewing locations. Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Kelly Drive and the finish outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art are among the most popular places to watch the race. Read here about why spectators are so important. Why Run The Philadelphia Marathon? The Philadelphia Marathon offers an excellent balance between the excitement of a major city marathon and the relaxed atmosphere of a smaller event. The organisation is first class, the course is scenic and varied, and the city's rich history provides a unique backdrop throughout race weekend. For runners chasing a personal best, the course is relatively fast, with only a few gentle undulations through Fairmount Park. Those running purely for the experience will enjoy passing famous landmarks, running alongside the Schuylkill River and finishing beneath the iconic Rocky Steps. The timing also makes Philadelphia particularly attractive. As one of the last major marathons of the year, it provides an excellent opportunity to end the season with a memorable race while enjoying the cooler temperatures that late November often brings. Whether you are travelling from elsewhere in the United States or visiting from overseas, Philadelphia Marathon Weekend combines outstanding organisation, welcoming locals and an unforgettable course to create one of North America's finest marathon experiences. Running For Charity The Philadelphia Marathon has a strong tradition of charity fundraising, with a wide range of local and national organisations offering guaranteed entries in return for a fundraising commitment. Running for charity is an excellent way to secure a place if general entries have sold out, while also making a positive difference to a cause that matters to you. Many charities provide fundraising support throughout your training, including personalised fundraising pages, branded running vests, training advice and dedicated cheer points on race day. The atmosphere created by charity supporters around the course provides an extra boost, particularly during the tougher closing miles. If you are considering running for charity, it is worth applying early as some of the most popular organisations allocate their places many months before race weekend. How To Enter Entries for the Philadelphia Marathon Weekend can be completed online through the official event website. General entries usually open many months in advance, with places remaining available until capacity is reached. Unlike some of the world's largest marathons, there is no ballot or lottery system, so runners can secure a place by registering while entries remain open. If the marathon sells out, guaranteed charity places are available through a number of official charity partners in return for an agreed fundraising commitment. As with all major marathons, early registration is recommended to secure the best entry price and allow plenty of time to plan your training, travel and accommodation. Where To Stay Philadelphia has a wide choice of accommodation and is an easy city to explore on foot or by public transport. Staying around Center City is a practical option for marathon weekend, putting you within reach of restaurants, attractions and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway area used by the event. Areas around Logan Square, Rittenhouse Square and the Parkway are particularly convenient, although you do not need to stay immediately beside the race area. Philadelphia's public transport network means accommodation elsewhere in Center City can still work well, especially if you find better availability or prices. The Philadelphia Marathon attracts runners from across the United States and overseas, so accommodation close to the most convenient parts of the city can become more expensive as race weekend approaches. Booking early gives you more choice, particularly if you want to stay within walking distance of the event rather than relying on transport on race morning. Compare Philadelphia accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The Philadelphia Marathon is one of America's best marathon weekends. It combines a fascinating destination, excellent organisation and a course that offers the perfect balance of fast city running and scenic parkland. Although it does not have the global profile of the World Marathon Majors, many runners actually prefer Philadelphia because of its friendly atmosphere, manageable size and outstanding value. The weekend feels big enough to be exciting without ever becoming overwhelming, making it equally suitable for first-time marathon runners and experienced athletes chasing a personal best. The challenge events add another dimension that few marathons can match, while the finish beneath the famous Rocky Steps is one of the most iconic in North American running. Add in Philadelphia's rich history, outstanding food scene and welcoming locals, and it is easy to see why so many runners return year after year. If you are looking for a memorable autumn marathon with excellent organisation, enthusiastic crowds and plenty to see both on and off the course, the Philadelphia Marathon deserves a place on your shortlist. Race website https://www.philadelphiamarathon.com/ Affiliate disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, Sapphire Running Zone may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

The Honolulu Marathon offers something very different from the typical big city marathon. It combines a spectacular fireworks start, Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head and Pacific Ocean views with one of the most welcoming approaches to marathon participation anywhere in the world. There is no qualifying time, no entry lottery and no official finishing time limit. Runners and walkers of widely different abilities can therefore experience 26.2 miles through Honolulu without worrying about a conventional cut off. However, Honolulu is not necessarily an easy marathon. The course is mostly flat, but the heat, humidity and exposed later miles can make it much tougher than the elevation profile suggests, particularly for runners arriving from colder parts of the world in December. The 2026 JAL Honolulu Marathon takes place on Sunday 13 December. If you want a destination marathon with a relaxed atmosphere, an international field and a race weekend that feels unmistakably Hawaiian, Honolulu deserves serious consideration. The Destination Honolulu is Hawaii’s capital and the main gateway to the island of Oahu. Waikiki is at the centre of the visitor experience, combining its famous beach with hotels, restaurants, shopping and views towards Diamond Head. The beach may dominate many visits, but there is much more to explore. Iolani Palace was the official residence of Hawaii’s final two reigning monarchs and remains the only royal palace in the United States, while the nearby King Kamehameha statue commemorates the monarch who unified the Hawaiian Islands. Pearl Harbor lies west of central Honolulu and is one of Oahu’s most significant historical sites. Its attractions include the USS Arizona Memorial, which commemorates those killed when the battleship was sunk during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. Outdoor activities are another major part of Honolulu’s appeal. Visitors can surf at Waikiki, snorkel at Hanauma Bay, walk to viewpoints overlooking the coast or explore more of Oahu before or after race day. Honolulu is an expensive destination, especially during a major event weekend. Flights and accommodation should be researched early, while resort fees, local taxes, food and transport all need to be included in your overall race weekend budget. History Of The Honolulu Marathon The first Honolulu Marathon was held on 16 December 1973, when 167 runners started and 151 completed the course. The event grew rapidly during the running boom of the 1970s and developed into one of the largest marathons in the world. In 1995, the event received 34,434 entries and recorded 27,022 finishers. That made it the world’s largest marathon at the time and demonstrated how far the race had developed since its small inaugural edition. Japanese runners have played an especially important role in the event’s history. Honolulu’s geographical position, longstanding links with Japan and popularity as a Hawaiian holiday destination helped the marathon develop an identity unlike any other major American race. The race continues to attract participants from Hawaii, mainland America, Japan and countries around the world. This international mix remains one of the defining features of the Honolulu Marathon experience. Who Organises The Honolulu Marathon? The event is organised by the Honolulu Marathon Association, a not for profit organisation responsible for the Honolulu Marathon and several other running events in Hawaii. Japan Airlines is the title sponsor of the marathon. The association also organises the Start to Park 10K and Kalakaua Merrie Mile during marathon weekend. The Hapalua, Hawaii’s Half Marathon, takes place separately in April. When Is The Honolulu Marathon 2026? The JAL Honolulu Marathon 2026 takes place on Sunday 13 December, starting at 5am. The Start to Park 10K begins at the same time and from the same start area. The Kalakaua Merrie Mile takes place at 7am on Saturday 12 December. There is no separate 5K in the published 2026 Honolulu Marathon Weekend programme. Starting at 5am allows runners to complete some of the course before the full heat of the day develops. Even so, many marathon participants will still be running well after sunrise and should prepare for warm, humid and exposed conditions. Honolulu Marathon Expo Every participant must collect their own race pack from the Honolulu Marathon Expo at the Hawaii Convention Center. Race packs are not posted and cannot be collected on race morning or by another person. The 2026 expo opens from 10am until 6pm on Thursday 10 December, 9am until 7pm on Friday 11 December and 9am until 5pm on Saturday 12 December. Participants should take valid photo identification and their bib number email to packet collection. Late entries are due to remain available at the expo until 5pm on Saturday, subject to availability. Expo entry is significantly more expensive than registering in advance, so leaving the decision until race weekend comes with a substantial financial penalty. A free Waikiki Trolley service is scheduled to connect several Waikiki locations with the convention centre during expo opening hours. Planned stops include the Duke Kahanamoku Statue, Royal Hawaiian Avenue and the Hilton Hawaiian Village area. The expo Race Morning The marathon starts on Ala Moana Boulevard at the Queen Street Extension, close to Ala Moana Beach Park. All colour-coded start groups have the same official 5am start time, with runners allocated according to their predicted finishing time. Participants should enter through one of the permitted access points and assemble beneath the banner corresponding to their bib colour. The start line closes at 5.30am, so the absence of a finishing time limit does not mean runners can arrive late. Walking or being dropped off is recommended for runners staying in Waikiki. Depending on the location of your accommodation, walking to the start could take around 30 to 45 minutes and needs to be included in your race morning plan. Complimentary shuttles are scheduled to run from Honolulu Zoo to the start between 2am and 4am. Places are not guaranteed, so the organisers advise runners to board early rather than relying on the final shuttle. The darkness and early hour create a distinctive atmosphere. A major fireworks display accompanies the start, illuminating the sky as the marathon and 10K fields begin their journey through Honolulu. Honolulu Marathon Course The Honolulu Marathon begins on Ala Moana Boulevard and finishes in Kapiolani Park. It is a point to point route that travels through Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki before heading around Diamond Head and east towards Hawaii Kai. Although the course is largely at sea level, it is not completely flat. The climbs around Diamond Head and the effect of rising temperatures can make the second half much more demanding than runners expect. The Start And Downtown Honolulu The opening mile takes runners away from Ala Moana Beach Park and towards Downtown Honolulu. With the race beginning at 5am, this section is completed in darkness beneath the remaining glow from the start line fireworks. During the second and third miles, the course passes Honolulu Harbor and the historic Aloha Tower. It then continues through Chinatown and along South King Street. This early section includes several important Honolulu landmarks. Runners pass Iolani Palace, the King Kamehameha statue, Kawaiahao Church, Honolulu Hale and the Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site. The city’s seasonal decorations add another dimension to the opening miles. Christmas lights around Downtown Honolulu are particularly striking during a race that begins well before sunrise. Ala Moana And Waikiki Around mile four, the course returns towards Ala Moana Boulevard and passes Ala Moana Center. Runners then cross the bridge over the Ala Wai Canal and enter Waikiki. The fifth mile travels past the Hilton Hawaiian Village and Fort DeRussy before turning onto Kalakaua Avenue. This brings runners into one of the most recognisable parts of the entire course. Waikiki’s hotels, shops and beachfront setting create a very different atmosphere from the downtown section. Runners pass the historic Moana Surfrider hotel, Waikiki Beach and the statue of legendary swimmer and surfer Duke Kahanamoku. We experienced this part of the route while running the Start to Park 10K. Completing the whole race in darkness, surrounded by runners enjoying themselves rather than worrying about their time, gave the event an unusually relaxed character. Kapiolani Park And Diamond Head Near mile six, the marathon and 10K experiences begin to separate. The Start to Park 10K heads towards its finish in Kapiolani Park, while marathon runners continue around Honolulu Zoo and towards Diamond Head. This is where the marathon begins to reveal its more challenging side. Short uphill sections take runners around Diamond Head, accompanied by views across Oahu’s eastern coastline as daylight begins to develop. Diamond Head is an extinct volcanic crater and one of Honolulu’s most recognisable natural landmarks. Marathon runners encounter it twice, making it both a scenic highlight and an important part of the course’s difficulty. Kahala And Kalanianaole Highway After circling Diamond Head, the course moves through Kahala and joins Kalanianaole Highway. The surroundings become increasingly residential as runners head away from central Honolulu. This long eastern section passes the communities of Waialae Iki, Aina Haina and Niu Valley. The course itself remains relatively level, although the surrounding neighbourhoods rise sharply into the hills on one side while the Pacific coastline lies on the other. The separation from Waikiki’s crowds can make these miles mentally demanding. By this stage the sun will have risen, and runners who are not accustomed to Hawaii’s climate may begin to feel the combined effects of heat, humidity and exposure. Hawaii Kai And The Turn Back Around mile 16, runners turn into Hawaii Kai and complete a loop around the community’s inland waterway. Koko Head becomes a prominent feature ahead, providing another reminder of Oahu’s volcanic landscape. The route reaches its easternmost section near Maunalua Bay Beach Park before turning back onto Kalanianaole Highway towards Honolulu. Reaching this point can feel significant, but runners still have approximately ten miles remaining. The return journey follows the same broad coastal corridor towards Kahala. This is where sensible early pacing and effective hydration become particularly important. The Return To Diamond Head After approximately mile 22, the route leaves the highway and passes Waialae Country Club before continuing along Kahala Avenue. The oceanfront homes and coastal surroundings make this an attractive part of the course, although tired legs may make it difficult to appreciate fully. Runners then approach Diamond Head for the second time. The gradients are relatively short, but they arrive during the final miles when the temperature is higher and fatigue has accumulated. The climb should not be underestimated simply because Honolulu is described as a mostly flat marathon. For many runners, this late return around Diamond Head will be the hardest part of the race. The Final Miles The final section curves around the ocean side of Diamond Head and passes the Diamond Head Lighthouse. Views towards the Pacific provide one last major scenic highlight before the course returns to Waikiki. Runners enter Kapiolani Park and follow Kalakaua Avenue past Sans Souci Beach and the Waikiki Aquarium. The finish line is near the Kapiolani Park Bandstand, only a short distance from Waikiki Beach. Marathon finishers receive their medal before collecting their finisher shirt in the designated area. Freshly made malasadas are also part of the post-race experience and have become a much-loved Honolulu Marathon tradition. The Honolulu Marathon combines a fireworks start with Waikiki, Diamond Head and views of the Pacific Ocean. How Difficult Is The Honolulu Marathon? Honolulu is mostly flat apart from the sections around Diamond Head, but that does not make it an easy marathon. The climate is the main challenge, particularly for runners who complete most of their training in cold autumn or winter conditions. Hawaii remains warm throughout the winter, with average daytime temperatures at sea level of around 26°C. The 5am start helps, but temperatures rise after sunrise and slower runners may spend several hours on the exposed eastern section of the course. Runners should adjust their pace to the conditions rather than chasing a target developed in a cooler climate. Hydration and fuelling need to be practised during training, while lightweight kit, sun protection and realistic expectations can all make race day more manageable. Travelling across several time zones can create another difficulty. Arriving with enough time to adapt, recover from the journey and establish a suitable sleep pattern is preferable to landing immediately before the race. Is There A Honolulu Marathon Time Limit? There is no official finishing time limit for the Honolulu Marathon. The finish remains open until the final participant has completed the course, and many people walk part or all of the distance. Participants must remain in motion throughout the event. Race officials also reserve the right to remove someone from the course if they believe this is necessary for the safety of the participant, staff or volunteers. This makes Honolulu particularly welcoming to first-time marathoners, walkers and runners who may be concerned about conventional cut off times. Participants must still cross the start line by 5.30am and should be physically prepared to cover the full 26.2 miles safely. The no time limit policy should not be mistaken for a reason to underestimate the event. Spending longer on the course also means spending more time in the heat, making preparation, hydration and sun protection especially important. What Makes The Honolulu Marathon Special? The start is one of the most memorable in marathon running. Setting off in darkness beneath a large fireworks display immediately creates the feeling that Honolulu is more than an ordinary road race. Its international identity also sets it apart. The Japanese presence is visible throughout race weekend, combining with runners from Hawaii, mainland America and many other countries to create a genuinely global event. The course provides an unusually varied picture of Honolulu. Downtown landmarks, Christmas lights, Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, residential neighbourhoods and Pacific Ocean views all feature within the same 26.2 miles. Most importantly, the event welcomes runners of very different speeds. The absence of a ballot, qualifying standard or conventional finishing cut off makes Honolulu accessible in a way that many of the world’s biggest destination marathons are not. Is Honolulu Marathon Good For First Time Marathon Runners? Honolulu can be a rewarding first marathon because there is no pressure from a conventional finishing cut off. Walkers and slower runners are a recognised part of the event rather than an afterthought. The atmosphere is supportive and the destination gives the challenge a genuine sense of occasion. Finishing your first marathon beside Waikiki Beach would create an experience that is difficult to forget. The climate is the main reason to think carefully before choosing it as a first marathon. Anyone training through a cold winter will need a sensible strategy for coping with conditions that may feel very different from those encountered during their longest training runs. The cost of reaching Hawaii is another consideration. Honolulu can be an outstanding choice if you want to build a major holiday around your first marathon, but it is not likely to be a low cost introduction to the distance. Other Honolulu Marathon Weekend Races The Start to Park 10K takes place at 5am on Sunday 13 December. It begins alongside the marathon on Ala Moana Boulevard, shares the opening section of the marathon route and finishes in Kapiolani Park. The 10K is chip timed and has no finishing time limit. It provides the excitement of the fireworks start and the route through Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki without requiring participants to complete the full marathon. The Kalakaua Merrie Mile takes place at 7am on Saturday 12 December. The one-mile race starts on Monsarrat Avenue, heads into Waikiki and finishes beside Queen’s Beach after returning along Kalakaua Avenue. The Merrie Mile is staged in waves based on predicted finishing times and welcomes runners of different ages and abilities. It also features elite competition involving leading international middle-distance athletes, followed by a beach festival. Anyone entering the Merrie Mile must collect their race pack by 6.55pm on Friday 11 December. Waiting until Saturday is not an option because the event takes place before the expo reopens that morning. Running The Honolulu Marathon For Charity The Honolulu Marathon operates an official charity programme offering free VIP marathon entries in return for reaching the fundraising target set by the chosen charity. The programme includes a charity runner bib, fundraising and training support, a Team Kokua medal and access to a dedicated charity finisher area for the runner and two guests. A wide range of charitable organisations are participating in the 2026 programme. Runners should check the current list and read the individual fundraising commitment carefully before applying because targets and conditions may vary between charities. You can also secure your own marathon entry and independently raise money for another charity. An international marathon in Hawaii provides a powerful fundraising story, particularly when supporters can follow the full journey from training through to race day. How To Enter The Honolulu Marathon 2026 Registration for the 2026 Honolulu Marathon is still open, with separate entry routes for Hawaii residents, mainland US and Canadian residents, international runners, and eligible military personnel and students. There is no ballot, qualifying time or published entry limit. Entry fees increase in stages. From 8 September until 12 October, the marathon costs $235 for Hawaii, mainland US and Canadian residents, while international entry costs $310. From 13 October until 3 December, the corresponding prices rise to $255 and $320. If entries remain available at the expo, marathon registration costs $460 for Hawaii, mainland US, Canadian and international residents. The Start to Park 10K costs $120 during the September and early October entry period, rising to $130 from 13 October and $160 at the expo. The Kalakaua Merrie Mile costs $65 during the same current period, $70 from 13 October and $80 at the expo. Eligible active-duty US military personnel and students receive a 10% discount during the advance registration periods. Separate prices apply if they wait to enter at the expo. Participants should check the final price and booking conditions before completing their registration. Entries are not normally refundable or deferrable unless qualifying booking protection was purchased at registration. Where To Stay Honolulu is a major holiday destination, so there is a huge choice of hotels and apartments for runners travelling to the marathon. Waikiki is the most obvious base, with plenty of accommodation, restaurants and shops as well as easy access to the beach, making it a good option if you are combining the race with a longer stay in Hawaii. The Honolulu Marathon is a point to point event, so it is worth considering both race morning and the journey back to your accommodation after finishing. Staying in Waikiki is particularly convenient for the finish area and gives you a central base for the rest of your trip, while local transport and event arrangements can help with getting to the start. December is a popular time to visit Hawaii and marathon weekend brings thousands of additional visitors to Honolulu. Accommodation in Waikiki can therefore become expensive, so booking well in advance is sensible, particularly if you want a specific location or are extending your trip beyond race weekend. Compare Honolulu accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The Honolulu Marathon is an outstanding destination event, but runners need to understand what makes it challenging. The course is not particularly hilly, yet the heat, humidity, long exposed sections and travel can turn it into a much tougher marathon than its profile suggests. What Honolulu delivers is an experience that few other races can match. The fireworks start, nighttime miles through the city, Waikiki Beach, two encounters with Diamond Head and the finish in Kapiolani Park give the marathon a very strong identity. Its welcoming approach is another major strength. No ballot, no qualifying time and no conventional finishing cut off allow runners and walkers to experience a large international marathon without the barriers attached to many other famous events. The cost is difficult to ignore, particularly for anyone travelling from Europe or mainland America. Booking flights and accommodation early, researching alternatives to the largest Waikiki hotels and treating the marathon as part of a longer Hawaiian trip can make the expense easier to justify. If you want the fastest possible marathon time, Honolulu’s climate may lead you to look elsewhere. If you want a memorable destination race with spectacular scenery, a distinctive atmosphere and the freedom to complete 26.2 miles at your own pace, the Honolulu Marathon 2026 is difficult to beat. Race Website https://www.honolulumarathon.org/ Affiliate disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, Sapphire Running Zone may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

The Vancouver Sun Run is one of the great mass participation running events in North America. First held in 1985 with just 3,200 participants, it has grown into Canada’s largest 10K road race and an annual celebration of running that takes over the streets of Vancouver each spring. The 2027 Vancouver Sun Run takes place on Sunday 18 April, bringing runners, walkers, elite athletes and teams together for a spectacular 10K through the heart of the city. The route combines downtown Vancouver with the waterfront, Burrard Street Bridge and False Creek before finishing outside BC Place Stadium. Its size is certainly part of the attraction. The 2026 event reached its operational capacity of 55,000 registrations, while the organisers describe the Sun Run as the third largest timed 10K in North America. However, this is much more than a huge road race. Vancouver provides a spectacular setting, and the combination of a major city, waterfront running and an enormous field makes the Sun Run an attractive event for runners travelling from elsewhere in Canada, the United States and further afield. The History Of The Vancouver Sun Run The first Vancouver Sun Run took place in 1985 and was founded by former Canadian Olympians Dr Doug and Diane Clement together with Dr Jack Taunton. Their aim was to encourage people to experience the health and fitness benefits of running while also supporting elite amateur athletics. That inaugural race attracted 3,200 participants, but Vancouver quickly embraced the idea. Over the following decades the Sun Run developed into one of Canada's biggest annual participation events, attracting everyone from international elite athletes to people walking their first 10K. The event has retained that inclusive approach as it has grown. Competitive runners can race for fast times at the front while recreational runners, walkers, wheelchair participants, workplace teams, youth groups and families can all be part of the weekend. The 2027 race will continue a history stretching back more than four decades and once again turn central Vancouver into a huge celebration of running. Vancouver Sun Run 2027 The 2027 Vancouver Sun Run will take place on Sunday 18 April. The main event is the timed 10K, but the Sun Run weekend offers several different ways to participate. Alongside the Individual 10K there are options for walkers, teams and youth groups, while the 2.5K Mini Sun Run provides a shorter distance particularly suited to children and families. The elite competition remains an important part of the event, with leading Canadian and international athletes traditionally invited to compete. The size of the Sun Run means this is closer in atmosphere to a major city marathon than a typical local 10K. Tens of thousands of runners fill the streets, spectators line sections of the course and the event continues beyond the finish with celebrations around BC Place. Vancouver: The Host City Vancouver is one of Canada's most distinctive major cities, with the Pacific Ocean on one side and the mountains of British Columbia providing a dramatic backdrop on the other. That setting is particularly noticeable when exploring the city on foot, and the Sun Run makes excellent use of Vancouver's downtown streets and waterfront. Downtown Vancouver is relatively compact, which is useful for visiting runners. Stanley Park sits immediately to the northwest of downtown and contains kilometres of paths and the famous Seawall, while English Bay provides beaches and waterfront views just beyond the city's West End. False Creek separates downtown from neighbourhoods to the south and is another important part of the city's waterfront landscape. Several of these areas are directly relevant to the Sun Run. The race starts downtown, passes through the West End, reaches English Bay, crosses Burrard Street Bridge and later follows False Creek before finishing beside BC Place. Rather than simply holding a 10K within Vancouver, the course provides a good introduction to several different parts of the city. If you are travelling specifically for the race, it is worth allowing additional time to explore. Stanley Park is an obvious choice for an easy pre race walk or gentle run, while Granville Island, Gastown, Canada Place and the downtown waterfront are all within easy reach. Vancouver also provides a useful base for exploring more of British Columbia if you want to turn race weekend into a longer trip. Where To Stay In Vancouver Downtown Vancouver is the most convenient area for most visiting Sun Run participants. The race starts around Georgia Street and Burrard Street and finishes beside BC Place, so staying centrally can make both race morning and the journey back to your accommodation considerably easier. The West End is another attractive option. It is close to the start area and puts you near English Bay and Stanley Park, while still providing easy access to the rest of downtown. Yaletown is particularly convenient for BC Place and the finish area and is well connected by public transport. Accommodation in central Vancouver can be expensive, particularly when a major event brings tens of thousands of additional visitors into the city. Booking well in advance is therefore sensible once you have secured your race entry. If you stay outside downtown, check SkyTrain connections before booking. Vancouver's public transport system means you do not necessarily have to pay central hotel prices, but an easy journey to the start is much more valuable on race morning than saving a small amount on accommodation. Vancouver Sun Run Expo And Race Package Pick Up Race weekend begins before Sunday morning with the Vancouver Sun Run Expo and race package collection. In 2026 this was held at Vancouver Convention Centre East at Canada Place, providing a particularly convenient location for runners staying downtown. Individual 10K participants collected their race shirt and bib containing their timing tag at the expo. The event also featured running and fitness exhibitors, sponsor stands and product sampling, making package collection part of the wider Sun Run weekend rather than simply somewhere to collect a race number. The 2027 expo location, opening times and collection arrangements will be confirmed closer to the event. Check the final instructions before travelling rather than assuming the arrangements will be identical to the previous year. Read more about race expos here. The 2026 mass start: By Jerry Meaden from Surrey, British Columbia, Canada - Vancouver Sun Run Masses (Explored), CC BY 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=191530716 Vancouver Sun Run Race Morning The scale of the Vancouver Sun Run means race morning requires more planning than a typical local 10K. Tens of thousands of participants have to be moved through the start area safely, so runners are divided into waves and corrals based on their expected finishing times. Recent editions have included an earlier competitive wheelchair start followed by the elite race and mass participation waves. Further groups are then released progressively, helping to reduce congestion as such a large field moves onto the course. Exact 2027 start times and corral arrangements should be checked in the final participant information. The main 10K starts around the intersection of Georgia Street and Burrard Street in downtown Vancouver. With such a large field, arriving early is important. Give yourself enough time to reach the correct start area, use the toilets and find your designated corral without having to rush through the crowds. Your timing tag records when you cross the start and finish timing points, so runners starting in later waves are timed from their own crossing of the start line rather than from the beginning of the first wave. The Vancouver Sun Run 10K Course One of the biggest attractions of the Vancouver Sun Run is its course. Rather than keeping runners within the downtown grid, the route heads towards Vancouver's West End before reaching the waterfront and eventually crossing False Creek. From the downtown start, runners initially head northwest towards Denman Street. The opening section can feel extremely busy, particularly in the larger waves, so this is not necessarily the place to chase seconds by constantly weaving around other runners. Settle into your pace and allow the field to begin spreading out. The route continues through the West End towards English Bay, giving runners their first real taste of Vancouver's waterfront scenery. After the density of the opening kilometres, this section begins to show why the Sun Run has such appeal beyond simply being a very large 10K. Runners then head east alongside the waterfront on Beach Avenue before approaching one of the defining features of the course, Burrard Street Bridge. The crossing provides impressive views but also introduces one of the most significant changes in elevation on the route. If you are racing hard, controlling your effort on the climb rather than trying to maintain exactly the same pace can pay off later. After crossing the bridge, the course turns through the South False Creek area. With more than half of the race completed, attention starts shifting from enjoying the scenery to maintaining pace through the final kilometres. The route continues around False Creek before heading past Science World, one of Vancouver's most recognisable landmarks. By this point BC Place is getting close and the atmosphere begins to build again as runners approach the finish. The final section takes runners towards the stadium precinct, with the 10K finish outside BC Place. After a route taking you from downtown to English Bay, across Burrard Street Bridge and around False Creek, it provides an appropriately impressive setting for the end of the race. Is The Vancouver Sun Run Course Fast? The Vancouver Sun Run attracts serious club and elite runners as well as recreational participants, and fast 10K performances are certainly possible. However, it isn't a completely flat course and the sheer size of the field can make positioning important for anyone targeting a personal best. Burrard Street Bridge is the most obvious section where runners need to manage their effort, while changes in elevation elsewhere mean this isn't simply a flat city 10K. If you're targeting a particular time, including some hills in your training rather than doing every session on flat ground will leave you better prepared. Your starting corral also matters. With tens of thousands of people participating, runners further back should expect some congestion, particularly early in the race. Give an accurate predicted finishing time when entering and follow the organisers' corral requirements. For runners less concerned about the clock, the course offers something different. English Bay, Burrard Street Bridge, False Creek, Science World and the downtown skyline make this a 10K where looking around is part of the experience. The Finish At BC Place Crossing the finish line doesn't bring the Vancouver Sun Run experience to an immediate end. Runners finish outside BC Place and can then continue into the post-race celebrations. Recent editions have included live entertainment, refreshments and an awards ceremony, with the stadium precinct providing a focal point for runners and supporters once the racing has finished. With such a large number of people completing the event, arranging where you are going to meet friends or family beforehand is worthwhile. Mobile networks can become busy around major participation events and trying to locate someone among tens of thousands of runners and spectators is much easier when you already have a plan. The fantastic finish at the BC Stadium - By Guilhem Vellut from Annecy, France - Vancouver Sun Run, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=148393471 The Mini Sun Run For families who don't want to tackle the full 10K, the event also includes a 2.5K Mini Sun Run. It is designed as an accessible way for younger runners and families to become involved in race weekend without having to cover the main distance. The Mini Sun Run is not individually timed and traditionally takes place before the main 10K gets underway. Younger children should be accompanied in accordance with the current event rules. The precise 2027 arrangements, including the Mini Sun Run start time and entry details, should be checked when the organisers release the full race weekend programme. Walking The Vancouver Sun Run You don't have to run 10K to take part. The Vancouver Sun Run includes walkers, reflecting the event's original aim of encouraging physical activity across the community rather than catering only for competitive runners. Walkers are placed appropriately within the wave system so that the faster running fields can start ahead of them. This helps everyone move around the course more safely and comfortably while allowing walkers to experience the same 10K route and big-event atmosphere. That makes the Sun Run a realistic option for someone who wants the experience of a huge city event without having to run the entire distance. Vancouver Weather In April April in Vancouver can provide very good running conditions, but runners should be prepared for changeable spring weather. Cool temperatures can be ideal for a 10K, while rain is always possible on the Pacific coast. Check the forecast during race week rather than making clothing decisions too early. If rain is expected, a disposable outer layer can help you stay warmer while waiting for your wave to start, while sunscreen may be equally useful if Vancouver produces a bright spring morning. Whatever the forecast, avoid making last minute changes to shoes or running kit. Race day is not the time to discover that a new pair of shoes starts rubbing after five kilometres. Read more about race day planning here. How To Enter The Vancouver Sun Run 2027 The 2027 Vancouver Sun Run takes place on Sunday 18 April and registration is scheduled to open in September 2026. The popularity of the event makes entering early advisable. The 2026 10K reached its operational capacity of 55,000 registrations, after which standard places were no longer available. If you already know that Vancouver is on your 2027 running calendar, there is little advantage in waiting until the final weeks before the race to secure a place. Different entry options are available across the Sun Run programme, including the main 10K and shorter family event, with team and walking participation also forming part of the wider event. Prices, deadlines and categories can change, so use the current registration information rather than relying on details from previous years. It is also important to read the entry terms before paying, particularly the current rules covering refunds, transfers and deferrals. Running The Vancouver Sun Run For Charity Although the Vancouver Sun Run was created primarily as a community fitness event rather than a charity race, fundraising has become an important part of it. Since 1985, the event has donated more than $3.48 million in proceeds to good causes, while runners can also use their own participation to raise money for one of the Sun Run's official charity partners. The event currently works with 16 charity partners covering causes including cancer care and research, food poverty, children's mentoring, heart and stroke services, kidney disease and community support. Runners can support a partner charity when registering or create a personal pledge page through their chosen charity and ask friends, family and colleagues to sponsor their 10K. Money raised through these pledge pages goes directly to the selected charity. You don't necessarily have to limit your fundraising to the official programme either. If there is another charity or cause that matters personally to you, contact the organisation before you start fundraising and ask whether you can use your Vancouver Sun Run place to support them. A 10K can be an excellent fundraising challenge, particularly for someone taking on the distance for the first time, and the enormous atmosphere of the Sun Run gives you a great event around which to build your campaign. 2026 also saw the event offer Charity Bibs after standard 10K registration reached capacity. These cost $100, with $50 donated directly to one of the Vancouver Sun Run's 16 official charity partners. This is different from the guaranteed charity place system commonly found some other major running events, as there was no minimum fundraising commitment attached to the entry. At the time of writing, the organisers have not confirmed whether Charity Bibs will return for the 2027 Vancouver Sun Run. Where To Stay Vancouver has accommodation across the downtown area and surrounding neighbourhoods, with plenty of options for runners turning the Vancouver Sun Run into a longer visit. Downtown is particularly convenient if you want easy access to restaurants, attractions and public transport during your stay. When choosing a hotel, look at transport connections as well as its distance from the event. Vancouver's SkyTrain and bus network gives you more flexibility over where to stay, while a central base can make the rest of your race weekend much easier without needing a car. The Vancouver Sun Run is a major event and accommodation can be in demand, particularly in the most convenient downtown locations. If you are travelling to Vancouver specifically for the race, booking well ahead can give you more choice and help avoid relying on the remaining higher priced rooms. Compare Vancouver accommodation and current prices → Is The Vancouver Sun Run Worth Running? If you like small, quiet races where you can arrive shortly before the start and immediately settle into an uninterrupted pace, an event attracting tens of thousands of people onto the streets of Vancouver may sound slightly overwhelming. The Vancouver Sun Run is deliberately something very different. This is a race where scale is part of the attraction. You share the event with elite athletes, club runners, first-time 10K participants, walkers, workplace teams and families while travelling through some of Vancouver's best-known streets and waterfront areas. For runners travelling from elsewhere in Canada, the United States or further afield, it also provides an excellent reason to visit Vancouver. At 10K, the race is short enough to leave plenty of time and energy for exploring the city while still providing the atmosphere and organisation associated with a genuinely major running event. Race Website https://www.vancouversunrun.com/ Affiliate disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, Sapphire Running Zone may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Mizuno has been producing sporting equipment for more than a century and has developed one of the most recognisable approaches to running shoe design. Its current range stretches from dependable everyday road shoes to highly cushioned models, stability shoes, faster training footwear, specialist racing shoes and dedicated trail options. The Wave Rider remains at the centre of the road range, while the Wave Sky provides greater cushioning and the Wave Inspire and Wave Horizon offer different approaches to additional stability. Move towards Mizuno's newer performance footwear and the Neo family becomes increasingly important, before the Wave Rebellion range takes the technology into specialist racing. This guide explains what Mizuno running shoes are known for, how technologies including Mizuno Wave, Enerzy, Enerzy NXT and Smooth Speed Assist work and some of the current models worth knowing about. It is a starting point rather than a complete catalogue, with different generations and regional variations often available at the same time. Who Is Mizuno? Mizuno was founded in Osaka, Japan, in 1906 by brothers Rihachi and Rizo Mizuno. The original Mizuno Brothers business sold western goods including baseball equipment before gradually becoming increasingly involved in manufacturing sporting products. The company's involvement in athletics stretches back almost a century. Mizuno began manufacturing track and field shoes in 1928, establishing a connection with running long before the development of the modern cushioned road running shoe. One of the defining developments in Mizuno's more recent running history was Mizuno Wave. The technology was designed to combine cushioning with stability through a wave shaped structure incorporated into the shoe. The original Wave Rider made its global debut in 1997 and subsequently became one of Mizuno's longest established running shoe families. Later developments including Enerzy cushioning and the Neo and Wave Rebellion ranges have considerably broadened the company's approach beyond its traditional Wave construction. What Makes Mizuno Running Shoes Different? Mizuno has historically placed considerable emphasis on combining cushioning with stability rather than simply making a running shoe as soft as possible. Mizuno Wave became central to that approach and remains one of the technologies most closely associated with the brand. The modern range is considerably broader, with different forms of Wave technology sitting alongside newer cushioning materials and more aggressive geometries. This allows Mizuno to produce shoes with noticeably different characteristics rather than applying one formula across its entire collection. A Wave Rider 30 is therefore very different from a Neo Vista 3 or Wave Rebellion Pro 3. The Rider is designed primarily around dependable everyday mileage, while the Neo Vista moves towards highly cushioned performance training and the Rebellion Pro is a specialist racing shoe. The range is easiest to understand by beginning with what you need the shoe to do. Everyday running, greater cushioning, additional stability, faster training, racing and trails all lead towards different parts of the Mizuno collection. How Do Mizuno Running Shoes Fit? Fit varies between Mizuno models and generations, particularly now that the range includes conventionally constructed Wave shoes alongside newer models using very different uppers and geometries. Experience with one Mizuno should therefore not automatically determine which size you need in another. A Wave Rider, Neo Vista and Wave Rebellion Pro are designed for different purposes and can feel noticeably different even when the labelled size is identical. Racing footwear in particular may provide a more specialised fit than a conventional everyday running shoe. Mizuno offers different width options in parts of its range, although availability varies between models, men's and women's shoes and individual markets. Runners needing additional width should check the specific model rather than assuming every Mizuno is available in the same options. Your toes should have enough room to move while the heel and midfoot remain comfortably secure. Feet can expand during longer runs, making it particularly important to judge fit with the distances and type of running you actually intend to complete. What About Heel Drop? There is no single heel drop across Mizuno running shoes. Different models use different offsets according to their intended purpose, and those figures can change when a shoe is redesigned. Mizuno has historically produced several road shoes with relatively conventional heel to toe drops, but the modern collection is much broader. High stack Neo models and the distinctive geometry of the Wave Rebellion range can provide very different experiences from the company's established everyday shoes. The Wave Rider 30 demonstrates why checking the current specification matters. Mizuno has moved the shoe to an 8mm drop as part of a major redesign, alongside a taller midsole and the introduction of a full length Wave Plate. Heel drop should not be considered in isolation. Stack height, cushioning, stiffness, rocker geometry, plate construction and the overall shape of the shoe all influence how it feels while running. Read more about heel drop here. What Is Mizuno Running Shoe Cushioning Like? Mizuno's cushioning has changed considerably as the company has expanded beyond the firmer ride historically associated with some of its running shoes. The modern collection contains everything from conventional everyday cushioning to softer and more responsive materials used in high stack training and racing footwear. Enerzy became an important part of that development, while Enerzy NXT has subsequently extended Mizuno's approach to softer and more responsive cushioning. Different versions and applications of these materials now appear throughout the range. The result is a collection containing substantially different experiences. A Wave Rider combines modern cushioning with the structure provided by a Wave Plate, while shoes within the Neo family use high stack constructions to create a different type of ride. The name of the cushioning therefore provides only part of the story. The amount of foam, geometry, Wave construction, plate and upper all contribute to how the finished shoe behaves. What Is Mizuno Wave? Mizuno Wave is the technology most closely associated with the company's running shoes. It was developed around the challenge of providing cushioning and stability within the same construction. The principle uses a wave shaped structure to help absorb and disperse forces during landing while also providing stability. Different implementations have developed over time, meaning Mizuno Wave should not be thought of as one identical component fitted to every shoe. A traditional Wave Plate uses a physical plate within the midsole, while Foam Wave takes a different approach by using layers of cushioning arranged in a wave shaped geometry. Both apply the same broad concept in different ways. The technology has therefore evolved considerably since the original Wave Rider appeared in 1997. Wave remains an important part of Mizuno's identity, but its role depends on the construction and purpose of the individual shoe. What Is A Mizuno Wave Plate? The Wave Plate is one of the best known applications of Mizuno Wave technology. A wave shaped plate is incorporated into the midsole to help distribute impact while contributing structure and stability. Its design can vary considerably between different shoes and generations. The Wave Rider 30 is a particularly important example because it introduces a full length Wave Plate to the Rider family for the first time, forming part of a substantial redesign of Mizuno's principal everyday shoe. That does not make the Wave Rider a carbon plated racing shoe. Its Wave Plate has a different purpose from the carbon reinforced plate used within Mizuno's specialist racing footwear. The distinction matters because the word plate has become closely associated with modern super shoes. Plates can perform very different functions according to their material, shape, stiffness and position within a running shoe. What Is Foam Wave? Foam Wave applies Mizuno's Wave principle without relying on a traditional rigid Wave Plate. Different layers and densities of cushioning can be arranged in a wave shaped structure within the midsole itself. This allows Mizuno to combine cushioning with inherent stability while producing a different experience from its traditional Wave Plate designs. The technology is used across both road and trail footwear, depending on what Mizuno wants an individual shoe to achieve. The Wave Sky 9 uses Foam Wave alongside nitrogen infused Enerzy NXT cushioning, while the Wave Mujin 11 applies Foam Wave within a trail shoe designed to combine cushioning with stability on more demanding terrain. As with any running shoe technology, the presence of Foam Wave does not tell you everything about how a shoe will feel. Cushioning materials, platform width, upper construction and overall geometry remain equally important. What Is Mizuno Enerzy? Mizuno Enerzy is a cushioning technology developed to combine softness with energy return. Its introduction represented an important development in the character of Mizuno's running shoes. Earlier Mizuno models could sometimes feel relatively firm compared with softer alternatives from other brands. Enerzy allowed the company to place greater emphasis on cushioning and responsiveness while retaining the controlled transitions associated with much of its footwear. Different forms and applications of Enerzy have subsequently appeared throughout the running range. The technology can work alongside Wave structures and other components rather than operating as a complete shoe system by itself. Two Mizuno shoes containing Enerzy technology can therefore still feel substantially different. The amount of cushioning, geometry and other components surrounding the foam help determine the finished running experience. What Is Mizuno Enerzy NXT? Enerzy NXT is a newer generation of Mizuno cushioning and has become increasingly important across the company's running range. Different formulations and applications can be used according to the requirements of the individual shoe. Nitrogen infused Enerzy NXT now appears in several important current models. The Wave Rider 30 uses it within its redesigned midsole, while the Wave Sky 9 uses the material as part of its highly cushioned construction and the Wave Inspire 22 incorporates it throughout its redesigned midsole. The technology also plays an important role within Mizuno's newer performance footwear. Its use has helped the company develop softer and more responsive shoes without abandoning the stability and controlled transitions associated with many Mizuno models. Enerzy NXT does not by itself define how a shoe will feel. Its behaviour depends on the formulation, amount of cushioning, geometry and complete construction surrounding it. What Is Smooth Speed Assist? Smooth Speed Assist is Mizuno's technology designed around faster running. Rather than being a cushioning material, it is an approach to shoe geometry intended to encourage a smooth transition through the stride at speed. The technology has become particularly associated with the Wave Rebellion family. Mizuno combines the geometry with performance cushioning and carbon reinforced Wave technology to create a running experience that is substantially different from its everyday road shoes. Smooth Speed Assist also appears within performance training footwear, demonstrating that the concept is not restricted solely to race day shoes. How aggressive it feels depends on the complete geometry and purpose of the individual model. The resulting experience can be very different from a conventional running shoe, particularly within the Wave Rebellion family. Runners considering one of these models should use it during training before relying on it for an important race. Does Mizuno Make Neutral Running Shoes? Yes. A large part of Mizuno's road running collection consists of neutral shoes, with different models covering everything from everyday mileage to specialist performance footwear. The Wave Rider 30 is one of the clearest examples and sits near the centre of the everyday range. The Wave Sky 9 provides a more cushioned neutral alternative, while the Neo Zen 2 and Neo Vista 3 offer a more modern high stack approach to training. Move towards racing and the Wave Rebellion family becomes increasingly specialised. Neutral therefore describes the absence of a dedicated stability system rather than one particular type of Mizuno running shoe. A neutral shoe can still feel inherently stable because of its platform, Wave technology, cushioning and geometry. Choosing between these models should begin with how you want the shoe to feel and the type of running you intend to do. Does Mizuno Make Stability Running Shoes? Yes. Mizuno has a long history of incorporating stability into its running shoes, although the way that support is created has developed alongside its cushioning and Wave technologies. The Wave Inspire 22 is one of the principal stability shoes in the current range. Its redesigned midsole uses nitrogen infused Enerzy NXT, while the supportive Wave Plate is shaped to help control excessive inward movement and create a stable transition through the stride. The Wave Horizon 9 provides a more substantial alternative. It combines a broad construction with Enerzy NXT, Enerzy cushioning, an asymmetrical Wave design and additional support on the inside of the shoe. The distinction gives runners two different approaches to stability. The Inspire 22 is the more conventional everyday stability option, while the Horizon 9 moves further towards substantial cushioning and support. Does Mizuno Make Carbon Plated Running Shoes? Yes. Mizuno produces specialist plated racing footwear, although its approach looks noticeably different from many conventional carbon super shoes. The Wave Rebellion Pro 3 is one of the clearest examples. It combines performance cushioning with a carbon reinforced Wave Plate and Smooth Speed Assist geometry in a shoe designed specifically around faster road racing. The distinctive geometry makes the Rebellion Pro considerably more specialised than a conventional everyday running shoe. Its construction is designed around maintaining efficient transitions at speed rather than simply placing a carbon plate inside a familiar shoe shape. Carbon technology should therefore be considered as part of the complete shoe rather than in isolation. Fit, comfort and whether the geometry works with your running style remain more important than choosing a shoe simply because it contains a carbon reinforced plate. Read more about super shoes here. Does Mizuno Make Trail Running Shoes? Yes. Mizuno produces trail running shoes covering different distances and types of terrain, giving runners several options beyond its better known road footwear. The Neo Daichi 10 provides one of the more versatile routes into Mizuno's trail collection. Designed to balance cushioning, grip and protection across varied terrain, it is aimed at runners who want an adaptable trail shoe for everything from regular off road runs to longer adventures on more demanding surfaces. The Wave Mujin 11 moves towards more demanding trails and places greater emphasis on cushioning, stability and protection. It uses Enerzy NXT, a full length Foam Wave construction and Vibram Megagrip. The distinction gives trail runners two noticeably different options. The Daichi is a versatile choice for varied off road running, while the Mujin becomes more relevant as terrain and distance place greater emphasis on protection and support. Read more about trail shoes here. Which Mizuno Running Shoes Should You Consider? Mizuno's range changes regularly and older generations often remain available alongside newer shoes. The models below represent some of the most important parts of the current collection rather than every Mizuno running shoe available. The range is particularly broad because long established Wave families now sit alongside newer Neo footwear and specialist Wave Rebellion racing shoes. This gives runners considerably more choice than simply selecting between different levels of traditional Mizuno cushioning. Mizuno Wave Rider 30 The Wave Rider 30 (pictured above) sits at the heart of Mizuno's everyday road running range and represents one of the biggest changes to the long established Rider family. It combines nitrogen infused Enerzy NXT cushioning with a full length Wave Plate, introduced to the Rider family for the first time. Mizuno has also changed the geometry substantially. The Wave Rider 30 uses an 8mm drop with a 42.5mm heel and 34.5mm forefoot stack, creating a taller and more modern construction than runners familiar with older Riders may expect. Its role nevertheless remains straightforward. The Rider is designed for everyday running, making it relevant to beginners as well as experienced runners wanting a dependable shoe for regular mileage. Move towards greater cushioning and the Wave Sky 9 becomes relevant, while runners wanting additional stability can investigate the Wave Inspire 22. The Neo family provides another direction for runners wanting a more performance focused high stack experience. Mizuno Wave Sky 9 The Wave Sky 9 is Mizuno's highly cushioned neutral road shoe and provides a more substantial alternative to the Wave Rider. It uses nitrogen infused Enerzy NXT cushioning together with Foam Wave to combine a soft underfoot experience with enough structure for regular training. That makes the Wave Sky particularly relevant for easy runs, longer mileage and runners who enjoy having more cushioning beneath their feet. It is designed around comfort and smooth transitions rather than creating the lightest or most direct running experience. The distinction from the Wave Rider is relatively straightforward. The Rider provides a versatile everyday option, while the Sky moves further towards cushioning and protection for runners who prioritise comfort. The Wave Sky 9 also demonstrates how much Mizuno's traditional running shoe character has changed. Runners who still associate the brand primarily with firmer cushioning may find the modern Sky noticeably different from older Mizuno footwear. Mizuno Wave Inspire 22 The Wave Inspire 22 is one of Mizuno's principal stability road shoes and provides the most obvious supportive alternative to the neutral Wave Rider. This generation has received a substantial redesign rather than simply making small changes to the previous Inspire. The midsole now uses nitrogen infused Enerzy NXT throughout, while the drop has moved from 12mm in the Inspire 21 to 10mm. Mizuno combines the cushioning with a supportive Wave Plate designed to provide additional stability while allowing a smooth transition through the stride. Its role remains everyday running. The Inspire makes sense for runners wanting a regular training shoe with more guidance and support than a neutral model such as the Wave Rider. Runners wanting a more substantial stability shoe can move towards the Wave Horizon 9. The two models therefore provide different levels and styles of support rather than competing for exactly the same runner. Mizuno Wave Horizon 9 The Wave Horizon 9 sits towards the more substantial end of Mizuno's stability collection and is designed around combining generous cushioning with a highly supportive platform. Its midsole uses nitrogen infused Enerzy NXT in the upper layer alongside Enerzy cushioning below. An asymmetrical Wave design and additional support on the inside of the shoe contribute to the stable experience, while the broad construction provides a planted platform beneath the foot. This gives the Horizon a different role from the Wave Inspire 22. The Inspire is the more conventional everyday stability option, while the Horizon moves further towards cushioning and support. The Horizon makes most sense for easy mileage, longer steady running and runners who value a substantial and stable feeling beneath the foot. Those wanting something less substantial are more likely to begin with the Inspire. Mizuno Neo Zen 2 The Neo Zen 2 is part of Mizuno's newer generation of high stack neutral running shoes and provides an alternative to the company's more traditional Wave families. It is designed to combine generous cushioning with a relatively lightweight and responsive running experience. Its role makes it particularly relevant to runners wanting modern cushioning without immediately moving into a specialist racing shoe. Regular mileage can sit alongside faster training, giving the Neo Zen broader versatility than Mizuno's most specialised performance models. The Neo Zen also demonstrates how much Mizuno's road collection has expanded. Runners are no longer choosing solely between different Wave models, with the Neo family offering a noticeably different approach to daily and performance running. Move towards a more substantial performance training shoe and the Neo Vista 3 becomes relevant. Runners wanting a more conventional everyday experience can instead begin with the Wave Rider 30. Mizuno Neo Vista 3 The Neo Vista 3 sits further towards performance training and combines substantial cushioning with geometry designed to create smooth transitions across a range of training speeds. It occupies the space between a conventional daily running shoe and Mizuno's more specialised racing footwear. Long runs and demanding marathon training are among its most obvious uses, particularly for runners wanting substantial cushioning without relying on specialist race shoes for every harder session. Its construction makes it particularly relevant to runners who enjoy the feel of modern high stack performance footwear. Its position is therefore different from both the Wave Rider and Wave Rebellion Pro. The Rider provides the more conventional everyday experience, while the Neo Vista moves further towards faster and longer performance training. The Wave Rebellion range remains the next step for runners specifically looking for specialist race day footwear. That separation helps make the Neo Vista useful as part of a shoe rotation rather than simply treating it as another racing model. Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 3 The Wave Rebellion Pro 3 (pictured below) sits at the specialist end of Mizuno's road running collection and is one of the most distinctive shoes the company produces. It combines performance cushioning with a carbon reinforced Wave Plate and Smooth Speed Assist geometry for faster road racing. Its dramatically shaped sole immediately separates it from conventional road running shoes. The geometry is intended to support efficient running at speed, making the shoe considerably more specialised than a Wave Rider or Neo model. That specialist construction means the Wave Rebellion Pro will not suit every runner equally. Its unusual geometry can feel very different from a conventional road shoe and deserves proper testing during faster training before race day. Consider it if you specifically want Mizuno's specialist racing technology. Runners wanting performance footwear with greater versatility for repeated training are more likely to begin with the Neo family. Mizuno Neo Daichi 10 The Mizuno Neo Daichi 10 is a versatile trail running shoe designed to handle a broad mixture of off road terrain. The change from Wave Daichi to Neo Daichi also reflects Mizuno's move towards a more modern construction for this part of its trail range. The shoe is designed to combine cushioning, protection and grip without becoming an excessively heavy or specialised trail option. This makes it relevant for runners tackling everything from straightforward woodland paths to longer runs across more varied terrain. Its position within the range makes the Neo Daichi 10 a useful option for runners wanting one trail shoe to cover a variety of conditions. The Neo name also brings it closer to Mizuno's newer generation of running footwear rather than simply continuing the established Wave Daichi formula. Runners moving towards longer distances or more demanding terrain can investigate the Wave Mujin 11. The two shoes cover different requirements, with the Neo Daichi 10 providing the more versatile option and the Mujin placing greater emphasis on cushioning, stability and protection. Mizuno Wave Mujin 11 The Wave Mujin 11 moves towards more demanding trail running where cushioning, grip and stability become increasingly important. It uses Enerzy NXT in the upper part of the midsole and a full length Foam Wave construction to provide cushioning while retaining support. Vibram Megagrip provides traction on wet and uneven surfaces, while the upper incorporates a midfoot lacing structure intended to hold the foot securely. These features make the Mujin particularly relevant when terrain and distance place greater demands on the shoe. Its role is noticeably different from the more versatile Neo Daichi 10. Runners spending extended periods on technical trails may value the additional cushioning and support of the Mujin, while those running less demanding routes may prefer the Daichi. Neither model is automatically better. Trail shoes should be chosen according to the terrain and distances you actually run rather than simply selecting the most substantial option available. Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 3 Are Mizuno Running Shoes Good For Beginners? They can be. Mizuno produces several straightforward everyday shoes alongside its more specialised performance footwear, so there is no need for a new runner to begin with one of the brand's racing models. The Wave Rider 30 is one of the clearest places to start because it is designed around versatile everyday mileage. The Wave Sky 9 provides an alternative for runners wanting additional cushioning, while the Wave Inspire 22 offers a route into the range for those who prefer more stability. There is no reason for a beginner to start with a Wave Rebellion simply because it contains some of Mizuno's most specialised technology. A comfortable everyday shoe can cover the majority of early running while you discover what type of cushioning, fit and geometry you prefer. Getting the fit right remains more important than choosing the Mizuno with the greatest amount of cushioning or most advanced performance technology. Comfort during the type of running you actually do should remain the priority. Are Mizuno Running Shoes Sustainable? Mizuno has increased its focus on environmental impact across footwear and its wider sporting goods business. Recycled materials and other environmental measures now appear within parts of the running range, although the exact construction varies considerably between individual models. Sustainability claims should therefore be considered at individual product level. Different Mizuno shoes use different foams, plates, rubbers, textiles and manufacturing processes, so the environmental characteristics of one model should not automatically be applied to the entire range. Durability is also relevant when considering the wider impact of running footwear. A shoe that remains comfortable and functional for an appropriate amount of running may ultimately be more useful than choosing solely according to one material or sustainability claim. Runners particularly interested in this area should check the current specification of the shoe they are considering. Materials and manufacturing processes can change between generations even when the model name remains familiar. Read more about sustainable running shoes here. Are Mizuno Running Shoes Worth Trying? Mizuno is worth considering whether you want a dependable everyday road shoe, greater cushioning, additional stability, modern high stack footwear, specialist racing shoes or trail running footwear. Its range is now considerably broader than the traditional Wave shoes with which many runners still associate the brand. The Wave Rider 30 remains the clearest entry point into the collection, while the Wave Sky 9 increases cushioning and the Wave Inspire 22 and Wave Horizon 9 provide different approaches to additional stability. These established families continue to cover much of the everyday road running range. The Neo family has added a different dimension by bringing modern high stack cushioning and performance geometry into Mizuno's collection. The Neo Zen 2 provides a versatile route into this newer side of the range, while the Neo Vista 3 moves further towards performance training. The Wave Rebellion Pro 3 then moves into specialist racing, while trail runners have distinct choices through the Neo Daichi 10 and Wave Mujin 11. The result is a range capable of covering considerably more types of running than Mizuno's traditional reputation might suggest. Final Thoughts On Mizuno Running Shoes Mizuno has developed considerably since Rihachi and Rizo Mizuno founded their sporting goods business in Osaka in 1906. Its involvement in athletics stretches back almost a century, while the introduction of Mizuno Wave and the Wave Rider during the 1990s helped establish a running shoe identity familiar to generations of runners. That identity is now much broader. Mizuno Wave remains important, but cushioning technologies including Enerzy and Enerzy NXT have allowed the company to produce softer and more responsive footwear alongside its established everyday models. The Wave Rider 30 remains the logical starting point for regular road running, while the Wave Sky 9 provides greater cushioning. The Wave Inspire 22 adds stability, with the Wave Horizon 9 providing a more substantial supportive option. Move towards Mizuno's newer footwear and the Neo Zen 2 and Neo Vista 3 introduce a different approach to high stack daily and performance training. The Wave Rebellion Pro 3 then takes the company's technology towards specialist racing, while the Neo Daichi 10 and Wave Mujin 11 provide distinct options away from the road. The best Mizuno running shoe for you is not necessarily the model with the softest foam, most unusual geometry or most advanced plate. Fit, comfort and whether the shoe matches the type of running you actually need it to handle remain the most useful starting points. Read about other shoe brands here. Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

Choosing where to stay for the Great North Run requires more planning than it does for most half marathons. The race starts in Newcastle and finishes 13.1 miles away in South Shields, so your accommodation cannot be equally convenient at both ends of the course. The Great North Run brings tens of thousands of runners and spectators to the North East every September. Hotels fill quickly, prices rise sharply and many properties require a minimum two night stay over race weekend, making it important to book as soon as your place is confirmed. Book Your Accommodation As Early As Possible Great North Run weekend is one of the busiest times of the year for hotels in Newcastle, Gateshead and South Shields. The most convenient rooms can disappear months before the race, while the accommodation still available becomes considerably more expensive. Do not assume that you will be able to book Saturday night on its own. Many hotels introduce a minimum two night stay for Great North Run weekend, usually covering Friday and Saturday or Saturday and Sunday, and some rates must be paid in full when you book. Always check the total price and conditions before confirming your reservation. A room that initially appears affordable may become much more expensive when you discover that two nights are compulsory or that the booking cannot be cancelled. Flexible cancellation is valuable if you are booking before your travel plans have been finalised. If you find suitable accommodation at a reasonable price, reserving it early is usually safer than waiting for a better deal. Check Great North Run weekend accommodation in Newcastle → Read more about race planning here. Why Great North Run Accommodation Is Different The Great North Run is a point-to-point race rather than an event that starts and finishes in the same place. Runners begin on the central motorway in Newcastle, cross the Tyne Bridge and continue through Gateshead before eventually reaching the finish beside the sea in South Shields. This creates an important decision when choosing accommodation. Staying in Newcastle makes race morning easier, but you will need to travel back from South Shields after finishing, while staying in South Shields gives you a simpler journey after the race but requires an early trip to Newcastle beforehand. The Tyne and Wear Metro and special race day buses usually help connect the start and finish areas. However, services can be extremely busy, particularly after the race when thousands of runners and spectators are trying to leave South Shields. How Many Nights Should You Stay? Two nights is the most practical option for most runners travelling from outside the region. Arriving on Saturday gives you time to check in, organise your kit, understand your journey to the start and eat a suitable evening meal without feeling rushed. Staying on Sunday night can make the experience much more enjoyable. Instead of immediately joining the crowds travelling home with tired legs, you can return to your accommodation, shower, eat properly and celebrate completing the race. A Friday and Saturday booking may suit runners who need to travel home on Sunday. However, you must check whether the hotel will store your luggage after checkout because you will not want to carry it to the start. If your hotel requires a two night minimum, think carefully about which nights will be most useful. Saturday and Sunday normally create the most relaxed race weekend, provided you can arrive early enough on Saturday. Should You Stay Near The Start Or The Finish? Staying near the start in Newcastle is usually the easiest option on race morning. You can eat breakfast at your accommodation and then walk towards the start or make a short journey to Haymarket without having to travel across the region. The disadvantage comes after the race. Once you have collected your medal and belongings in South Shields, you will need to return to Newcastle using public transport with thousands of other runners. Staying near the finish in South Shields reverses the situation. You will need to travel to Newcastle early in the morning, but after finishing you may be able to walk back to your accommodation instead of joining the largest queues. South Shields can be particularly convenient when friends or family are travelling with you. They can base themselves near the finish, enjoy the event village and meet you after the race without everyone immediately needing to travel back to Newcastle. Staying In Newcastle City Centre Newcastle city centre is the most practical all round base for many Great North Run participants, particularly if you want an easier race morning, plenty of restaurants and strong transport connections. The start is north of the city centre, close to the Town Moor. Haymarket is particularly convenient, although accommodation across the central area should leave you with a manageable walk or short journey on race morning. Staying close to Newcastle Central Station can be useful if you plan to travel home after the race. You will still need to allow plenty of time to return from South Shields, collect any luggage left at your hotel and reach your departing train. Newcastle is also the strongest choice if you want to turn the event into a weekend break. Its concentration of shops, restaurants and attractions means that you will not need to make additional journeys once you have checked in. Check accommodation in Newcastle city centre → Staying In Jesmond Jesmond is an excellent option for runners who want to be relatively close to the start without staying in the busiest part of Newcastle city centre. It has a good selection of hotels and guest houses, as well as restaurants, cafés and Metro stations. Depending on the location of your accommodation, you may be able to walk to the start or make a short journey towards Haymarket. This can create a calmer race morning while keeping you close enough to enjoy central Newcastle during the rest of the weekend. Check the precise address before booking because accommodation described as being in Jesmond can cover a fairly wide area. Confirm the walking distance to the start or the nearest Metro station rather than relying on the neighbourhood name. Check accommodation around Jesmond → Staying In Gateshead Gateshead can offer better value than central Newcastle, especially after city-centre prices have started to increase. Hotels around Gateshead Quays also place you close to the Tyne Bridge, which runners cross near the beginning of the race. You will need to travel into Newcastle for the start, so check how easily you can reach Haymarket or the start area on Sunday morning. A hotel near a Metro station is usually more useful than cheaper accommodation that requires several changes or a taxi. Gateshead can work particularly well for runners travelling by car because some hotels provide parking. Race-day road closures still mean that you should plan to use public transport or walk for the final part of your journey to the start. Check accommodation in Gateshead → Staying In South Shields South Shields is the best choice if your priority is an easy journey after the race. The finish is on the seafront, and staying within walking distance allows you to avoid the busiest return journey when your legs are tired. The area has hotels, guest houses, bed and breakfasts and self-catering properties, but availability is more limited than in Newcastle. Accommodation close to the seafront is particularly popular and often comes with a minimum two-night requirement. Race morning requires careful planning because you must travel to the start in Newcastle. Metro services and dedicated buses may be available, but you should check the official 2027 travel information when it is published and allow considerably more time than the normal journey requires. South Shields is also the most convenient base for supporters who want to watch the finish. They can reach the seafront early, enjoy the atmosphere and meet you after you have collected your medal and belongings. Check accommodation in South Shields → Souter Lighthouse near South Shields Staying In Sunderland Sunderland can be a useful alternative when accommodation in Newcastle and South Shields is unavailable or prohibitively expensive. It has a reasonable selection of hotels and is connected to the Tyne and Wear Metro network. The journey to the start will be longer, while returning from South Shields may require a change of Metro service. Staying close to a station is therefore essential if you choose Sunderland as your base. Do not select a hotel based solely on the distance shown on a map. Road closures and congestion can make taxis and car journeys unpredictable, so a straightforward public transport route is more important than geographical distance. Check accommodation in Sunderland → Staying In Durham Durham is another possible alternative when accommodation closer to the race has become too expensive. It has a wide range of hotels and direct rail connections to Newcastle, but it is considerably less convenient on race morning. Before booking, check whether Sunday morning trains will get you to Newcastle with plenty of time to spare. Timetables, engineering work and race-day demand can all affect the journey, so you need a reliable alternative if the rail service is disrupted. Durham is better suited to runners staying for the full weekend than those planning to arrive and leave around the race. It provides an attractive base for a longer visit, but convenience on race day should remain the priority. Check accommodation in Durham → Durham is a great place for a weekend getaway Choose Accommodation Near Public Transport The location of the nearest Metro or railway station can matter more than the name of the town or neighbourhood. Accommodation with a straightforward route to both Newcastle and South Shields will make the entire weekend easier. Check the complete journey rather than looking only at how you will reach the start. You also need to understand how you will return from South Shields, particularly if your luggage is being stored at a hotel in Newcastle or Gateshead. Normal Sunday journey times may not reflect conditions during the Great North Run. Stations, platforms and buses become extremely busy, so allow additional time and avoid making tight connections. Check Breakfast, Checkout And Luggage Storage Standard hotel breakfast times may be too late for runners who need to reach the start early. Ask whether the hotel provides an early breakfast, takeaway option or suitable food that can be collected the previous evening. Self catering accommodation can make race morning nutrition easier because you can prepare familiar food at the time you need it. Check what kitchen facilities are actually provided rather than assuming that every apartment will contain the equipment you require. You should also confirm the Sunday checkout time and whether luggage storage is available. A late checkout can be extremely useful, particularly in South Shields, but it may need to be arranged and paid for in advance. Read about race day nutrition here. How To Find The Best Accommodation Search across Newcastle city centre, Jesmond, Gateshead and South Shields rather than limiting yourself to hotels advertised specifically for the Great North Run. Sunderland and Durham can provide additional choices, but only when their transport connections work with your race-day plans. Compare Great North Run accommodation and current prices → Compare the total cost of the booking rather than the advertised price per night. Minimum stays, breakfast charges, parking, cancellation restrictions and transport costs can make an apparently inexpensive option less attractive. Booking directly with a hotel may provide more flexible terms or clearer information about Great North Run arrangements. Comparison websites are useful for checking availability, but you should still read the complete booking conditions before paying. Official Great North Run accommodation packages may also become available. Some include transport to the start or from the finish, which could justify the additional cost if you want the main logistics organised for you. How Much Should You Budget? Accommodation prices rise substantially for Great North Run weekend, particularly in Newcastle city centre, Jesmond and South Shields. For the 2026 race, official accommodation was advertised from £75 per person, but this represented the cheapest available option rather than the typical cost of a centrally located hotel. One runner paid £416 for two nights at the Hampton by Hilton beside Newcastle Central Station, including breakfast. An organised two night package outside Newcastle was advertised at £225 per person based on two people sharing, with a £50 single-room supplement and coach travel included. These examples suggest that a solo runner could realistically spend £200 to £450 or more for two nights, depending on the location, room type and booking date. Two people sharing may reduce the cost per person, but minimum stay rules can still make the overall booking expensive. Prices for 2027 may be higher, particularly once the ballot results are announced and demand increases. Staying farther from Newcastle can reduce the accommodation cost, but any saving should be balanced against longer journeys and more complicated race day transport. Be Careful With Private Rentals Private rentals can provide more space and may offer good value for families or groups. However, major event weekends can bring a greater risk of late cancellations, leaving runners searching for replacement accommodation when prices are at their highest. Book through a recognised platform, check recent reviews and never make payment outside the official booking system. Confirm the address, cancellation conditions and check in arrangements well before you travel. Treat prices that are dramatically lower than comparable accommodation with caution. Fraud or a last minute cancellation can be especially damaging during Great North Run weekend because finding a suitable replacement may be extremely difficult. Where To Stay For The Great North Run 2027 Newcastle city centre is the best all round choice for most runners because it offers a simple race morning, plenty of restaurants and strong transport connections. Jesmond is ideal for staying closer to the start, while South Shields is the strongest option if you want the easiest possible journey after finishing. Gateshead, Sunderland and Durham can provide useful alternatives, but transport connections matter more than distance alone. Wherever you stay, check the journey to Newcastle before the race, the return from South Shields and whether the property requires a minimum two-night booking. The Great North Run is one of the world’s most memorable half marathons, and good accommodation planning will help you enjoy the entire weekend. Book early, read every condition carefully and choose a base that makes both race morning and your post-race recovery as straightforward as possible. Read our 2027 Great North Run Guide here. Compare Great North Run accommodation and current prices → Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Great North Run is unlike almost any other half marathon. Every September, tens of thousands of runners gather in Newcastle upon Tyne before setting off on a 13.1 mile journey across the Tyne Bridge, through Gateshead and eventually towards the North Sea and the famous finish in South Shields. It is one of the world's biggest half marathons, but size alone does not explain its popularity. The Great North Run combines elite racing with mass participation, enormous charity fundraising and extraordinary support from communities across the North East. The event has grown from around 12,000 runners at the inaugural race in 1981 to a field of more than 60,000 today. For some runners it is a race they want to complete once in their lifetime, while for others it becomes an annual tradition. First time half marathon runners line up alongside experienced club runners, charity fundraisers, costume runners and some of the best distance athletes in the world. Why Run The Great North Run? There are hundreds of half marathons to choose from, but relatively few provide an experience on the scale of the Great North Run. Race weekend takes over Newcastle and the surrounding area, with runners travelling from across the UK and overseas to take part. The start is one of the defining moments. Thousands of runners assemble on Newcastle's Central Motorway before beginning the journey towards South Shields, and within the opening part of the race comes the moment most have been waiting for: crossing the Tyne Bridge surrounded by a sea of other participants. Then there are the crowds. The Great North Run has developed a reputation for extraordinary local support, and the communities along the route are an important part of the event. The atmosphere changes as runners leave Newcastle and Gateshead behind and gradually make their way towards the coast. It isn't necessarily the race to choose if your only objective is running the fastest possible half marathon. If you want a running experience that you are likely to remember for years, however, there are few half marathons that can compete with it. Newcastle: The Destination The Great North Run is also an excellent excuse to spend a weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne. The city is compact enough to explore easily while offering plenty of restaurants, nightlife, culture and history for runners and anyone travelling with them. The Quayside is an obvious place to start. The River Tyne and its bridges dominate this part of Newcastle, and seeing the Tyne Bridge before race day gives you a very different perspective on the landmark you will soon be running across. Newcastle Castle provides a connection with the city's history, while football supporters may want to visit St James' Park. Across the river, Gateshead is home to attractions including BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art and The Glasshouse International Centre for Music. If you are extending your trip, the North East coastline is also worth exploring. Tynemouth and its beaches are within easy reach, while South Shields itself becomes part of your Great North Run experience when you arrive there at the end of the race. Accommodation is one thing not to leave until the last minute. An event involving more than 60,000 runners creates enormous demand across the region, so booking somewhere to stay as soon as your place is confirmed makes sense. The History Of The Great North Run The Great North Run was the idea of British Olympic medallist Sir Brendan Foster. After experiencing the Round the Bays event in Auckland, New Zealand, Foster saw the potential for a major mass participation road race in his native North East. The first Great North Run took place on 28 June 1981, when around 12,000 runners participated. What began as an ambitious new running event subsequently developed into the world's biggest half marathon, with more than a million people having completed the journey from Newcastle to South Shields. The race has also become closely associated with charity fundraising. Thousands of runners take part for causes that matter to them every year, generating millions of pounds and making fundraising as much a part of the event's identity as the elite race at the front. Some of the greatest distance runners in history have competed here, while the race has also received a World Athletics Heritage Plaque in recognition of its contribution to the sport. More than four decades after that first event, the Great North Run has become part of British running culture. When Is The Great North Run 2027? The AJ Bell Great North Run 2027 takes place on Sunday 12 September 2027. The date has already been confirmed by the organisers, giving runners plenty of time to plan their entry, accommodation and training. The detailed 2027 race timetable will be released closer to the event. The Great North Run includes separate elite and wheelchair starts before the huge mass participation field gets underway, with runners divided into waves to manage the enormous number of people taking part. Great North Run Race Morning Race morning requires more planning than it does at many smaller half marathons. The Great North Run is a point-to-point event, which means the start and finish are 13.1 miles apart and you need to think about your transport before arriving in Newcastle. The start is on Newcastle's Central Motorway, close to Claremont Road, with Haymarket the nearest Metro station. Runners are divided into waves and allocated arrival and assembly information, helping the organisers move tens of thousands of people into position before the race begins. Don't plan to arrive at the last minute. Road closures, busy public transport and the sheer number of runners mean everything takes longer than it would on a normal Sunday morning, and your final 2027 race instructions should always take priority over arrangements used in previous years. It is also worth giving yourself enough time to enjoy the start. Seeing the motorway filled with thousands of runners is part of the Great North Run experience, and the anticipation before everyone begins the journey towards South Shields is one of the great moments of the weekend. Everyone in Newcastle gets behind the runners! The Great North Run Course: Newcastle To South Shields The Great North Run follows a point-to-point route from Newcastle upon Tyne to the coast at South Shields. That journey from city to sea is fundamental to the character of the event because, rather than circling back towards the place where you started, you are continually travelling towards a completely different destination. The course starts on Newcastle's Central Motorway before runners cross the Tyne Bridge and head through Gateshead. It is not a completely flat half marathon, and the combination of several climbs with the excitement and congestion of such a large event makes sensible pacing important. The Start And Tyne Bridge Few half marathons have an opening landmark as recognisable as the Tyne Bridge. After leaving the Central Motorway, runners head towards the bridge and cross the River Tyne into Gateshead, surrounded by thousands of other participants and views across one of Britain's most recognisable cityscapes. It is worth allowing yourself to enjoy the moment rather than becoming obsessed with your watch. It can also be a dangerous point from a pacing perspective because fresh legs, enormous crowds and the excitement of finally starting make it very easy to run considerably faster than planned. There are still plenty of miles ahead once you leave the bridge behind. Settle into your planned pace afterwards and give yourself the opportunity to run the second half of the race properly. Through Gateshead And Towards The Coast Once across the Tyne, the race continues through Gateshead and begins the long journey towards South Shields. The early part of the course includes a gradual climb between approximately miles three and five before runners eventually encounter a downhill section towards mile eight. This is where patience starts to become important. The spectacular opening is behind you and the Great North Run gradually becomes a half marathon that needs to be managed rather than simply an enormous celebration. Crowd support remains one of its defining features throughout the journey. Local residents and spectators have been part of the character of the Great North Run for decades, turning sections of the route into a celebration rather than simply somewhere runners pass through. The Toughest Miles The later stages deserve particular respect because the course includes a sustained uphill section between approximately miles eight and 12. It comes at exactly the point where a half marathon naturally starts becoming harder, and runners who have been carried away by the opening atmosphere can pay for it here. This is why training on hills and controlling your early pace can make such a difference. If you have prepared properly and kept something back during the opening miles, the climb towards the coast becomes much more manageable. The Final Mile Into South Shields At around mile 12 comes one of the Great North Run's signature moments as runners get their first glimpse of the North Sea. After spending much of the later race climbing towards the coast, the route finally drops downhill towards South Shields before turning towards the seafront and the finish. The crowds build again, the sea appears and suddenly the finish that seemed a long way away in Newcastle is almost within reach. The final section along the seafront provides a fitting end to the journey, and whatever time appears on your watch, completing 13.1 miles from Newcastle to South Shields is an achievement worth enjoying. Is The Great North Run A Fast Course? The Great North Run has produced extraordinary elite performances, but that doesn't necessarily make it the ideal personal best course for the average runner. The route isn't flat, particularly during the sustained climbing in the latter stages, while the enormous field can also make maintaining an exact pace difficult. None of that means you cannot run quickly. A runner starting in an appropriate wave, training for the course and pacing sensibly can certainly produce a good time, but there are flatter and less congested half marathons if achieving a personal best is your only priority. For most runners, that isn't really the point of coming here. The Great North Run is about experiencing the Tyne Bridge, the crowds, the journey towards the coast and the extraordinary scale of the event as much as it is about the number on the clock. Water, Support And The Course An event on this scale requires substantial infrastructure, from hydration and medical support to volunteers and entertainment. Exact arrangements can change between editions, so runners should check the final 2027 event information for the location of water stations and other course facilities rather than assuming they will be identical to previous years. The other form of support requires no event guide. Spectators are integral to the Great North Run experience, with local communities embracing the event and providing encouragement to runners throughout the journey towards South Shields. There will inevitably be quieter stretches on a 13.1 mile point-to-point course, and these are often the sections where you need to concentrate on your own race. The contrast between those stretches and the areas packed with supporters is part of what gives the course its character. Read about race day nutrition here. Getting Back From South Shields This is one of the most important pieces of Great North Run planning for anyone who hasn't done the event before. You start in Newcastle and finish 13.1 miles away in South Shields, so once you have crossed the finish line, collected your medal and met friends or family, you still need to get back to your accommodation or onward transport. South Shields Metro station provides a route back towards Newcastle, with additional transport arrangements normally operating around the event. Tens of thousands of runners and spectators are trying to move around the area at the same time, however, so don't expect to finish and immediately disappear. Arrange where you will meet friends and family before the race rather than relying entirely on mobile phones after finishing. Large crowds can make communication more difficult, and having a clear meeting point can save a lot of unnecessary wandering around on tired legs. Most importantly, build some time into your plans. Don't book something in Newcastle that requires you to be back at a precise time shortly after finishing because leaving South Shields is part of the logistics of running the Great North Run. Is The Great North Run Suitable For Beginners? The Great North Run can be an excellent first half marathon. You won't be alone, you won't be short of encouragement and you certainly won't feel as though the event is intended only for experienced club runners, because the field includes everyone from international elites to people completing their first significant running challenge. The atmosphere can make 13.1 miles feel more achievable, but it cannot replace training. Beginners still need to build their running gradually and arrive prepared for both the distance and a course that contains enough climbing to punish anyone who has underestimated it. Training on some hills is particularly worthwhile. You don't need to spend every session running up steep climbs, but including undulating routes in your preparation will leave you better equipped for the later stages between Gateshead and South Shields. The other challenge for beginners is restraint. Thousands of excited runners, cheering crowds and the Tyne Bridge can make the first couple of miles feel effortless, but running those miles too quickly can make the final section towards the coast considerably harder. Charity support is everywhere Running The Great North Run For Charity Charity fundraising isn't a small addition to the Great North Run; it is one of the things that defines the event. Thousands of participants run for causes that matter to them every year, collectively raising millions of pounds and turning the race into one of Britain's biggest annual fundraising occasions. Charity places are also an important alternative for runners who don't secure a ballot entry. Individual charities offer guaranteed entries in return for runners committing to raise an agreed amount, although fundraising targets and registration arrangements vary between organisations. If you secure your own ballot place, you can still fundraise without taking one of a charity's allocated entries. This gives you the freedom to choose a cause that matters to you while keeping your race place independent of your fundraising commitment. The Great North Run is particularly well suited to fundraising because almost everyone understands the scale of the challenge. Your training provides months of opportunities to tell your story, involve supporters and build towards race day, while the event itself gives your fundraising a recognisable focal point. Read more about applying for a charity entry in an event here. How To Enter The Great North Run 2027 Demand for the Great North Run is enormous, so securing a place normally requires entering a ballot or applying for a charity entry. The September ballot for the 2027 AJ Bell Great North Run closed on 20 September 2026 and has now been drawn. Everyone who applied should have received an email confirming whether they were successful. Runners who missed out will have another opportunity through the January ballot. The organiser has not yet announced its exact opening and closing dates, but you can register for a reminder through the official Great North Run website. Do not assume that an unsuccessful application from September will be entered automatically because a new application will be required. Charity places are also available through participating organisations. These normally provide guaranteed entry in return for an agreed fundraising commitment, although registration fees, application requirements and minimum targets vary between charities. New Great North Run memberships for 2027 and 2028 have now sold out. Existing members with entry rights for 2027 will receive instructions explaining how to claim and pay for their place. For everyone else, the January ballot or an official charity place provides the clearest remaining route onto the start line. Where To Stay For The Great North Run For most visitors, Newcastle is the obvious place to base yourself. Staying in or close to the city centre gives you straightforward access to restaurants and everything happening during race weekend while putting you on the correct side of the point-to-point course for race morning. South Shields can make sense in particular circumstances, especially if you have friends or family there, but remember that your morning then begins with travelling to Newcastle for the start. Whichever option you choose, booking early is sensible because more than 60,000 participants plus their supporters create enormous demand for accommodation across the region. It is also worth thinking about Sunday night rather than only where you will stay before the race. If your schedule allows it, staying until Monday turns race evening into part of the experience rather than a frantic attempt to collect your belongings, travel back from South Shields and immediately begin a long journey home. Read our guide on where to stay here. Compare Great North Run accommodation and current prices → What Makes The Great North Run Special? The Great North Run has many of the ingredients found at other major races, but few events combine them quite like this. There is the scale of the start, the Tyne Bridge, the journey through the North East, the crowds, the charities and the eventual arrival at the sea. There is also a sense that the event belongs to the communities it passes through rather than simply taking place on their roads. That relationship between runners and the North East has developed over more than four decades and is one of the reasons people return year after year. You can run plenty of half marathons that are smaller, flatter and easier to organise around. Very few will give you the feeling of being part of something quite this big, which is why the Great North Run continues to sit on so many runners' bucket lists. Our Verdict: Is The Great North Run Worth Doing? The Great North Run deserves its reputation as one of the world's great running events. It isn't simply the size of the race that makes it special; it is the combination of Newcastle, the Tyne Bridge, the crowds, the charities, the journey towards the North Sea and that finish in South Shields. It isn't perfect. The enormous field means congestion is inevitable, accommodation can be expensive, getting away from South Shields requires patience and there are faster courses if a personal best is your only priority. But removing those things would also remove much of what makes the event what it is. For first time half marathon runners, experienced runners and charity fundraisers alike, the Great North Run offers an experience that is difficult to reproduce anywhere else. Our verdict is simple: this is a must-do half marathon. If you've never experienced the Great North Run, 2027 could be the year to change that. Race Website https://www.greatrun.org/events/great-north-run/ Have A Listen Ben and Kat both reviewed the Great North Run on our podcast series Bitten By The Running Bug. Listen to Ben's here and Kat's here.

Buying running shoes often starts with a familiar brand name, but the name on the box tells you only so much. One brand may offer a comfortable shoe for everyday road runs and a very different model for racing, while another specialises in grip for muddy trails or rocky mountain paths. This guide looks at the major running shoe brands and some less familiar names worth knowing. For each, we explain what the brand is known for and highlight shoes that show the range of its approach. If one catches your interest, you can follow through to our full guide to explore its models in more detail. Asics Asics is one of the world's most respected running shoe brands and has been producing high-quality footwear for more than 75 years. The company is renowned for combining comfort, durability and support, making it a favourite among everyone from first time runners to experienced marathon athletes. Its most popular neutral shoe is the Gel-Nimbus, which is widely regarded as one of the best cushioned shoes available. For runners who need extra support, the Gel-Kayano remains one of the most popular stability shoes ever produced. Read our full guide: Asics Explained Brooks Brooks focuses almost exclusively on running, allowing the company to refine its range around the needs of runners. The brand has built an excellent reputation for producing comfortable, reliable shoes that perform consistently over many miles. The Ghost is Brooks' best-selling neutral running shoe and is often recommended for runners looking for a dependable daily running shoe. The Adrenaline GTS has become one of the world's best-known stability shoes thanks to its supportive yet comfortable ride. Read our full guide: Brooks Explained Hoka Hoka revolutionised the running shoe market with its highly cushioned midsoles and lightweight designs. Once associated mainly with ultra runners, the brand is now worn by runners of every ability and has become one of the fastest growing names in running. The Clifton is Hoka's most popular neutral shoe, offering lightweight cushioning for everyday training. Runners requiring additional support often choose the Arahi, which combines stability with the brand's signature cushioning. Read our full guide: Hoka Explained New Balance New Balance has become one of the world's leading running shoe manufacturers by combining innovative cushioning with excellent comfort. The brand is particularly popular among runners who need shoes available in different widths. Its flagship neutral model is the Fresh Foam X 1080, while the Fresh Foam X 860 is the company's best known stability shoe and remains a popular choice for runners seeking additional support. Read our full guide: New Balance Explained Nike Nike has helped shape modern distance running through continual innovation and the development of some of the most recognisable running shoes ever produced. While many runners associate the brand with elite racing, Nike also offers an excellent range of everyday running shoes. The Pegasus has been Nike's most popular neutral running shoe for decades, providing versatility for almost every type of run. The Structure is the brand's long-standing stability model, offering additional support without sacrificing comfort. Read our full guide: Nike Explained adidas adidas has remained one of the biggest names in running through continuous innovation in cushioning and performance technology. Its shoes are equally popular with recreational runners and elite athletes competing around the world. The Supernova Rise has become adidas' leading neutral shoe, while the Supernova Solution offers extra support for runners who benefit from stability features. Read our full guide: adidas Explained Saucony Saucony has earned a loyal following by producing comfortable, versatile running shoes suitable for almost every type of runner. Its range includes highly cushioned shoes as well as some of the most respected racing shoes on the market. The Ride is Saucony's best-selling neutral shoe and is admired for its balanced cushioning and durability. The Guide provides additional support for runners who require a stability shoe without feeling overly restrictive. Read our full guide: Saucony Explained Mizuno Mizuno combines traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern running technology. The company's Wave Plate system has become one of the most recognisable stability technologies in the industry and continues to evolve with every generation. The Wave Rider remains Mizuno's most popular neutral shoe, while the Wave Inspire is its leading stability model and has developed a loyal following among runners seeking additional support. Read our full guide: Mizuno Explained On Swiss brand On has grown rapidly thanks to its distinctive CloudTec cushioning system and premium build quality. The company has attracted runners looking for a lightweight, responsive shoe that performs equally well during training and everyday wear. The Cloudsurfer is currently the brand's most popular neutral running shoe, while the Cloudrunner is designed for runners who need additional stability and support. Read our full guide: On Explained Altra Altra is best known for its FootShape toe box and zero drop philosophy, encouraging a more natural foot position during running. The brand has become particularly popular among trail runners and those who enjoy a more natural running experience. The Torin is Altra's flagship neutral road running shoe, while the Provision offers additional guidance for runners who require extra stability without losing the brand's natural feel. Read our full guide: Altra Explained Puma Puma has re-established itself as a serious player in the running shoe market thanks to its successful Nitro foam technology. The brand now produces highly regarded shoes for training, racing and everyday running. The Velocity Nitro is Puma's most popular neutral shoe and provides an excellent balance of cushioning and responsiveness. The ForeverRun Nitro is its leading stability model, designed to provide extra support while maintaining a smooth ride. Read our full guide: Puma Explained Under Armour Under Armour continues to invest heavily in running footwear, producing shoes designed for comfort, durability and everyday performance. While it may not have the same heritage as some older brands, it has built a loyal following among many runners. The Infinite is the company's leading neutral running shoe, while the Infinite Pro provides additional support for runners seeking greater stability during training. Read our full guide: Under Armour Explained Salomon Salomon is best known for trail running shoes, with a wide range covering everything from easier mixed terrain to technical mountain running. The brand also produces an expanding selection of road running shoes. The Speedcross is one of Salomon's best-known trail shoes, while the Sense Ride provides a more versatile option across different surfaces. Its road range includes models designed for everyday training and faster running. Read our full guide: Salomon Explained Running Shoe Brands You Might Be Less Familiar With There are also several running shoe brands that may be less familiar but are well worth considering. Some have a long history in running, while others are becoming increasingly visible as their ranges expand into everyday training and performance footwear. 361° 361° is a major Chinese sportswear brand with a growing presence in international running. Its range covers everyday training, cushioning and performance shoes, making it an interesting alternative to the more familiar global brands. The Centauri is one of its everyday neutral running shoes, while the Flame range includes the brand's faster performance and carbon-plated racing models. Read our full guide: 361° Explained Diadora Italian brand Diadora has a long sporting heritage and has become increasingly serious about performance running footwear. Its modern range combines Italian design with contemporary cushioning technologies for training and faster running. The Nucleo is one of its cushioned everyday running shoes, while models in the Gara range are designed for faster running and racing. Read our full guide: Diadora Explained Topo Athletic Topo Athletic is known for combining a roomy anatomical toe box with a secure midfoot and heel. The brand also uses relatively low heel-to-toe drops across much of its range and produces shoes for both road and trail running. The Phantom is one of Topo's cushioned neutral road shoes, while the Ultrafly provides additional guidance and support for runners who want a more stable ride. Read our full guide: Topo Athletic Explained Craft Craft is a Swedish endurance sports brand that has developed a growing range of running shoes for road, racing and trail running. Its footwear uses technologies including Px Foam and Cr Foam Pro, while several models are designed to work across a mixture of road, gravel and trail surfaces. The Endurance is one of Craft's main everyday road running shoes, while the Nordlite range covers faster training and racing. Craft also produces the Xplor for mixed terrain running and Pure Trail models for more dedicated off road use. Read our full guide: Craft Explained True Motion True Motion is a German running shoe brand known for its distinctive U-Tech technology, which uses a U-shaped midsole construction rather than dividing its range into traditional neutral and stability shoes. The Nevos 4 is the brand's versatile everyday running shoe, while the Aion 4 provides additional cushioning for longer runs and the Solo 2 is designed for faster training and racing. Read our full guide: True Motion Explained Inov8 Inov8 is a British running shoe brand founded in the Lake District, with a particularly strong reputation for trail, fell and mountain running. Its shoes are designed around different types of terrain, from hard packed trails and rocky paths to deep mud and soft ground. The range now extends beyond specialist trail shoes, with Roadfly providing options for road runners alongside Trailfly, Trailtalon and Mudtalon for off road running. Inov8 is also known for technologies including its NaturalFit shoe shape and graphene enhanced outsole rubber. Read our full guide: Inov8 Explained Kiprun Kiprun is Decathlon’s running brand, with shoes for road, trail and track. Its range stretches from everyday training shoes to carbon plated racing models, giving runners options for both regular miles and faster efforts. For road running, the Kipride and Kipstorm ranges cover different levels of cushioning and speed. Kiprun also makes trail shoes, including models designed for racing on more demanding terrain. Read our full guide: Kiprun Explained Karhu Karhu is a Finnish sports brand with a road running range built around its Fulcrum technology. The design aims to help the foot roll smoothly from landing through to toe off. The cushioned Mestari Run, versatile Ikoni and more responsive Fusion give runners different ways into the range. Karhu also offers some models in wider fitting versions. Read our full guide: Karhu Explained Skechers Skechers makes more than everyday footwear. Its performance running range includes shoes for comfortable training miles and faster sessions, with the Aero collection now central to its road running offer. Models such as Aero Burst and Aero Spark combine responsive cushioning with different levels of support and propulsion. The range is worth a look if you know Skechers for its casual shoes, but have not explored its running models. Read our full guide: Skechers Explained Icebug Icebug is a Swedish footwear brand best known for grip in difficult conditions. Its running shoes cover trails, wet surfaces and winter terrain, including studded models designed for ice. Grip varies across the range, so the right Icebug shoe depends on where you run. RB9X rubber appears on road and trail models, while BUGrip uses studs for icy conditions. Read our full guide: Icebug Explained Hylo Hylo is a running shoe brand that puts material choices and environmental impact at the centre of its approach. Its road running shoes are designed to perform as everyday running footwear while using materials selected with a lower impact in mind. The Impact range focuses on neutral road runners who want cushioning for regular training. Hylo’s approach may appeal to runners interested in how their shoes are made as well as how they feel on a run. Read our full guide: Hylo Explained Merrell Merrell has a strong outdoor footwear background, and trail running is the main focus of its running shoe range. Its models cover everything from easier paths to rugged routes and longer days off road. Agility Peak provides cushioning and protection for longer trail runs, while Merrell’s MTL range is developed for performance on more demanding terrain. The brand also offers shoes for runners who prefer a closer feel for the ground. Read our full guide: Merrell Explained Scarpa Scarpa brings its mountain footwear experience to trail running. Its shoes are designed for varied terrain, from longer runs on established trails to rocky routes where a secure fit and precise footing matter. The Spin Planet offers an option for longer distances, while the Ribelle Run range focuses more on protection and control over technical ground. Choosing between them starts with the terrain you run most often. Read our full guide: Scarpa Explained La Sportiva La Sportiva is an Italian mountain sports brand with a strong reputation in trail and mountain running. Its shoes are built for surfaces that can change quickly, from firm paths to steep, rocky ground. The Prodigio range provides more cushioning for longer outings, while Bushido is aimed at runners seeking a secure feel on technical terrain. Its FriXion outsole compounds are a distinctive part of the range. Read our full guide: La Sportiva Explained Mount To Coast Mount to Coast has built its running shoe range around long distance comfort. Its road shoes include the R1 for racing and extended efforts, the S1 for daily training and the P1 for runners seeking additional guidance. The range has since expanded beyond roads, with shoes for mixed surfaces and trails. That gives runners interested in the brand’s distance focused approach more options for where they run. Read our full guide: Mount To Coast Explained Which Running Shoe Brand Is Best? There is no single brand that is best for every runner. The most important factor is finding a shoe that fits your feet properly, suits your running style and provides the right level of cushioning or support for your gait. Some runners find stability features more comfortable, but overpronation alone does not mean you need a stability shoe. Try different models, pay attention to fit and comfort, and consider advice from a specialist running shop if you are unsure. Read more about gait analysis here. Final Thoughts Every major running shoe brand offers excellent options for today's runners, and each has developed its own technologies and design philosophy. Rather than asking which brand is the best, it is often more useful to ask which brand produces the shoe that best matches your individual needs. You should also think about sustainability. You can find more about that here. The brands featured here have earned their reputations by helping millions of runners enjoy their training. Explore our individual guides for each manufacturer to learn more about their history, latest technologies and the models that could become your next favourite pair of running shoes. Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Peachtree Road Race 2027 takes place in Atlanta, Georgia, on July 4 and will once again bring together tens of thousands of runners and walkers for one of the biggest mass participation running events in the world. Starting in Buckhead and finishing beside Piedmont Park, the 10K has become an important part of Independence Day celebrations in Atlanta. First held in 1970, the Peachtree has grown from 110 finishers into an event with 60,000 registered participants. Atlanta Track Club describes it as the world's largest 10K, but its appeal goes beyond its enormous size. The combination of Atlanta's enthusiastic crowds, a challenging course, the famous Cardiac Hill and more than half a century of race traditions makes this one of America's great road races. The Destination Atlanta is the capital of Georgia and one of the major cities of the southern United States. It is an important business and transport centre, but there is also plenty to see away from the race, making the Peachtree a good event to combine with a longer visit to the city. Atlanta played an important role in the American civil rights movement and was the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr. Visitors can explore the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, while other major attractions include the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola. The city also hosted the 1996 Olympic Games, a legacy that remains an important part of Atlanta's sporting history. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport makes the city relatively straightforward to reach from elsewhere in the United States and internationally. Once in Atlanta, MARTA provides useful rail connections around the city and becomes particularly important on race morning because of the extensive road closures around the Peachtree course. The biggest consideration for visiting runners is likely to be the weather. Atlanta in July can be hot and humid, and runners arriving from cooler climates should not underestimate the difference this can make. The race starts early in the morning, but conditions can still have a significant effect on how a 10K feels. History Of The Peachtree Road Race The first Peachtree Road Race was held on July 4, 1970. Around 150 runners gathered for the inaugural event and 110 completed the 6.2-mile route through Atlanta. Those finishers became known as the Original 110. The race expanded remarkably quickly as recreational running became increasingly popular across the United States. One of the Peachtree's most famous traditions also began almost immediately, with the first race T-shirts handed out to finishers in 1971. As participation increased, the event outgrew its original finish area. The finish moved to Piedmont Park in 1978 to accommodate a field that had already grown beyond 12,500 runners. The race was capped at 25,000 in 1980, increased to 40,000 in 1990 and continued growing over subsequent decades before the limit reached 60,000 in 2011. Throughout that growth, the July 4 date has remained central to the Peachtree's identity. Generations of Atlanta residents have built the race into their Independence Day celebrations, whether they are running, volunteering or watching from the roadside. Peachtree Road Race 2027 The Peachtree Road Race 2027 will take place on Sunday, July 4, 2027. Unlike many races that move around the calendar to remain on a particular day of the week, the Peachtree is held on Independence Day itself. The event is a 10K and attracts everyone from elite athletes to recreational runners and walkers. With 60,000 registered participants when operating at full capacity, its scale is unusual even among major international road races. Northside Hospital became the title partner in 2026, with the event now officially known as the Northside Hospital Peachtree Road Race. Atlanta Track Club continues to organise the race as part of its much wider programme of running, walking and community activities. The Peachtree Health & Fitness Expo The Peachtree Health & Fitness Expo takes place immediately before race day and is where many runners collect their race numbers. It also brings together running brands, event partners and race information, making it part of the wider Peachtree experience rather than simply somewhere to pick up a bib. For 2026 the Expo moved to Lenox Square, close to the start of the race, where it was held in the Macy's parking area. That makes the Expo particularly convenient for runners staying in Buckhead, although anyone travelling for the Peachtree Road Race 2027 should check the confirmed location and opening times when the organisers release the final arrangements. There is no reason to assume that every operational detail will remain identical from one year to the next, so travelling runners should check the 2027 race number collection arrangements before booking flights and accommodation. Arriving in Atlanta early also gives you the opportunity to experience the Expo without having to rush immediately before race day. Read more about race day expos here. Race Morning With tens of thousands of people heading towards the same part of Atlanta, Peachtree race morning requires more planning than a typical 10K. The start is in Buckhead near Lenox Square and MARTA is generally the easiest way to get there, particularly because of the extensive road closures surrounding the event. The race uses a wave start system, with wave allocation based on performance. In recent editions, runners have been able to submit an eligible qualifying performance when registering, while those without an accepted qualifying time have been allocated to later waves. Runners who are placed in different waves can move backwards to run with somebody in a later wave, but cannot simply move forward into a faster one. With such a large field, it is worth knowing your start arrangements before leaving your accommodation rather than trying to sort everything out once you arrive. The weather should also be part of your race-morning planning. Atlanta can already be warm and humid early in the day during July, so hydrate sensibly, wear appropriate kit and be prepared to adjust your target pace if conditions are difficult. Exact start times, wave arrangements and transport instructions for the Peachtree Road Race 2027 should be checked when Atlanta Track Club publishes its final race-day information. Peachtree Road Race 2027 Course The Peachtree is a point to point 10K that takes runners from Buckhead to Midtown Atlanta before finishing in Piedmont Park. The race starts near Lenox Square and much of the route follows Peachtree Road and Peachtree Street south through the city. The opening section can encourage runners into a faster pace than they intended. There is a considerable amount of downhill running during the first part of the race, and when that is combined with the excitement of such a huge field it can be easy to use too much energy during the opening miles. The character of the course changes around the halfway point. After crossing Peachtree Creek, runners encounter the best known part of the route, Cardiac Hill. Situated around mile three, this is one of the toughest climbs on the Peachtree course and has become an important part of the race's identity. Cardiac Hill is a sustained climb rather than an exceptionally steep one, but its position makes it challenging. Runners who have attacked the downhill opening can suddenly discover that they have very little left when the road begins heading upwards, while Atlanta's heat and humidity can make the climb feel considerably harder. The course passes the Shepherd Center, a specialist rehabilitation hospital that has a long association with the event, around this part of the route. Cardiac Hill is also one of the most popular spectator locations, with runners receiving plenty of support as they tackle one of the hardest sections of the race. Reaching the top does not mean all of the climbing is finished. The later stages continue to undulate as runners head towards Midtown, so the Peachtree rewards anyone who has resisted the temptation to run the faster opening miles too aggressively. The route eventually reaches the intersection of Peachtree Street and 10th Street, one of the liveliest spectator locations on the course. Runners turn onto 10th Street for the final section towards Piedmont Park, with the crowds building as the finish approaches. Water stops are available on both sides of the road approximately every mile. Entertainment is also traditionally positioned around the course, helping to create an atmosphere that is very different from a smaller road 10K. This is therefore not necessarily a race to choose purely because you want to set your fastest possible 10K time. The downhill opening offers plenty of speed, but Cardiac Hill, the subsequent undulations and the possibility of hot and humid conditions all make sensible pacing important. Watching The Peachtree Road Race Spectators have several good options along the course, although watching at the start line itself is not permitted. Cardiac Hill around mile three is one of the classic locations because runners are beginning to work considerably harder and crowd support can make a real difference. Another popular location is around the Atlanta Journal-Constitution headquarters and Colony Square in Midtown. Further along, the intersection of 10th Street and Peachtree is one of the liveliest spots on the route as runners make the turn towards the finish. Spectator viewing is also available in the finish area north of Charles Allen Drive. MARTA is the easiest way to move around Atlanta during the event because the road closures make driving between different sections of the course difficult. Read more about spectators here. What Makes The Peachtree Road Race Special? Being the world's largest 10K immediately makes the Peachtree unusual. Even with runners separated into waves, there is something very different about standing at the start knowing that tens of thousands of other people are taking part in the same event. Its connection with Independence Day gives the race another dimension. The Peachtree is not simply an event that happens to take place in Atlanta on July 4; it has become part of the city's Fourth of July tradition, with runners, spectators and volunteers returning year after year. Then there is the famous Peachtree T shirt. While receiving a race shirt is hardly unusual, the Peachtree has turned it into a genuine tradition. The design is selected through an annual competition and traditionally remains secret until race day, making the shirt something runners have to finish the event to discover and receive. Cardiac Hill gives the course its own piece of running folklore, while the finish at Piedmont Park provides a recognisable conclusion to the race. Put all of these elements together and the Peachtree has considerably more identity than you might expect from a 10K. Does The Peachtree Road Race Support Charity? The Atlanta Track Club Foundation supports programmes designed to encourage healthier communities through running and walking. An important part of this work is Kilometer Kids, Atlanta Track Club's free youth running programme, which aims to help children develop healthy habits, confidence and a long-term interest in physical activity. For 2027, runners can support Kilometer Kids through the Fuel the Future Peachtree Charity Waves. The programme offers guaranteed entry into selected waves in return for different levels of charitable contribution, with additional race-day benefits depending on the option selected. An early charity registration period for the 2027 race opened before the 2026 event and ran until July 11, 2026. Charity entries can remain available until June 21, 2027, or until the allocated places sell out. How To Enter The Peachtree Road Race 2027 Demand for the Peachtree is high and the entry system has changed several times during the race's history. A lottery was introduced in 2011, replacing the old system where simply applying quickly could secure one of the available places. Recent editions have offered Atlanta Track Club members advantages within the registration process, while other runners have been able to apply through the main public entry system. The exact general registration arrangements for the Peachtree Road Race 2027 should be checked when Atlanta Track Club publishes the full entry information. There is already another confirmed route into the 2027 race through the Fuel the Future charity programme. These entries provide guaranteed places in selected waves while supporting Kilometer Kids, although numbers are limited and can sell out. Start position is also worth considering when entering. Peachtree uses performance-based waves and qualifying results can determine where you begin within the enormous field. If you have a suitable recent race performance, check the 2027 qualifying criteria carefully when registration opens. With around 60,000 participants, the Peachtree is enormous, but that does not mean you should assume a place will always be available. If running the Peachtree Road Race 2027 is one of your targets, keep an eye on the official registration announcements and apply through the appropriate route when it becomes available. Where To Stay Atlanta has a huge range of accommodation, and the point-to-point nature of the Peachtree Road Race means there is no single perfect place to stay. Buckhead can be particularly convenient for the start side of the event, while Midtown puts you closer to Piedmont Park and gives you plenty of restaurants, hotels and attractions within easy reach. You do not need to stay immediately beside either end of the course. Atlanta's MARTA network is an important part of race morning for many runners, so accommodation with a convenient rail connection can give you much more choice. Check the organiser's latest transport information before booking and plan both your journey to the race and how you will return afterwards. The Peachtree takes place over the July 4 holiday and attracts tens of thousands of participants, so accommodation demand can be considerable. Booking early is sensible, particularly if you want to stay in Buckhead or Midtown or are extending your visit into a longer Atlanta break. Compare Peachtree Road Race accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The Peachtree Road Race is one of those events where the distance does not really convey the scale of the experience. It might only be 6.2 miles, but lining up with tens of thousands of other runners on Independence Day feels much more like taking part in one of the world's major city races than entering a conventional 10K. The course has enough difficulty to make it interesting, particularly once you reach Cardiac Hill, while Atlanta's July weather adds another challenge. Add in the crowds, the Fourth of July atmosphere, the famous finisher's T-shirt and more than half a century of history, and there is plenty here to justify travelling to Atlanta for the race. If you enjoy big international running events, the Peachtree Road Race 2027 is one to consider. There may be plenty of 10Ks around the world, but there is only one where you can say you have taken part in the world's largest. Race website https://www.atlantatrackclub.org/peachtree Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Dam Tot Damloop is one of the biggest running events in Europe, bringing tens of thousands of runners to the Netherlands for a weekend of racing, music and celebrations. Its main event is a 10 mile race from central Amsterdam to Zaandam, including the unusual opportunity to run through the IJtunnel. The weekend also includes the Damloop by Night, an atmospheric 5 mile race through Zaandam on Saturday evening. Together, the two events create one of the largest and most distinctive running weekends in the Netherlands. If you enjoy major participation events and want something different from a conventional city half marathon, this is certainly a race to consider. Here is everything you need to know about the Dam Tot Damloop 2027. The Destination The Dam Tot Damloop connects Amsterdam with Zaandam, allowing runners to experience two contrasting parts of the Netherlands during the same race. Amsterdam provides the internationally recognised starting point, while Zaandam delivers the finish and much of the weekend’s post race atmosphere. Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most popular city break destinations, known for its canals, museums, narrow historic buildings and cycling culture. Attractions including the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House make it easy to extend race weekend into a longer visit, although the city can be extremely busy throughout September. Zaandam sits north of Amsterdam beside the River Zaan. It has a strong industrial history and is known for its distinctive architecture, including the colourful stacked appearance of the Inntel Hotel near Zaandam station. Nearby Zaanse Schans offers another contrast, with traditional windmills and wooden houses beside the water. Runners staying for an extra day could visit after the race without travelling far from Zaandam. History Of The Dam Tot Damloop The first Dam Tot Damloop took place in 1985, developing from an idea to create a running connection between Amsterdam and Zaandam. The event has since grown from a relatively small race into one of the largest 10 mile events in the world. The IJtunnel has always played an important role in the race’s identity. It provides a direct route from central Amsterdam into Amsterdam Noord but is normally closed to pedestrians, making the chance to run through it one of the event’s most memorable features. The Dam Tot Damloop has attracted many leading international runners. Leonard Komon set the men’s course record of 44:27 in 2011, while Ingrid Kristiansen’s women’s record of 50:31 has stood since 1987. These performances demonstrate that the route can be extremely fast, but the event is equally defined by mass participation. Recreational runners, business teams and local supporters have helped turn it into one of the biggest annual running celebrations in the Netherlands. Who Organises The Dam Tot Damloop? The Dam Tot Damloop is organised by Le Champion, a Dutch sports organisation responsible for several major running, cycling and walking events. Its other running events include the Amsterdam Marathon, Egmond Half Marathon and Zandvoort Circuit Run. Le Champion works with local authorities, volunteers and other organisations to deliver the weekend. Managing a race that starts and finishes in different cities requires extensive transport, road closure and baggage arrangements. When Is The Dam Tot Damloop 2027? The main Dam Tot Damloop 2027 is listed for Sunday 19 September, with the Damloop by Night listed for Saturday 18 September. Runners should confirm the final programme through the official event website before making travel arrangements that cannot be changed. Starting times, entry arrangements and participant instructions may not be finalised until much closer to race weekend. September can produce varied running conditions in the Netherlands. Runners could experience a cool and comfortable morning, rain and wind or unexpectedly warm weather, so it is sensible to prepare for more than one possibility. Dam Tot Damloop Race Numbers The organiser has not yet published the race number arrangements for 2027. The Dam Tot Damloop does not normally centre its race weekend around the type of large international expo used by many major marathons. International runners should check whether their race number will be posted or needs to be collected after they register. The arrangements could depend on the address supplied, the date of entry and whether any optional products have been ordered. Do not assume that you will be able to collect a race number on Sunday morning unless the organiser specifically confirms this. Check your registration information carefully and allow time to resolve any problems before travelling to the start. The final participant instructions should always take priority over information from previous editions. This is particularly important for international runners who may have different race number delivery arrangements from participants living in the Netherlands. Race Morning The main Dam Tot Damloop traditionally starts on Prins Hendrikkade in central Amsterdam, close to Amsterdam Central Station. This is convenient for runners arriving by train, but the size of the event means the surrounding streets and station can become extremely busy. For 2026, the first 10 mile start was scheduled for 9:19am, with runners released in multiple waves during the day. Start groups were allocated using predicted finishing times, helping participants begin alongside people expecting to run at a similar pace. The start area is divided into separate zones, which are used for different waves. Runners need to check the colour, number and time shown on their race information before entering the correct area. Previous instructions have required runners to enter their allocated zone before its published closing time. Moving into a faster wave is normally prohibited, so providing an accurate predicted finish time during registration is important. With tens of thousands of people travelling towards the same part of Amsterdam, this is not a race where you should arrive at the last minute. Plan your journey to Amsterdam Central in advance and leave additional time for crowds, toilets, baggage and finding the correct entrance. The detailed arrangements may change for 2027, so runners must read the final information provided by the organiser. The important lesson from previous editions is that Dam Tot Damloop race morning is carefully controlled and requires more planning than a smaller local event. Read more about race day planning here. Dam Tot Damloop Course The main Dam Tot Damloop covers 10 miles, equivalent to approximately 16.1 kilometres. It is a point to point course beginning in central Amsterdam and finishing beside the River Zaan in Zaandam. The route is predominantly flat, but the IJtunnel creates a noticeable descent and climb near the beginning. Large parts of the course are capable of producing fast running, although the size of the field may make maintaining an uninterrupted pace difficult. The final 2027 route has not yet been published. The established course provides a good indication of what runners can expect, but individual streets, refreshment stations and entertainment points may change. The Start And IJtunnel The race starts on Prins Hendrikkade, close to Amsterdam Central Station. Runners have only a short distance to settle before approaching the IJtunnel, one of the defining features of the event. The route descends into the tunnel beneath the water separating central Amsterdam from Amsterdam Noord. It can feel warm and enclosed when filled with thousands of runners, while the downhill section may tempt participants into running faster than intended. Runners must then climb out of the tunnel into Amsterdam Noord. This is the most noticeable uphill section of the course and arrives before most people have established their intended race rhythm. Controlling your effort through the tunnel is more important than chasing an ambitious early pace. Ten miles is long enough for a fast opening section to create problems later, even on a predominantly flat course. Through Amsterdam Noord After leaving the IJtunnel, runners enter Amsterdam Noord and begin moving through residential neighbourhoods. The surroundings are very different from the historic centre that participants left only a short time earlier. This is where the local atmosphere becomes an important part of the experience. Residents come out to support the runners, while bands, DJs and entertainment points turn parts of the route into street celebrations. Some roads are narrower than the broad avenues used by major city marathons. Runners chasing a particular time need to remain aware of the people around them, especially when moving between pace groups or approaching drinks stations. The Middle Miles The middle part of the course continues north towards Zaandam. By this stage the field should have spread out, giving runners more opportunity to settle into a consistent pace. These kilometres are less visually dramatic than the IJtunnel or the final approach through Zaandam. This can be a useful time to concentrate on your effort, maintain your rhythm and avoid increasing the pace too early. The terrain remains predominantly flat, but weather conditions can make the exposed sections more demanding. Wind may affect the open roads, while direct sunshine can make a warm September day feel increasingly uncomfortable. Into Zaandam The course eventually enters Zaandam, where the number of spectators and entertainment points begins to increase again. Support becomes particularly strong as runners approach the more central parts of the city. Zuiddijk has traditionally formed part of the approach through Zaandam. Residents and supporters create a noisy atmosphere that can provide a welcome lift after the quieter connecting sections. The contrast between Amsterdam, Amsterdam Noord and Zaandam is central to the race experience. Instead of completing a loop around one city, runners feel as though they have travelled somewhere during the event. The Final Kilometres The final kilometres take runners towards the finish beside the River Zaan at De Burcht. Crowds line the closing section, giving participants plenty of encouragement as the effort of the previous 10 miles begins to make itself felt. There is no significant late climb, so runners who have controlled their pace should have an opportunity to finish strongly. The main difficulty may be finding enough space if runners moving at different speeds come together during the closing stages. After finishing, participants continue towards the event facilities and baggage collection areas. The finish zone can become extremely busy, so anyone meeting friends or family should agree on a location in advance rather than relying on finding each other beside the finish line. Runners approach the IJtunnel during the Dam Tot Damloop, one of the race’s most distinctive sections. Credit: Merlin/Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0. How Difficult Is The Dam Tot Damloop Course? The Dam Tot Damloop is not especially difficult from an elevation perspective. Once runners have climbed out of the IJtunnel, the remainder of the route is largely flat and should suit anyone who has trained well for 10 miles. The number of runners creates a different type of challenge. Congestion, changing pace and the excitement of running through the tunnel can make it difficult to establish a rhythm during the opening kilometres. Weather can also influence the race considerably. A warm day may feel uncomfortable in the tunnel and exposed sections, while wind or rain could affect the roads between Amsterdam and Zaandam. For most runners, sensible pacing through the opening section will be more important than the overall course profile. The tunnel needs to be respected, but there are no major hills waiting later in the race. What Makes The Dam Tot Damloop Special? The Dam Tot Damloop provides an experience that cannot easily be replicated elsewhere. Running through the IJtunnel is genuinely unusual, while the journey between Amsterdam and Zaandam gives the event a strong sense of purpose and direction. It is also one of the Netherlands’ largest participation events. The scale of the field, local street celebrations and music along the course create an atmosphere closer to a major city marathon than a conventional 10 mile road race. The distance adds another point of difference. Ten miles is long enough to feel like a serious endurance challenge but remains more accessible than a half marathon or marathon for many recreational runners. The supporting events turn the race into a complete weekend rather than a single Sunday morning. Damloop by Night brings thousands of runners onto the streets of Zaandam on Saturday evening, while the finish celebrations continue after the main event. Is The Dam Tot Damloop A Fast Course? Yes, the Dam Tot Damloop can be a fast race. Its course records and history of elite performances demonstrate that outstanding times can be achieved between Amsterdam and Zaandam. The route is largely flat after the opening tunnel, making it possible to establish a consistent pace through the middle and later miles. There is also no significant climb near the finish to disrupt a strong closing section. The biggest obstacle to a personal best is likely to be congestion. An appropriate starting wave and realistic predicted time will improve your chances of running freely, but some crowding is inevitable during an event of this size. Warm or windy weather could also limit fast performances. The course provides an opportunity to run quickly, but runners should adapt their targets if race day conditions are less favourable than expected. Is The Dam Tot Damloop Good For First Time Runners? The Dam Tot Damloop can be a good first 10 mile event for someone who has prepared properly. Its predominantly flat course, extensive support and large recreational field make it more accessible than the presence of elite athletes might initially suggest. The logistics require more attention than a small local race. First time runners need to understand the wave system, point to point course, baggage arrangements and journey away from Zaandam before arriving on race morning. Recent editions have used a two hour time limit for the main race. This requires an average pace of approximately 12 minutes per mile or 7 minutes 27 seconds per kilometre. Damloop By Night Damloop by Night is a separate 5 mile event held in Zaandam on Saturday evening. Its 8 kilometre course combines running with DJs, bands and light displays, creating a very different atmosphere from the main Sunday race. The established course begins on Vermiljoenweg before travelling through Zaandam. It uses part of the traditional 10 mile route before continuing through areas including Zuiddijk, Den Uylbrug and Havenstraat on the way to the finish at De Burcht. Around 15,000 runners take part, making this a major event in its own right. Starting waves help manage the field, but participants should still expect busy roads and a festival atmosphere rather than a quiet evening race. Some runners may consider entering both events. Completing 5 miles on Saturday followed by 10 miles on Sunday is achievable for an experienced runner, but the late finish, travel and limited recovery should be considered before attempting both. Running The Dam Tot Damloop For Charity Running from Amsterdam to Zaandam provides an excellent story around which to build a charity fundraising campaign. The unusual distance, IJtunnel and scale of the event give supporters several reasons to follow your preparation. If you are fundraising, explain why you selected the cause and what completing the 10 miles will mean to you. Training updates, photographs and progress towards longer runs can help supporters feel involved before race weekend arrives. The Dam Tot Damloop is also known for its enormous Business Run, with thousands of people participating through workplace teams. This may create opportunities to involve colleagues, request matched giving or build a company fundraising challenge around the event. Charity places are not as prominent as they are at many major British events. Runners should not assume that charities will hold guaranteed entries, although individual organisations or fundraising partners may provide opportunities once registration opens. Read more about running for charity with your own entry here. How To Enter The Dam Tot Damloop 2027 The Dutch athletics calendar currently lists Saturday 17 April 2027 as the opening date for registration for the main race. It also lists an individual entry price of €37.50, although runners should treat this as provisional until the organiser publishes its complete 2027 registration information. If the Dam Tot Damloop is one of your priority events, follow the official updates and be ready to enter when registration opens because the main race and Damloop by Night can sell out. The organiser has also used Atleta as its official resale system. This allows runners who can no longer participate to transfer their entry safely while giving people on the waiting list another opportunity to secure a place. Where To Stay The Dam tot Damloop is unusual because the event connects Amsterdam and Zaandam, so choosing where to stay involves more than simply finding the hotel closest to one point on the course. For international visitors, Amsterdam provides by far the largest choice of accommodation, restaurants and transport connections and is likely to be the most convenient base for a wider city break. Zaandam can also be worth considering, particularly if you prefer to stay away from central Amsterdam and want convenient access to the other end of the event. Whichever location you choose, check the organiser's latest race day transport information before booking so you understand how you will reach the event and return afterwards. Amsterdam is one of Europe's busiest visitor destinations and hotel prices can be high even without a major running event taking place. Booking early is therefore particularly worthwhile, and flexible cancellation can be useful if your travel arrangements are not yet final. Compare Dam tot Damloop accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The Dam Tot Damloop has almost everything we look for in a major destination running event. It offers an unusual point to point course, outstanding local support, a manageable but meaningful distance and the rare opportunity to run through the IJtunnel. It is not the simplest race logistically. The start and finish are in different cities, baggage needs to be transported and tens of thousands of runners must move through Amsterdam and Zaandam during the same day. Those complications are also part of what gives the event its identity. This does not feel like another city centre loop that could take place almost anywhere; it is a genuine journey between two different destinations, with the tunnel providing an unforgettable opening. If you secure a place, the Dam Tot Damloop 2027 should provide an excellent weekend of running. It combines the scale and atmosphere of a major event with a distance and course that remain accessible to a wide range of runners. Race Website https://www.nndamloop.com/ Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Antwerp 10 Miles is Belgium’s biggest running event, bringing tens of thousands of runners onto the streets of Antwerp for a race that feels more like a citywide celebration. Its unusual course includes two road tunnels, famous city landmarks and enormous crowd support. The headline race covers 10 miles, equivalent to approximately 16.1 kilometres. It begins and finishes on Antwerp’s Left Bank, known locally as Linkeroever, while taking runners beneath the River Scheldt and through the centre of the city. If you want a major European event with a distinctive course and outstanding atmosphere, Antwerp deserves serious consideration. Here is everything you need to know about the Antwerp 10 Miles 2027. The Destination Antwerp is Belgium’s second largest city and one of Europe’s most important ports. It sits beside the River Scheldt and combines a historic centre with modern architecture, fashionable shopping districts and a strong artistic heritage. The Grote Markt is at the heart of the old city, surrounded by elaborate guildhalls and dominated by Antwerp City Hall. Nearby attractions include the Cathedral of Our Lady, the riverside Het Steen fortress and the cobbled streets around the historic centre. Antwerp is closely associated with the artist Peter Paul Rubens, whose former home is one of the city’s best known cultural attractions. It is also an international centre for diamonds and fashion, giving visitors plenty to explore beyond its traditional landmarks. The city is easy to reach by train from Brussels, while direct rail services also connect Antwerp with several other European destinations. Antwerp Central Station is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most impressive railway stations and provides a memorable arrival point for international runners. History Of The Antwerp 10 Miles The first Antwerp 10 Miles took place in 1986. The event has grown from a relatively modest city race into the largest running celebration in Belgium. Its identity has always been closely connected to Antwerp’s geography. The River Scheldt divides the Left Bank from the historic centre, making the city’s tunnels an essential part of the route. The Kennedy Tunnel and Waasland Tunnel allow runners to pass beneath the river during different stages of the race. Roads that are normally filled with traffic become part of a huge running course for the day. The 2026 event celebrated the 40th edition of the Antwerp 10 Miles. Around 40,000 runners participated across the weekend, including approximately 31,000 in the headline race, demonstrating how significantly the event has grown. Who Organises The Antwerp 10 Miles? The Antwerp 10 Miles is organised by Golazo Sports in cooperation with the City of Antwerp, local authorities, emergency services, volunteers and commercial partners. Golazo organises a wide range of mass participation events in Belgium and elsewhere in Europe. Delivering the Antwerp 10 Miles requires extensive transport planning because major roads and two important traffic tunnels form part of the course. When Is The Antwerp 10 Miles 2027? The event traditionally takes place during April, with the main 10 mile race held on Sunday. The 2026 weekend took place on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 April. The shorter races were held on Saturday, followed by the headline Antwerp 10 Miles on Sunday. Runners should wait for the official 2027 announcement before booking travel or accommodation that cannot be changed. The programme, registration opening and starting times will be published closer to the event. April conditions in Antwerp can vary considerably. Runners could experience cool and comfortable weather, rain and wind or a surprisingly warm spring day, so it is sensible to prepare for several possibilities. Antwerp 10 Miles Race Numbers During the 2026 event, runners could collect their race numbers from the event site on both Saturday and Sunday. Sunday collection was available from 8:00am until 2:00pm, although runners still needed to leave enough time to reach their allocated starting wave. Collecting earlier in the weekend could reduce stress on race morning. The Antwerp 10 Miles does not operate like a large international marathon expo with several days of exhibitions and compulsory activities. Race number collection forms part of the event arrangements on Linkeroever. The 2027 location, opening hours and identification requirements must still be confirmed. International runners should check the final participant information carefully rather than assuming the previous arrangements will remain unchanged. Race Morning The Antwerp 10 Miles starts and finishes on Linkeroever, the Left Bank of the River Scheldt. This becomes the main event area, containing the start waves, finish, baggage facilities and other runner services. Public transport is usually the most practical way to reach the event. Road closures, parking restrictions and the enormous number of participants make driving into the immediate area difficult. For 2026, the race used ten starting waves beginning at 10:30am. Further groups were released throughout the day, with the final wave scheduled to start at 2:00pm. Wave allocation helps manage the huge field and reduces congestion inside the tunnels. Runners need to check their allocated time carefully and allow enough time for security, toilets, baggage and movement through the event site. This is not a race where you should arrive a few minutes before your start. Linkeroever becomes extremely busy, and reaching the correct wave can take considerably longer than expected. The precise arrangements may change for 2027. The final event instructions should always take priority, particularly when they explain transport, baggage, prohibited items and access to the starting areas. Read more about race day planning here. Antwerp 10 Miles Course The Antwerp 10 Miles follows a point to point style loop that starts and finishes on Linkeroever. It crosses beneath the River Scheldt twice, using the Kennedy Tunnel during the opening section and the Waasland Tunnel towards the end. The course is relatively flat outside the tunnels, but both crossings involve noticeable descents and climbs. The scale of the event can also make maintaining a perfectly even pace difficult. The precise 2027 route has not yet been published. The course used for the 2026 anniversary edition provides the best indication of what runners can expect, although individual streets and landmarks may change. The Start On Linkeroever The race begins on Linkeroever, where thousands of runners gather in separate waves. The wide starting area helps organise the field, but the atmosphere is intense because large groups continue to assemble throughout the day. Runners should avoid being pulled into an unsustainable pace by the excitement of the start. The first major challenge arrives quickly, and there is still a long way to run after leaving the opening tunnel. Through The Kennedy Tunnel One of the first major features is the Kennedy Tunnel, which carries the course beneath the River Scheldt. This is normally an important road connection rather than somewhere accessible to runners. The descent can feel fast, particularly when surrounded by thousands of other participants. It is easy to gain speed without realising how much additional effort will be required on the opposite side. The climb out of the tunnel is one of the most demanding parts of the course. It arrives early enough for runners to recover, but attacking it too aggressively can make the middle miles unnecessarily difficult. Zuidpark And Central Antwerp After emerging from the Kennedy Tunnel, runners continue towards the southern and central areas of Antwerp. The course passes through or close to Zuidpark, formerly known as the Zuiderdokken. This section introduces runners to the city after the enclosed atmosphere of the tunnel. The roads become increasingly busy with supporters, entertainment and people moving between different viewing locations. The terrain is generally more forgiving than the tunnel crossing, giving runners an opportunity to settle into their intended pace. Those chasing a particular time should concentrate on running efficiently rather than attempting to recover every second lost on the climb. Kloosterstraat, The Scheldt And MAS The course continues through some of Antwerp’s most recognisable areas. Kloosterstraat is known for its galleries, antique shops and independent businesses, while the nearby riverside creates a stronger sense of the city’s relationship with the Scheldt. Runners then move towards central Antwerp and landmarks including the Museum aan de Stroom, widely known as MAS. Its distinctive red sandstone and glass design makes it one of the most recognisable modern buildings in the city. This part of the race provides a combination of city views and crowd support. The streets can be busy, so runners should remain aware of those around them when approaching corners, drinks stations and narrower sections. Through The Waasland Tunnel The Waasland Tunnel provides the second underground crossing and one of the defining experiences of the race. It takes runners beneath the River Scheldt and back towards Linkeroever. The long descent allows the pace to increase, but runners should remember that the climb out comes during the closing stages. The tunnel can feel warm, enclosed and noisy when filled with thousands of participants. This is where sensible early pacing becomes particularly important. Runners who used too much energy in the Kennedy Tunnel or through central Antwerp may find the Waasland Tunnel climb considerably harder than expected. The Finish On Linkeroever After emerging from the Waasland Tunnel, runners return to Linkeroever for the final section. The knowledge that the finish is approaching helps, but there is still enough distance remaining for tired legs to become a problem. Crowd support builds as runners move towards the finish, creating a suitably noisy conclusion to the 10 miles. The enormous number of participants means the area remains busy throughout the day. Friends and family should agree on a meeting point in advance. Mobile networks can become congested, and trying to locate someone immediately beside the finish may be difficult. Runners pass along Sint-Michielskaai beside the River Scheldt at mile 6 of the Antwerp 10 Miles. Credit: TheGoodEndedHappily/Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY 4.0. How Difficult Is The Antwerp 10 Miles? The Antwerp 10 Miles is more challenging than its overall elevation figures might suggest. Most of the course is relatively flat, but the Kennedy and Waasland tunnels introduce four significant changes in elevation. The opening Kennedy Tunnel can encourage runners to start too quickly on the descent before working harder than planned on the climb. The Waasland Tunnel becomes more demanding because it arrives when fatigue is already building. The size of the field presents another challenge. Congestion, changing pace and crowded corners can make it difficult to establish a completely uninterrupted rhythm. For most runners, controlled pacing will be more important than the total amount of climbing. Treat both tunnel descents with caution, maintain a steady effort on the climbs and save enough energy for the final return to Linkeroever. What Makes The Antwerp 10 Miles Special? The tunnels are the clearest point of difference. Few running events allow participants to use major road tunnels to cross beneath a wide river twice during the same race. The scale of the event also creates an exceptional atmosphere. Antwerp’s streets are filled with spectators, music and entertainment, while different starting waves keep the celebration going for much of the day. The course feels like a genuine journey through the city. Runners experience Linkeroever, two underground crossings, central Antwerp, riverside areas and major landmarks rather than completing a simple loop around one district. The 10 mile distance adds another attraction. It is long enough to demand serious training but remains more accessible than a half marathon or marathon for many recreational runners. Is The Antwerp 10 Miles A Fast Course? The Antwerp 10 Miles can produce fast times, but it is not a completely flat personal best course. The descents allow runners to gain speed, while most sections between the tunnels provide an opportunity to maintain a consistent pace. The tunnel climbs can interrupt that rhythm. Trying to maintain the same pace uphill may use too much energy, particularly during the later Waasland Tunnel crossing. Congestion is likely to be a bigger obstacle than the overall elevation for many runners. Starting in an appropriate wave will improve your chances of running freely, but some crowding is inevitable during an event of this size. A personal best is certainly possible with sensible pacing and favourable weather. The course rewards runners who manage their effort rather than those who attack the opening descent. Is The Antwerp 10 Miles Good For First Time Runners? The Antwerp 10 Miles can be an excellent first race over the distance. The atmosphere, support and large recreational field help make the event feel welcoming despite its enormous scale. Ten miles represents a meaningful step beyond 10 kilometres without requiring the same training commitment as a half marathon. Anyone entering should still build their distance gradually and prepare specifically for sustained running over approximately 16.1 kilometres. First time runners need to understand the practical arrangements as well as the course. Starting waves, public transport, baggage facilities and a crowded event village can feel overwhelming without advance planning. Training should include some hills or steady incline running, even though Antwerp is not generally considered a hilly course. This will make both tunnel climbs feel more manageable on race day. Antwerp 5 Miles And Kids Mile The Antwerp 10 Miles weekend includes shorter events designed to make the celebration accessible to more runners and families. The Baloise Antwerp 5 Miles was introduced for the 2026 anniversary weekend. Its course was based on Linkeroever and provided a shorter alternative for runners who did not want to take on the full 10 miles. The Persil Kids Mile gives younger participants an opportunity to experience the event atmosphere over an age appropriate distance. Both shorter events were held on Saturday before the main race on Sunday. The organiser has not yet confirmed the complete 2027 programme. Anyone interested in the 5 Miles or Kids Mile should wait for the new event information before making plans. Running The Antwerp 10 Miles For Charity The Antwerp 10 Miles provides an excellent platform for charity fundraising. Its unusual tunnels, enormous field and recognisable city course give supporters plenty of reasons to follow a runner’s preparation. If you are fundraising, explain why the charity matters to you and what completing 10 miles will represent. Regular training updates can bring supporters into the journey rather than limiting your fundraising to race week. Think Pink, Belgium’s national breast cancer organisation, has been an official charity partner of the event. The 2027 charity partnership and any fundraising arrangements still need to be confirmed. International runners can also use their own entry to support a charity of their choice. You do not need an official charity place to turn the Antwerp 10 Miles into a meaningful fundraising challenge. Read more about running for charity with your own race place here. How To Enter The Antwerp 10 Miles 2027 Registration arrangements and entry prices for the Antwerp 10 Miles 2027 have not yet been announced. The organiser is expected to publish more information once the date and programme have been finalised. Demand is extremely high. The headline 10 mile race has sold out in recent editions, so runners should not assume that entries will remain available indefinitely. If Antwerp is one of your priority events, follow the official announcements and be prepared to register when entries open. Confirm exactly what is included in the entry fee and whether additional products need to be selected during registration. Only use the official registration platform or an approved transfer system. Buying an unofficial race number could create problems with participant details, insurance, emergency information or starting wave allocation. Where To Stay Antwerp is well suited to a running weekend, with plenty of accommodation around the historic centre and good public transport connections across the city. Staying centrally gives you easy access to restaurants, attractions and the city's main transport links while allowing you to explore Antwerp on foot before or after the race. You do not need to choose a hotel solely because it appears close to the course. Event arrangements and road closures can affect how you move around Antwerp on race day, so check the latest organiser information and work out your journey before booking. The Antwerp 10 Miles is a major event for the city, and accommodation can become more limited as race weekend approaches. Booking early gives you a wider choice of hotels and prices, particularly if you want to combine the event with a longer stay in Antwerp. Compare Antwerp 10 Miles accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The Antwerp 10 Miles offers one of the most distinctive race experiences in Europe. Its two tunnels, huge crowds and journey through central Antwerp make it far more memorable than a conventional 10 mile road race. It is not a completely straightforward course. The tunnel climbs require disciplined pacing, while the enormous field means runners need to plan their start wave, transport and arrival carefully. Those challenges are also part of the attraction. Running beneath the River Scheldt twice and emerging into streets filled with supporters gives the event an identity that few other races can match. If you secure a place, the Antwerp 10 Miles 2027 should provide an outstanding weekend. It combines a serious running challenge with the scale, excitement and atmosphere of a major international event. Race Website Official Antwerp 10 Miles Website Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Marathon du Médoc 2027 takes place on Saturday 4 September, bringing 8,500 runners to Pauillac for one of the most unusual marathons anywhere in the world. Officially known as the Marathon des Châteaux du Médoc, the race winds through the vineyards and famous wine estates of the Médoc region in southwest France. Fancy dress is part of the experience, wine tastings appear around the course and later refreshment stops have become famous for serving local specialities including oysters, steak, cheese, grapes and ice cream. The 2027 edition will be the 41st Marathon du Médoc, with the theme “Exploration Médoc, à la conquête du Monde!” Registration is scheduled to open in March 2027 and places are limited, making this a race where planning ahead matters. The Destination The Marathon du Médoc takes place around Pauillac in the Médoc wine region, approximately 50km north of Bordeaux. Rather than providing a traditional big city marathon experience, the weekend is built around vineyards, wine estates, small towns and the landscape of one of the world's most famous wine producing regions. Pauillac sits beside the Gironde estuary and is at the heart of race weekend. The surrounding area is home to some of the most celebrated wine estates in Bordeaux, including Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Mouton Rothschild and Château Latour. Bordeaux provides the obvious gateway for international runners. The city has its own airport and high speed rail connections with Paris, while some runners choose to stay in Bordeaux and travel to Pauillac for the marathon. Official bus transfers between Bordeaux and Pauillac are planned for race weekend and can be booked separately. If you are making a longer trip of it, Bordeaux itself deserves some time. Its historic centre, riverfront, restaurants and wine culture make it an excellent addition to the weekend, while the Atlantic coast and destinations including Arcachon and the Dune du Pilat can also be explored if you are extending your stay. History Of The Marathon du Médoc The Marathon des Châteaux du Médoc was created in 1984 by a group of marathon runners and the Commanderie du Bontemps. The first race took place in 1985 with around 500 entrants, beginning an event that would eventually become internationally famous. Its founders developed the marathon around four principles: health, sport, conviviality and celebration. Those ideas continue to define the event, with the organisers deliberately limiting participation despite demand for more places. Fancy dress, live music, local food and wine have become inseparable from the race. The emphasis is not simply on getting from start to finish as quickly as possible but on experiencing the Médoc and enjoying an atmosphere created by thousands of runners, volunteers, spectators and participating wine estates. The event is organised by the Association du Marathon des Châteaux du Médoc, with volunteers playing a major part in delivering the race and its surrounding activities. When Is The Marathon du Médoc 2027? The Marathon du Médoc 2027 takes place on Saturday 4 September. The marathon starts at 9:30am from the quays in Pauillac and returns to finish in the same area. Race weekend begins on Friday 3 September, when runners collect their race numbers and the Marathon Village opens. The traditional Mille Pâtes and Pâtes à Caisses dinners also take place on Friday evening. After the marathon on Saturday, the celebrations continue in Pauillac with the awards ceremony, food, music, fireworks and dancing. A recovery walk through the vineyards takes place on Sunday 5 September, followed by lunch for runners and supporters who have booked the additional option. Marathon du Medoc 2027 Expo And Race Pack Collection Race number collection takes place at the COSEC in Pauillac on Friday 3 September 2027 between 10am and 11pm. Collection must be completed personally and race numbers cannot be collected by another runner on your behalf. There is no race number collection on Saturday morning, making it essential to arrive in the area by Friday. The Marathon Village is also open during Friday and forms part of the wider build up to the race. If you are travelling internationally, arrive with enough time to reach Pauillac and complete the registration process without turning Friday evening into a rush. The traditional Friday evening events are optional and require separate booking. They are an important part of the Médoc experience for many runners, but remember that you still have a marathon to complete the following morning. Read more about race expos here. Race Morning The marathon starts at 9:30am from the quays in Pauillac. The build up begins much earlier, with the presentation of runners in fancy dress scheduled between 8am and 9:15am, followed by the pre race entertainment. Fancy dress is central to the identity of the event. The official regulations are particularly clear that the Médoc is a race to be run in costume, while the annual theme influences outfits throughout the field. The 2027 theme is “Exploration Médoc, à la conquête du Monde!”, giving runners plenty of freedom when deciding what to wear. Think about practicality as well as appearance because whatever you choose needs to remain comfortable for several hours of running and walking, potentially in warm September conditions. Test anything substantial during training rather than discovering during the marathon that it restricts your movement or causes rubbing. A costume that looks brilliant for the first kilometre may feel very different after several hours on the course. A free baggage facility is available in the start and finish area. Runners travelling from Bordeaux should also allow plenty of time for the journey to Pauillac and organise their transport well before race morning. Read more about hydration on race day here. Ready for chaos? Photo courtesy AMCM/Mainguy Marathon du Médoc Course The Marathon du Médoc is a 42.195km loop beginning and finishing in Pauillac. Instead of wide city boulevards and famous urban landmarks, the race is known for winding through the vineyards, wine estates and countryside of the Médoc. The organiser has not yet published the final 2027 course, so the exact route and sequence of châteaux should be checked closer to race weekend. What is already confirmed is that the course will be undulating and approximately 24% will be on gravel paths rather than conventional road surfaces. Pauillac The marathon begins on the quays in Pauillac beside the Gironde estuary. With thousands of runners wearing elaborate costumes and entertainment surrounding the start, the opening kilometres have a very different atmosphere from a conventional road marathon. The combination of a crowded field, costumes and excitement makes patience important. There is little reason to chase time during the opening kilometres, particularly when the nature of the event means your overall pace is likely to vary considerably as the race progresses. Into The Vineyards The vineyards and wine estates surrounding Pauillac provide the defining scenery of the Marathon du Médoc. Long views across the vines replace the dense crowds and buildings associated with a city marathon, while gravel tracks add another dimension to the course. The changing surface is one reason not to judge the difficulty purely by elevation. Gravel, corners, repeated stops and the movement of runners around refreshment areas can all interrupt your rhythm, while an elaborate costume may also influence how comfortably you can maintain your normal marathon pace. The Châteaux Running through the Médoc's wine country is what gives the marathon its identity. Wine tastings are offered around the course, although taking part is entirely optional and the organisers emphasise that tastings are provided in moderate quantities. Water and conventional race hydration remain much more important when managing the physical demands of the marathon. The relaxed atmosphere should not disguise the fact that you are still covering the full 42.195km. For 2027, the event plans 22 refreshment points, around 20 wine tasting opportunities and 55 entertainment and tasting points around the course. With so much happening, part of the challenge can be balancing enjoyment of the event with the need to keep progressing towards the finish. Food And Entertainment The refreshments become increasingly unconventional as the marathon progresses. The event is famous for offering regional food including oysters, steak, cheese, grapes and ice cream alongside more familiar marathon supplies. Music and entertainment are also spread around the route. The result is a marathon where stopping, taking photographs and enjoying the surroundings are part of the experience for many participants rather than something happening around the edges of the race. Repeatedly stopping and restarting can become surprisingly difficult later in a marathon. If you plan to experience as much as possible, keep an eye on your overall progress and remember that the official time limit continues while you are enjoying the course. Back Towards Pauillac The course eventually returns to Pauillac and the Gironde. By this point the combination of the distance, uneven surfaces, costume and potentially warm weather can make the marathon considerably harder than its relaxed atmosphere initially suggests. The finish is back on the quays, where the celebrations continue. Completing the course brings an end to the running but not necessarily to the event, with food, music, fireworks and dancing continuing into Saturday evening. How Difficult Is The Marathon du Médoc Course? The Marathon du Médoc should not be underestimated. Although there are no mountain climbs, the organiser describes the course as undulating and confirms that approximately 24% is on gravel paths rather than conventional road surfaces. September weather can also be a significant factor. Warm conditions increase the physical demands of any marathon and become even more relevant if you are wearing an elaborate costume. Check the forecast carefully and be prepared to adjust your pace if race day is warmer than expected. The official time limit is 6 hours 30 minutes. Sweep runners move around the course at the required pace and anyone behind them will be taken out of the race. The organiser also states that the course closes at halfway to runners who are behind the sweep team. Training properly for the distance therefore gives you more freedom to enjoy what makes the Médoc special. Arriving underprepared could turn a relaxed approach to the marathon into a race against the cut off during the second half. What Makes The Marathon du Médoc Special? Few races combine a marathon with such a strong sense of place. The vineyards and châteaux are not simply scenery around the event but part of the experience itself, with the route, refreshments and entertainment reflecting the identity of the Médoc. Fancy dress transforms the field into something closer to a moving carnival. Add live music, wine tastings, local food and thousands of runners, volunteers and supporters and it becomes clear why the race attracts people from around the world. The experience also extends beyond the marathon itself. Friday night dinners, Saturday evening celebrations and Sunday's vineyard walk allow runners to make the event into an entire weekend rather than simply arriving to race and leave. Is The Marathon du Médoc A Fast Course? The Médoc is not designed as a conventional personal best marathon. Gravel tracks, an undulating profile, fancy dress, food, wine and frequent entertainment all work against running the fastest possible 42.2km. Competitive runners still race at the front, but for much of the field the objective is very different. Many participants deliberately take their time, stop at the châteaux and experience the entertainment rather than concentrating on splits. If your main target is a marathon personal best, there are considerably more suitable races. The appeal of the Médoc is the opportunity to experience a marathon that deliberately does things differently. Is The Marathon du Médoc Good For First Time Runners? A first time marathon runner can complete the Médoc, but it is an unusual choice for a debut. The 6 hour 30 minute limit provides time to experience the event, yet the gravel sections, potentially warm weather and fancy dress introduce challenges that do not exist at many road marathons. Frequent stops can also make pacing difficult. Long breaks may feel enjoyable early in the race, but restarting becomes increasingly uncomfortable as your legs tire. If the Médoc is your first marathon, prepare properly for the full distance. Complete your long runs, practise your fuelling and hydration and test any important elements of your costume before race weekend. The better prepared you are, the more opportunity you will have to enjoy the unusual parts of the event. What a great way to tour the vineyards! Photo courtesy AMCM/Mainguy How To Enter The Marathon du Médoc 2027 Registration for the Marathon du Medoc 2027 is scheduled to open in March 2027. Entries must be made through the official Marathon des Châteaux du Médoc website and participation is limited to 8,500 runners. Individual and group registration will be available, with groups able to include between two and 30 runners. A standard 2027 race number costs €110, with payment made by bank card through the official registration system. Several packages combining the marathon with other race weekend activities will also be available. These include options incorporating the Friday evening events and Sunday's vineyard walk and lunch. Runners must be at least 20 years old, with the 2027 race open to people born before 4 September 2007. Participants must also provide the required French Pass Prévention Santé, known as the PPS. For the 2027 marathon, the PPS must have been completed after 5 September 2026 to be valid for race day. The organiser currently lists the cost of completing the PPS as €5. All inclusive packages combining a race place with accommodation, transfers and optional extras are also due to open in March through Tuttiquanti, the official partner agency. These could be particularly useful for international runners who would prefer to organise their entry, accommodation and race transport together. Demand traditionally exceeds the number of places available, so do not assume registration will remain open for long. If the Marathon du Médoc is one of your targets for 2027, check the official website as March approaches and be ready when entries open. Race numbers cannot be transferred privately between runners. If you can no longer take part, the organiser operates its own repurchase system rather than allowing you to sell or give your place to somebody else. For a standard 2027 race entry, the organiser states a repurchase value of €97, with requests required by 30 June 2027. Running The Marathon du Médoc For Charity The Marathon du Médoc is not primarily structured around charity entry in the same way as races such as London, where charities receive substantial allocations of race places. For most runners, securing their own entry when registration opens will be the main route into the race. Having your own place does not prevent you from fundraising. You can use the marathon to support a charity that matters to you and create your own fundraising page once your entry is confirmed. The unusual nature of the event can provide a strong fundraising story. Training for a marathon through the vineyards of the Médoc and completing it in fancy dress gives supporters something different to follow as you build towards race day. Read more about running for charity with your own race place here. Where To Stay Pauillac is the most convenient place to stay if you want to be close to the start, finish and race weekend activities. Accommodation in and around the town is limited compared with a major city, however, and demand can be extremely high around marathon weekend. Bordeaux provides considerably more choice and is a popular alternative for visiting runners. Staying there also makes international travel easier and gives you access to the city's restaurants, attractions and transport connections before and after the race. If you stay in Bordeaux, race morning transport becomes particularly important. Official bus transfers between Bordeaux and Pauillac are planned for Saturday, with booking due to open in March. Organise this part of the weekend well in advance rather than assuming you will be able to arrange transport after arriving in France. Other accommodation can be found throughout the Médoc, but check exactly how you will reach Pauillac before booking. Race day road restrictions mean a property that looks conveniently located on a map may not necessarily provide a straightforward journey to the start. Compare Marathon du Médoc accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The Marathon du Médoc is one of the most distinctive marathons in the world. There are faster courses, easier races and events where the logistics are considerably simpler, but very few can offer anything resembling a marathon through the vineyards and châteaux of one of France's great wine regions. The fancy dress, food and wine can make the event sound more like a party than a marathon, but completing 42.2km over an undulating course with substantial gravel sections still requires proper preparation. Respecting the distance while embracing everything that makes the event different is probably the best way to approach it. With only 8,500 places available and registration opening in March 2027, securing an entry will be the first challenge for many runners. For those who get a place, the Marathon du Médoc offers a race weekend that is difficult to compare with anything else on the marathon calendar. Race Website https://www.marathondumedoc.com/ Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Vienna City Marathon returns on Sunday 18 April 2027, taking thousands of runners through one of Europe's great cultural capitals on a course that combines grand boulevards, historic buildings, the Prater and some of Vienna's best known landmarks. Demand for the 2027 race has been particularly strong. Standard marathon registration has already closed after places filled earlier than ever before, although runners who missed out can join the official waiting list and investigate other potential entry routes. First held in 1984, the Vienna City Marathon has developed into one of Europe's established international marathons. It is also part of the European Marathon Classics, bringing another reason for runners to consider Vienna as part of a wider European marathon journey. The Destination Vienna is particularly well suited to a marathon weekend because many of its major attractions are concentrated around the historic centre. The Austrian capital is known for imperial architecture, classical music, coffee houses, museums and large public spaces, making it easy to turn the race into a longer city break. Among the best known sights are Schönbrunn Palace, St Stephen's Cathedral, the Hofburg and Vienna State Opera. The Ringstraße itself is one of the city's great attractions, circling the historic centre past monumental buildings including the Austrian Parliament, City Hall and Burgtheater. Vienna's musical history is another important part of its identity. Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert and Strauss are all closely associated with the city, while classical music remains part of its cultural life. The marathon has embraced that connection, with music and entertainment contributing to the atmosphere around race weekend. Try to keep sightseeing under control before race day. Vienna is an easy city to explore on foot, but several hours walking around palaces, museums and the historic centre can leave your legs more tired than expected. If you are staying beyond marathon weekend, save some of the longer days for after the race. History Of The Vienna City Marathon The first race took place on 25 March 1984 under the name Wiener Frühlings Marathon, or Vienna Spring Marathon. The original route started near Vienna City Hall and finished at Heldenplatz, with runners completing three laps through central Vienna and the Prater. The event subsequently developed into the Vienna City Marathon and became an increasingly international race. Its combination of a major European capital, elite competition and a course passing many of Vienna's landmarks has helped establish it as one of the continent's best known spring marathons. Vienna also occupies a unique place in marathon history because of Eliud Kipchoge's Ineos 1:59 Challenge. On 12 October 2019, Kipchoge ran 1:59:40.2 on a specially designed course in Vienna's Prater, becoming the first person to cover the marathon distance in under two hours. The performance did not count as an official marathon world record because of the controlled conditions and rotating pacemakers, but it remains one of the most significant performances in the history of distance running. Sections of the Vienna City Marathon take runners through the same Prater area associated with Kipchoge's run. Vienna is also part of the European Marathon Classics, a series bringing together established European races with significant marathon histories. Read more about the European Marathon Classics here. When Is The Vienna City Marathon 2027? The Vienna City Marathon takes place on Sunday 18 April 2027. The marathon starts from 9am in several waves, with runners beginning on Wagramer Straße at the Reichsbrücke before finishing on the Ringstraße beside the Burgtheater in central Vienna. The wider event weekend includes the Wiener Städtische Half Marathon, Powerade Relay Marathon, Tchibo Coffee Run 10K and Vienna 5K, together with children's and inclusion events. Anyone travelling with family or friends therefore has several ways to become involved beyond watching the marathon. Vienna City Marathon Expo And Race Pack Collection Vienna Sports World takes place at Marx Halle on Friday 16 and Saturday 17 April 2027. The venue is at Karl-Farkas-Gasse 19 in Vienna's third district. The expo is scheduled to open from 9am until 7pm on Friday and from 9am until 6pm on Saturday. It combines race number collection with exhibitors covering running, health, travel, outdoor activities and other areas connected with the event. Check your final participant information before travelling to Marx Halle so that you know what identification or confirmation you need to collect your race number. If you are travelling internationally, arriving in Vienna by Friday gives you considerably more flexibility than leaving everything until Saturday and provides time to deal with any travel problems before race day. Read more about race expos here. Race Morning The marathon starts on Wagramer Straße at the Reichsbrücke, with runners setting off in several waves from 9am. The bridge across the Danube provides one of the most recognisable starts of any European city marathon. Vienna has an extensive public transport system, but do not assume your normal journey time will apply on race morning. Road closures, large numbers of runners and the walk into your allocated starting area can all add time. Your final race information will confirm your wave and access arrangements. Work backwards from the time you need to be in your starting area rather than from the official start of the marathon, giving yourself enough time to use the toilets and reach the correct wave without rushing. Runners who have booked the clothing bag service can leave their official VCM bag at Vienna Sports World on Friday or Saturday, or at the start area between 7am and 8.30am on Sunday. Bags are transported to the finish for collection after the race. The official finish closes at 3.30pm. Runners expecting to be towards the back of the field should check the detailed cut off arrangements in their final race instructions and make sure they understand any intermediate requirements. Read more about race day strategy here. Runners fill Lassallestraße during the opening kilometres of the Vienna City Marathon, shortly after crossing the Reichsbrücke and heading towards Praterstern and the Prater. Vienna City Marathon Course The Vienna City Marathon course provides a sightseeing tour through very different parts of the Austrian capital. The 2027 route starts beside the Danube, passes through the Prater, heads west towards Schönbrunn and eventually returns through central Vienna before finishing on the Ringstraße beside the Burgtheater. Vienna does not have the completely flat profile associated with some of Europe's fastest marathons, but the overall elevation is relatively modest. Much of the course involves gradual changes rather than major climbs, making sensible pacing more important than preparing for any single difficult hill. The Reichsbrücke Start The marathon begins on Wagramer Straße before runners cross the Reichsbrücke over the Danube. It is an impressive opening to the race, with a large field spreading across the bridge and Vienna ahead. The excitement of the start and the change in elevation from the bridge make it particularly easy to begin faster than intended. Concentrate on finding space and settling into your planned effort rather than trying to gain time during the opening kilometres. The Prater The opening part of the course brings runners towards the Prater, one of Vienna's largest recreational areas and an important location in the city's running history. The route passes close to the famous Wiener Riesenrad Ferris wheel before using roads around the Prater and Hauptallee. This is also the area forever associated with Eliud Kipchoge's sub two hour marathon in 2019. Hauptallee is long, straight and flat, which makes it excellent for controlled running but can also tempt runners into pushing the pace too early. There is still a considerable distance ahead when you leave the Prater for the first time. Central Vienna From the Prater, the route heads towards central Vienna and some of the city's most recognisable streets and buildings. This section begins to provide the architectural backdrop that distinguishes Vienna from many other big city marathons. The course moves towards the Ringstraße and Vienna State Opera before continuing west. Crowd support can make these kilometres feel relatively easy, so keep following your planned pacing and fuelling rather than allowing the atmosphere to pull you into a faster effort. Schönbrunn The route continues west towards Schönbrunn and the area around Schönbrunn Palace, one of Vienna's most famous landmarks and one of the most memorable surroundings on the course. By this point the opening excitement should have settled and you should be running at an effort you believe you can sustain well beyond halfway. The course then turns back towards central Vienna, but resist the temptation to interpret the change in direction as the beginning of the journey to the finish. There is still a substantial amount of the marathon ahead. Danube Canal And Northern Vienna After halfway, the course moves towards the Danube Canal and areas north of the historic centre before eventually turning back towards the Prater. This part of the race has a different feel from the grand imperial surroundings encountered earlier. Longer, straighter sections can make maintaining rhythm easier, but the kilometres also begin to require more concentration as fatigue develops. Keep fuelling according to the plan you practised during training rather than waiting until you feel that you need more energy. By this stage of a marathon, small mistakes with pace, hydration or fuelling can become increasingly difficult to correct later. Back Into The Prater The later stages bring runners back towards the Prater. Returning to familiar surroundings can provide a psychological lift, but by around 30km the marathon is entering its most demanding stage. The relatively flat roads through this part of Vienna can be helpful if you still feel strong, although long straight sections can feel very different late in a marathon than they did near the beginning. This is where sensible pacing during the opening half of the race begins to pay off. The Final Kilometres The closing part of the course leaves the Prater and heads back towards central Vienna. As the remaining distance begins to fall, the surroundings become increasingly familiar and the atmosphere builds towards the finish. The route returns to the Ringstraße, one of Vienna's great ceremonial boulevards. After more than 42km through the Austrian capital, the finish beside the Burgtheater provides an appropriately grand conclusion to the race. How Difficult Is The Vienna City Marathon Course? Vienna is not an especially hilly marathon, but neither should runners assume that the course is completely flat. There are gradual changes in elevation across the route rather than a single major climb that defines the race. The layout can present a different challenge. Several sections are long and relatively straight, particularly around the Prater, so runners need to maintain concentration even when there are fewer changes of direction or scenery. April weather can also influence the difficulty. Conditions in Vienna can vary during spring, so check the forecast close to race weekend and avoid basing your strategy on assumptions about temperature or wind. Overall, Vienna is a marathon where disciplined pacing can produce a strong race. Avoid spending unnecessary energy during the opening kilometres and you should reach the final sections with considerably more options. What Makes The Vienna City Marathon Special? Vienna combines the atmosphere of a large international marathon with a destination known around the world for music, history and architecture. The course provides an unusually varied journey, crossing the Danube on the Reichsbrücke, passing through the Prater, heading towards Schönbrunn and eventually finishing on the Ringstraße. Its connection with Eliud Kipchoge adds another dimension. Few marathon destinations can claim such an important place in the history of the distance, and running through the Prater provides a direct connection with the location where the two hour marathon barrier was first broken. The race's inclusion in the European Marathon Classics provides another reason for marathon runners to consider Vienna, particularly those interested in combining some of Europe's established races into a longer marathon journey. Is The Vienna City Marathon A Fast Course? Vienna has the potential to be a fast marathon. The course avoids major hills, contains substantial flat sections and has produced high quality elite performances. For recreational runners, weather and pacing are likely to matter more than small differences in elevation. A cool, calm April morning could create good conditions for running quickly, while warmer temperatures or wind would change the calculation. The course rewards runners who remain controlled early. The opening kilometres and long sections through the Prater can encourage a fast start, but maintaining a sustainable effort should give you a better opportunity to run strongly through the final 10km. Is The Vienna City Marathon Good For First Time Runners? Vienna can be a good choice for a first marathon because it combines a manageable course with the organisation and atmosphere of a large international event. There are no major climbs to prepare for, while the city has excellent public transport and plenty of accommodation. The size of the event does require preparation. Expect busy transport, queues and crowded starting areas, particularly on race morning. Travelling to Vienna early enough to collect your number and understand how you will reach the start will make the weekend considerably easier. For a first marathon, concentrate on preparing properly for 42.2km rather than worrying excessively about the course. Long runs, practising your fuelling and learning to control your pace will have a much greater influence on your experience. Runners make their way along Mariahilfer Straße during the Vienna City Marathon, around 18–19km into the race as the course heads back towards central Vienna after Schönbrunn. How To Enter The Vienna City Marathon 2027 Standard registration for the Vienna City Marathon 2027 is now closed. Registration closed on 20 September 2026 after marathon places filled earlier than ever before in the history of the event. Runners who missed general registration can join the official marathon waiting list. Joining the waiting list is free, but it does not guarantee that you will receive a place. If reserved entries are returned, available places are allocated to runners on the waiting list in order. The organiser says this process can continue until 7 March 2027, so joining the list provides a possible route into the marathon even though normal registration has ended. If a place becomes available, it is allocated to the next runner on the waiting list and confirmation is sent by email. The entry fee is then charged. Runners who are not allocated a place are not charged. Anyone still hoping to run should also investigate legitimate charity and authorised travel options where places remain available. Check exactly what is included and any additional costs or fundraising commitments before accepting an entry. Do not buy a race number privately unless the organiser specifically permits an official transfer. Always use the race's authorised entry systems. Running The Vienna City Marathon For Charity Charity running has an established place within the Vienna City Marathon, with runners using the event to support Austrian and international organisations. This route becomes particularly relevant now that standard 2027 marathon registration has closed. Places may be available separately through charity partners, so runners without an entry should check current availability directly with participating organisations rather than assuming that every charity still has places. Before accepting a charity entry, understand the required fundraising target, deadlines and any registration costs. You should also check what happens if injury or another problem prevents you from taking part. If you already have a Vienna City Marathon place, you can still use your run to raise money independently for a charity that matters to you. Read more about applying for charity entries here or running the race for charity with your own entry here. Where To Stay Vienna has a large accommodation market and its public transport system means you do not necessarily need to stay immediately beside either the start or finish. The Innere Stadt is ideal if sightseeing is an important part of your trip. Staying around the historic centre puts many of Vienna's major attractions within walking distance and leaves you close to the marathon finish on the Ringstraße. Leopoldstadt can be particularly convenient for runners because it lies between central Vienna, the Prater and the Danube. Landstraße is another useful option, particularly around Wien Mitte, with strong public transport connections to the centre and other parts of the city. With the marathon reaching capacity considerably earlier than in previous years, accommodation demand around race weekend could also be strong. If you have secured a place, booking somewhere suitable well before April is sensible. Compare Vienna City Marathon accommodation and current prices → Our Verdict The Vienna City Marathon combines many of the qualities runners look for in a European destination marathon. The course is relatively quick, the organisation is established and the race takes runners through a capital filled with history, architecture and culture. Its route also has a character of its own. From the opening crossing of the Reichsbrücke to Schönbrunn, the Prater and the final approach along the Ringstraße, the marathon provides a genuine journey through Vienna rather than simply using the city as a backdrop. Demand for 2027 demonstrates how popular the race has become. Standard marathon registration has already closed earlier than ever before, so runners without a place should investigate the official waiting list, charity opportunities and authorised travel options rather than expecting general registration to reopen. For anyone who does secure a place, Vienna offers the opportunity to run one of Europe's established city marathons while experiencing a destination that has also played a unique part in the history of the marathon distance. Race Website https://www.vienna-marathon.com Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

Nike is one of the most recognisable sports brands in the world, but running has been central to the company since its earliest days. From Bill Bowerman experimenting with running shoe designs in Oregon to the development of Nike Air, ZoomX foam and carbon plated racing shoes, running footwear has repeatedly been used by Nike as a testing ground for new ideas. Today, the Nike running range stretches from dependable shoes for everyday miles to maximum cushion models, stability footwear, trail shoes and some of the most recognisable carbon plated racers in the sport. The Pegasus remains its long established everyday option, the Vomero family provides greater cushioning and the Structure focuses on additional support. Move towards faster running and shoes including the Zoom Fly, Vaporfly and Alphafly take over. This guide explains what Nike running shoes are known for, how the main technologies and ranges differ and some of the models worth knowing about. It is a starting point rather than a complete catalogue, with numerous models, previous generations and regional variations available at the same time. Who Is Nike? Nike's origins can be traced to Blue Ribbon Sports, the company established by Phil Knight and his former University of Oregon athletics coach Bill Bowerman in 1964. Bowerman was particularly interested in improving running footwear. Rather than simply accepting the shoes available at the time, he experimented with different constructions in an attempt to make footwear lighter and better suited to his athletes. One of his important early designs became the Cortez. Its combination of cushioning and road running performance helped establish the foundations of what would become Nike's footwear business. The Nike name was introduced in the early 1970s, accompanied by the Swoosh logo that would become one of the world's most recognisable sporting symbols. Bowerman continued experimenting with footwear and famously used a waffle iron while developing an outsole pattern designed to provide traction without conventional metal spikes. The resulting Waffle Trainer helped establish Nike as an important running brand during the running boom of the 1970s. The company subsequently expanded far beyond running, but footwear for runners continued to play an important role in its product development. Nike Air arrived in running footwear during the late 1970s, while the Pegasus followed in the early 1980s. Later decades brought technologies including Zoom Air, Flyknit and React foam, followed more recently by ZoomX, carbon fibre plates and the modern generation of Nike racing shoes. Nike is now a global sports company covering numerous sports and lifestyle categories, but running remains closely connected to both its history and its current footwear technology. What Makes Nike Running Shoes Different? Nike has one of the broadest ranges in running, so there is no single characteristic shared by every shoe. The Pegasus is designed around responsive everyday running, while the Vomero family moves towards greater cushioning. The Structure provides additional support, and the Vaporfly and Alphafly are specialist racing shoes built around lightweight foam, carbon fibre plates and performance focused geometry. One of Nike's strengths is the way technology appears in different parts of the range. Air cushioning that became famous decades ago remains relevant in modern shoes, while ZoomX foam can now be found in both highly cushioned daily footwear and specialist racing models. Nike has been particularly influential in modern road racing footwear. Its development of shoes combining highly responsive foam, increased stack heights, carbon fibre plates and carefully designed geometry helped change expectations around what a racing shoe could provide. That performance technology should not obscure the rest of the collection. Most runners looking for a regular Nike running shoe are more likely to need something from the Pegasus, Vomero or Structure families than an Alphafly. How Do Nike Running Shoes Fit? Fit varies across Nike running shoes, so do not assume that every model will feel the same simply because it carries the Swoosh. A regular Pegasus has a very different purpose from a lightweight Vaporfly or Alphafly, and the uppers, internal volume and shape of those shoes reflect their different roles. Nike also changes the fit of individual shoe families between generations. The Pegasus 42 is a useful example. Nike increased the space around the forefoot and toe box compared with its predecessor, demonstrating why experience with an older version does not guarantee that a newer model will fit identically. Some Nike running shoes are available in alternative widths, although the options vary according to model and market. If you require a wider fit, check the particular shoe rather than assuming every model is offered in the same widths. Check that you have sufficient room around the toes while your heel and midfoot remain secure. Feet can expand during longer runs, so how a shoe feels after several miles matters more than how snug it feels when you first put it on. What About Heel Drop? There is no standard heel drop across Nike running shoes. Different parts of the range use different geometries according to the purpose of the shoe. The Pegasus 42, Vomero 18, Vomero Plus and Structure 26 use a 10mm drop. Nike's faster footwear can move lower, with the Zoom Fly 6 and Alphafly 3 using an 8mm drop and the Vaporfly 4 using 6mm. Heel drop describes the difference in height between the heel and forefoot. It can be useful when comparing a new Nike shoe with something you already run comfortably in, particularly when the difference between the two is substantial. Do not use heel drop alone to decide whether a shoe will suit you. Stack height, cushioning, rocker geometry, stiffness and the way the shoe interacts with your stride all contribute to how it feels when you run. Read more about heel drop here. What Is Nike Running Shoe Cushioning Like? There is no single Nike cushioning experience. The company uses several different technologies to create shoes ranging from everyday options to maximum cushion models and lightweight performance footwear. ReactX is used across parts of Nike's everyday running collection. ZoomX sits towards the lighter and more responsive end of the company's foam technology and appears in both racing footwear and highly cushioned road shoes. Air Zoom adds another element. Rather than being a conventional foam, it uses pressurised units containing tensile fibres that compress under load and return towards their original shape. Nike also combines these technologies within individual shoes. The Pegasus Premium, for example, uses ZoomX, a sculpted full length Air Zoom unit and ReactX within the same cushioning system. Do not choose a Nike shoe solely because it contains a particular foam or Air unit. The amount of cushioning, stack height, geometry and the presence of a plate can substantially change the finished ride. What Is ReactX Foam? ReactX is one of Nike's principal foams for everyday running footwear and developed from the company's earlier React cushioning. It appears in several parts of the current collection. The Pegasus 42 combines ReactX with a full length Air Zoom unit, while the Structure 26 uses a full length ReactX midsole as part of a more supportive construction. ReactX is also used in Nike trail footwear, demonstrating the versatility of the material. That does not mean every ReactX shoe provides the same experience. The amount and shape of the cushioning surrounding your foot remain important. A supportive Structure and an everyday Pegasus can use the same underlying foam technology while being designed for different runners and different purposes. What Is ZoomX Foam? ZoomX is Nike's lightweight, highly responsive performance foam and has become one of the company's most important running technologies. It is strongly associated with Nike's racing shoes. The Vaporfly and Alphafly both use ZoomX as part of their performance focused constructions, where keeping weight down while providing substantial cushioning and responsiveness is particularly important. ZoomX is no longer limited to racing. The Vomero Plus uses a full length ZoomX midsole to create a highly cushioned everyday running shoe, while the Vomero 18 combines ZoomX with ReactX. That makes ZoomX a good example of why runners should look beyond the name of the foam. In a Vaporfly it forms part of a lightweight racing package. In a Vomero Plus, a much larger volume is used to create a cushioned daily shoe. What Is Nike Air Zoom? Air cushioning has been part of Nike footwear for decades, but modern Air Zoom is considerably more sophisticated than the early Air units that helped establish the technology. Air Zoom units contain pressurised air and tensile fibres. When loaded, the unit compresses before returning towards its original shape, allowing Nike to add responsive cushioning to different types of shoe. The Pegasus 42 uses a curved, full length Air Zoom unit alongside ReactX foam. The Pegasus Premium uses a sculpted full length unit between ZoomX and ReactX, while the Alphafly 3 places two prominent Air Zoom units beneath the forefoot as part of its specialist racing construction. Air Zoom therefore describes a technology rather than one particular type of running shoe. How the unit is positioned and what surrounds it are important to the finished experience. What Are Nike Flyplates? Nike uses plates within some of its faster running shoes to influence stiffness, responsiveness and the way the shoe moves through the stride. The Vaporfly 4 and Alphafly 3 both use full length carbon fibre Flyplates as part of their race focused constructions. The plate works together with the foam and geometry rather than functioning as an isolated component beneath the foot. The Zoom Fly 6 also uses a full length carbon fibre Flyplate, but it is a more substantial shoe intended to bridge training and racing. It therefore occupies a different role despite sharing some technology with Nike's specialist race shoes. A carbon plate alone does not make two shoes equivalent. Foam, weight, plate geometry, stack height and the overall shape of the shoe all influence how it behaves. Does Nike Make Neutral Running Shoes? Yes. A large part of Nike's road running range is made up of shoes without dedicated stability systems. The Pegasus 42 is one of its best known everyday options, while the Vomero family provides alternatives for runners who want more cushioning. The wider Pegasus family also includes models offering different combinations of responsiveness and cushioning. Nike's faster training and racing footwear also largely sits outside the conventional stability category. The Zoom Fly, Vaporfly and Alphafly are designed primarily around performance rather than structured support. Neutral does not mean that every shoe will feel equally stable. Platform width, heel construction, cushioning and geometry can all provide inherent stability without turning a shoe into a conventional stability model. Does Nike Make Stability Running Shoes? Yes. The Structure family is Nike's main road running range for runners wanting additional support. The Structure 26 uses a full length ReactX midsole alongside a midfoot support system designed to create a stable platform through the stride. Nike's modern approach is different from simply relying on the firm medial posts traditionally associated with stability footwear. Support therefore comes from the overall construction of the shoe, including its platform and geometry. Nike has also expanded the Structure family, giving runners more than one way to access supportive cushioning within its current road collection. Not every runner who overpronates automatically needs a stability shoe. Comfort, fit and how the shoe behaves while you are running remain important considerations. Does Nike Make Carbon Plated Running Shoes? Yes. Nike produces several carbon plated road running shoes covering different types of faster training and racing. The Vaporfly 4 is a lightweight racing shoe combining ZoomX foam with a full length carbon fibre Flyplate. The Alphafly 3 adds forefoot Air Zoom units to its ZoomX cushioning and carbon plate, creating a different racing experience aimed particularly at the half marathon and marathon. The Zoom Fly 6 also contains a carbon fibre plate but occupies a different position in the range. It is more substantial and versatile, allowing it to cover faster training as well as racing. A carbon plated shoe is not necessary simply because you are entering a race. Comfort, fit and whether you can run confidently in the shoe over your chosen distance remain important. Read more about super shoes here. Does Nike Make Trail Running Shoes? Yes. Nike produces dedicated trail footwear alongside its much larger road running collection. The Pegasus Trail family provides one of the most accessible routes into Nike trail footwear. It combines road shoe influences with greater grip and protection, making it particularly relevant for runners whose routes move between roads, gravel, parks and less technical trails. Nike also produces other trail models for runners requiring different combinations of cushioning, grip and protection. The right model therefore depends heavily on the terrain and type of running you plan to do. Choose a trail shoe according to where you actually run. Dry park paths, muddy woodland, loose rock and technical mountain trails place very different demands on grip, cushioning and protection. Read more about trail shoes here. Which Nike Running Shoes Should You Consider? The Nike range is extensive and changes regularly, with previous generations often remaining available after a new model appears. The shoes below represent some of the most important parts of the current collection rather than every Nike running shoe you can buy. Nike Pegasus 42 The Pegasus 42 (pictured above) is the latest generation of one of Nike's most important running shoe families. The Pegasus first appeared in the early 1980s and has remained a central part of the collection for more than four decades. The current version uses ReactX foam together with a curved, full length Air Zoom unit. Nike has also increased the space around the forefoot and toe box compared with its predecessor. Its purpose remains straightforward. The Pegasus is an everyday road running shoe designed to handle regular training rather than specialising in maximum cushioning or racing. Easy runs, general training and longer steady mileage all fit naturally within its role, making it a logical starting point for runners wanting one Nike shoe to cover much of their running. Nike Vomero 18 The Vomero 18 moves further towards cushioning and comfort. It combines ZoomX foam over ReactX in a dual density midsole and provides considerably more cushioning beneath the foot than earlier generations of the shoe. Its role is regular road running, easy mileage and longer sessions where cushioning takes priority over outright speed. The combination of two foams also separates it from the Vomero Plus, which uses ZoomX throughout its midsole. Consider the Vomero 18 if you want a more cushioned everyday Nike shoe than the Pegasus without moving into specialist performance footwear. Nike Vomero Plus The Vomero Plus pushes the cushioning concept further by using a tall stack of full length ZoomX foam. That creates an important distinction within the Vomero family. The standard Vomero 18 combines ZoomX and ReactX, while the Plus uses ZoomX throughout its midsole to create a softer and more responsive maximum cushion experience. It is primarily intended for daily mileage, longer runs and recovery running rather than racing. Despite sharing its foam with Nike's fastest shoes, the amount of cushioning and overall construction give it a very different purpose. Nike Structure 26 The Structure 26 is one of Nike's principal supportive everyday road shoes. It uses a full length ReactX midsole and a midfoot support system designed to provide greater stability through the stride. Rather than using a conventional firm medial post, the shoe creates support through its platform and overall construction. Its role is regular road running for people who prefer additional guidance. That makes it a useful comparison with the Pegasus, which covers a similar everyday part of the range without the Structure's dedicated support system. Nike Pegasus Premium The Pegasus Premium takes the familiar Pegasus name in a much more technology focused direction. It combines ZoomX foam, a sculpted full length Air Zoom unit and ReactX foam within the same shoe. The result is designed to provide a more responsive and highly cushioned experience than the regular Pegasus. Despite sharing the Pegasus name, the two shoes should not be treated as direct equivalents. Runners wanting a straightforward and versatile daily shoe may prefer the Pegasus 42, while the Premium provides a more elaborate interpretation of everyday Nike running footwear. Nike Zoom Fly 6 The Zoom Fly 6 sits between conventional training footwear and Nike's specialist racing shoes. It combines ZoomX foam with a full length carbon fibre Flyplate, giving runners access to some of Nike's performance technology in a more substantial package than the Vaporfly or Alphafly. Its role includes faster sessions, race training and racing. This versatility is important because the presence of a carbon plate does not make it simply another Vaporfly. The Zoom Fly is designed to handle more regular training. Nike Vaporfly 4 The Vaporfly 4 (pictured below) is Nike's lightweight carbon plated road racing shoe and the latest generation of a family that played an important role in the development of modern super shoes. It combines ZoomX cushioning with a full length carbon fibre Flyplate and a lightweight construction designed around faster road racing. The fourth generation has a 6mm heel to toe drop and weighs approximately 190g in a men's size 9. Nike positions the Vaporfly 4 for road racing from 10K through the half marathon and marathon. It is specialist performance footwear rather than simply a faster version of an everyday Nike shoe, so use it during training before relying on it for an important race. Nike Alphafly 3 The Alphafly 3 sits at the specialist long distance end of Nike's road racing range. Its construction combines ZoomX foam, two Air Zoom units beneath the forefoot and a full length carbon fibre Flyplate. The third generation uses a fully connected ZoomX midsole and a slightly wider carbon plate than its predecessor. Nike positions the Alphafly particularly around the half marathon and marathon. Its geometry and prominent forefoot Air Zoom units create a different experience from the Vaporfly, so the two shoes should not be treated as interchangeable simply because both contain ZoomX and carbon fibre plates. If you are considering an Alphafly for an important race, use it during training first to make sure its fit and unusual geometry work comfortably with your running. Nike Pegasus Trail The Pegasus Trail family takes the familiar Pegasus concept beyond the road, combining cushioned running with an outsole and construction designed to provide greater traction and protection on mixed terrain. It is particularly relevant for runners moving between roads, gravel, parks and established trails, where the versatility of a road to trail shoe can be useful. More technical terrain can require more specialist grip and protection. The Pegasus Trail should therefore be considered according to the surfaces you actually run on rather than simply as the off road equivalent of the road Pegasus. Nike Vaporfly 4 Are Nike Running Shoes Good For Beginners? They can be. Nike makes several straightforward everyday running shoes alongside its specialist performance footwear, giving new runners plenty of choice without requiring them to understand every technology in the range. The Pegasus is an obvious place to investigate if you want a versatile everyday road shoe, while the Vomero provides more cushioning. Runners who prefer additional support can look towards the Structure family. There is no need for a beginner to buy a Vaporfly or Alphafly simply because those shoes are associated with fast marathon performances. One comfortable everyday running shoe can cover a great deal of running while you discover what type of fit, cushioning and ride you prefer. Getting the fit right is more important than buying the Nike shoe with the most cushioning, highest price or greatest amount of technology. Are Nike Running Shoes Sustainable? Nike has established environmental targets across its wider business and has increased the use of recycled materials in parts of its footwear and clothing ranges. Materials are an important part of that work. Nike uses recycled materials in numerous products, while manufacturing technologies such as Flyknit were developed partly to reduce waste associated with more conventional footwear construction. Nike also reuses waste generated during the production of its Air units, while recycled content appears in a number of current running shoes. ReactX was developed with manufacturing emissions in mind as well as performance, with Nike reporting a lower carbon footprint for a pair of ReactX midsoles than its previous React foam. Those company wide initiatives do not mean every Nike running shoe has the same environmental impact. Materials and manufacturing processes vary between models and generations, so check the sustainability information for the particular shoe you are considering. Read more about sustainable running shoes here. Are Nike Running Shoes Worth Trying? Nike is worth considering whether you want a versatile everyday road shoe, maximum cushioning, additional support, trail footwear, faster training shoes or specialist carbon plated racing footwear. The Pegasus remains the most obvious starting point for everyday running, but the modern range extends considerably further. The Vomero family gives runners several highly cushioned options, while the Structure family provides additional support. Performance footwear remains one of Nike's most distinctive areas. The Zoom Fly bridges faster training and racing, while the Vaporfly and Alphafly provide two different approaches to specialist carbon plated footwear. The size of the range can make choosing more complicated than it initially appears. Start with the type of running you need the shoe to handle and compare models within that part of the collection rather than choosing according to the technology with the most familiar name. Final Thoughts On Nike Running Shoes Nike's relationship with running stretches back to the company's earliest years. Bill Bowerman's experiments with footwear helped establish the brand, while technologies including Air, ZoomX and carbon fibre plates have continued its focus on running shoe development. The modern collection is much broader than the high profile racing shoes for which Nike has attracted so much attention. The Pegasus remains a dependable everyday option, the Vomero family provides greater cushioning and the Structure adds support, while the Zoom Fly, Vaporfly and Alphafly cover increasingly performance focused running. The best Nike running shoe for you is not necessarily its fastest, softest or most technically advanced model. Fit, comfort and whether the shoe does the job you need it to do remain more important than the amount of technology beneath your feet. Read about other shoe brands here. Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

Brooks is one of the most established names in running shoes, with a range that stretches from dependable shoes for everyday miles to stability footwear, maximum cushion models, trail shoes and carbon plated racers. Models such as the Ghost and Adrenaline GTS have become familiar sights at running clubs and races around the world, while newer shoes have pushed Brooks further into maximum cushioning and high performance running. The range is broader than many runners realise. The Ghost remains a versatile everyday option, the Glycerin provides a more plush experience and the Adrenaline GTS adds structured support. The Ghost Max pushes cushioning and protection further, while the Hyperion family covers faster training and racing and the Cascadia remains an important part of the company's trail collection. This guide explains what Brooks running shoes are known for, how the main technologies and ranges differ and some of the models worth knowing about. It is a starting point rather than a complete catalogue, with numerous models, previous generations, different widths and regional variations available at the same time. Who Is Brooks? Brooks is an American running brand whose history stretches back to 1914. The company began in a small factory in Philadelphia, initially producing bathing shoes and ballet slippers rather than the running footwear for which it is known today. Over the following decades, Brooks produced footwear for several different sports. Baseball cleats arrived during the 1920s, while its varied history also included roller skates, football footwear and other specialist shoes. The company's move towards running accelerated in the 1970s. American Frank Shorter's victory in the marathon at the 1972 Munich Olympics helped fuel a running boom in the United States, and Brooks began concentrating more seriously on footwear for runners. In 1974, Brooks developed the Villanova with feedback from Olympic middle distance runner Marty Liquori. Three years later, the Vantage became a best seller and included an early use of EVA cushioning, a material that would go on to become enormously important throughout the running shoe industry. The Adrenaline GTS arrived in 1999 and helped establish another important part of the modern Brooks range. A bigger change followed in 2001 when the company decided to concentrate on running rather than continuing to produce footwear for numerous different sports. Brooks is now based in Seattle and produces shoes for road running, trail running and racing alongside running clothing and accessories. The long established families like the Ghost and Glycerin now sit alongside newer maximum cushion and performance models. What Makes Brooks Running Shoes Different? Brooks has built much of its reputation around comfortable and dependable running shoes. Models such as the Ghost and Adrenaline have developed loyal followings partly because runners know broadly what role those shoes are intended to perform. That does not mean every Brooks shoe feels similar. The Ghost Max combines a high stack with rocker geometry, while the Hyperion range has a very different focus on faster training and racing. Support is another important part of the Brooks range. The company offers conventional neutral shoes alongside GTS models using its GuideRails system, while some neutral models use broad platforms and their geometry to create greater inherent stability. The result is a range that extends well beyond the dependable everyday shoes for which Brooks is best known. How Do Brooks Running Shoes Fit? Fit varies across Brooks running shoes, although one of the company's strengths is the number of width options available in some of its most popular models. The Ghost and Adrenaline GTS, for example, are available in several widths, which can make Brooks particularly useful for runners who struggle to find an appropriate fit in standard width footwear. Do not assume every Brooks shoe will fit identically. A Ghost designed for everyday mileage, a highly cushioned Glycerin and a lightweight Hyperion Elite racing shoe have different purposes and their uppers are designed accordingly. Check that you have sufficient room around the toes while your heel and midfoot remain secure. Your feet can expand during longer runs, so the fit after several miles matters more than how a shoe feels for a few moments when you first put it on. If possible, try the exact model and width you are considering with your usual running socks. This becomes particularly important if you are moving between different Brooks shoe families or from a conventional daily shoe into a closer fitting performance model. What About Heel Drop? There is no single heel drop across Brooks running shoes. Current models range from relatively traditional higher drop everyday shoes to lower drop maximum cushion and performance footwear. The Ghost 18 and Adrenaline GTS 25, for example, use a 10mm drop, while the Glycerin 23 has an 8mm drop. Other models move lower still, demonstrating why you should check the specifications of the particular shoe and generation you are considering. Heel drop describes the difference in height between the heel and forefoot. It can be useful when comparing a new Brooks shoe with something you already run comfortably in, particularly when the difference between the two is substantial. Do not use heel drop alone to decide whether a shoe will suit you. Stack height, cushioning, rocker geometry, stiffness and the way the shoe interacts with your stride all contribute to how it feels when you run. Read more about heel drop here. What Is Brooks Cushioning Like? There is no single Brooks cushioning experience. The company uses several different midsole materials to create shoes ranging from balanced everyday options to plush high stack models and lightweight performance footwear. DNA Loft v3 is a nitrogen infused foam used in shoes including the Ghost 18 and Ghost Max 4. The amount of foam and the geometry surrounding it differ considerably between those models, allowing Brooks to create different running experiences from the same underlying cushioning technology. DNA Tuned takes a different approach. Brooks uses different cell sizes within the foam to alter how the cushioning behaves in different parts of the shoe, with the intention of combining softer landings with a more responsive toe off. It is an important part of the current Glycerin range. At the performance end of the collection, Brooks uses lighter and more responsive foams alongside different plate and rocker constructions in the Hyperion family. Do not choose a Brooks shoe solely because it contains a particular foam. The amount of cushioning, stack height, geometry and any plate or rocker within the shoe can substantially change the finished ride. What Is DNA Loft v3? DNA Loft v3 is one of Brooks' main cushioning materials for everyday and maximum cushion running shoes. It uses a nitrogen infused construction designed to provide soft cushioning while keeping weight under control. The Ghost 18 uses DNA Loft v3 to create the balanced cushioning associated with the Ghost family. The Ghost Max 4 uses a higher stack of cushioning and combines it with different geometry and a GlideRoll Rocker, creating a more protective and assisted ride. That difference demonstrates why the name of the cushioning material should not determine your choice by itself. Two shoes can use related cushioning technology while being designed for noticeably different types of running. What Is DNA Tuned? DNA Tuned is Brooks' cushioning system used in the current Glycerin family. Instead of giving the entire midsole exactly the same characteristics, its dual cell construction uses different cell sizes in different areas of the shoe. The intention is to provide softer landings while retaining a more responsive sensation at toe off. The Glycerin 23 also has additional cushioning beneath the forefoot compared with its predecessor. The Glycerin GTS 23 combines the same cushioning concept with GuideRails structured support. That allows runners who enjoy the Glycerin's cushioning to choose between the standard model and a version offering additional guidance. What Are DNA Gold And DNA Flash? Brooks uses different cushioning materials in its faster training and racing shoes, where keeping weight down and creating a more responsive ride become greater priorities. DNA Gold sits at the performance end of the range and is used in the Hyperion Elite 6. The shoe combines its lightweight cushioning with a carbon SpeedVault+ plate and rocker geometry to create a dedicated race day package. The Hyperion Max 4 combines DNA Gold with DNA Flash v2 and uses a nylon SpeedVault plate rather than the carbon construction of the Elite. It is designed primarily as a fast training shoe rather than a dedicated carbon plated racer. The distinction is important. Brooks' faster training shoe and its specialist racing shoe share some performance technology, but their cushioning, plates and intended uses are different. How Does Brooks Stability Technology Work? Stability has long been an important part of the Brooks range, but the company's modern approach is different from the traditional method of placing a firm medial post along the inside of a running shoe. Its best known support technology is the GuideRails system. Rather than attempting to control every part of the runner's stride, GuideRails are designed to help limit excess movement when it occurs. The technology appears in GTS models such as the Adrenaline GTS and Glycerin GTS. This means a runner who likes the cushioning of the standard Glycerin can choose a Glycerin GTS with structured support without moving to a completely different shoe family. Brooks also uses platform width, cushioning and geometry to create inherent stability in shoes without GuideRails. Additional stability therefore does not automatically mean choosing a conventional support shoe. What Do Brooks Support Levels Mean? Brooks uses its own terminology to describe the support provided by different shoes, so its product descriptions can initially be confusing if you are accustomed to simply dividing footwear into neutral and stability categories. A shoe such as the Ghost 18 is described as providing Balanced Support. It does not use GuideRails but combines a secure heel and the construction of the shoe to provide inherent stability. Brooks describes GTS models using GuideRails as providing Structured Support. Other shoes can provide substantial inherent support through a broad base, cushioning and geometry without becoming traditional stability shoes. The Ghost Max is a good example of why it is useful to understand how the support is being created rather than relying solely on a label. What Are SpeedVault Plates And RapidRoll? Brooks uses SpeedVault plates in some of its faster shoes, but not every plate is made from the same material or intended for the same purpose. The Hyperion Max 4 uses a nylon SpeedVault plate to help create quicker transitions during faster training. The Hyperion Elite 6 uses a carbon SpeedVault+ plate as part of a more aggressive race day construction. RapidRoll describes Brooks' rocker geometry designed to assist the transition towards toe off. It works alongside the cushioning and plate rather than acting as a separate propulsion system. These technologies illustrate the difference between the Hyperion training and racing models. A plated shoe is not automatically a carbon super shoe, and the type of plate and the construction surrounding it matter considerably. Does Brooks Make Neutral Running Shoes? Yes. Brooks makes a large range of road shoes without its structured GuideRails system, covering everyday training, maximum cushioning, faster sessions and racing. The Ghost 18 is one of its best known everyday options, while the Glycerin 23 provides a softer, more cushioned ride. The Ghost Max adds a higher stack and rocker geometry for runners wanting greater cushioning and an assisted transition. At the faster end of the range, Brooks also produces performance shoes without structured GuideRails support, including models within the Hyperion family. Neutral does not mean that every shoe will feel equally stable. A broad platform, midsole geometry and the shape of the upper can all provide inherent stability without turning a shoe into a traditional stability model. Does Brooks Make Stability Running Shoes? Yes. Stability footwear remains one of Brooks' strongest areas, with the Adrenaline GTS among the best known support shoes in running. The Adrenaline GTS 25 combines cushioned everyday running with Brooks' GuideRails technology. It is designed for runners who want structured support in a regular road shoe rather than maximum cushioning. The Glycerin GTS 23 provides another option. It combines the cushioning of the standard Glycerin with GuideRails, making it suitable for runners who want greater cushioning and comfort, alongside structured support. Brooks also makes more substantial support footwear, including the Beast GTS and Ariel GTS. This gives the company several options rather than one stability model intended to suit everyone. Not every runner who overpronates automatically needs a stability shoe. Comfort, fit and how the shoe behaves while you are running remain important considerations. Does Brooks Make Carbon Plated Running Shoes? Yes. Brooks produces specialist carbon plated road racing footwear, with the Hyperion Elite 6 sitting at the performance end of its current road range. The Hyperion Elite 6 combines lightweight performance cushioning with a carbon SpeedVault+ plate and RapidRoll rocker geometry. Brooks has changed the plate angles and geometry from the previous generation to create a more aggressive racing construction. It is designed specifically for road racing rather than everyday training, with the half marathon and marathon among the distances for which this type of shoe is likely to be considered. Brooks also uses plates in training footwear, but that does not make every plated Brooks shoe a carbon racer. The Hyperion Max 4, for example, uses a nylon SpeedVault plate. A carbon plated shoe is not necessary simply because you are racing. Comfort, fit and whether you can run confidently in the shoe over your chosen distance remain important. Read more about super shoes here. Does Brooks Make Trail Running Shoes? Yes. Brooks has a substantial trail range, and the Cascadia has been one of its best known off road shoes for around two decades. The Cascadia 20 continues that family as a dedicated trail shoe, while the wider Brooks range provides alternatives for runners looking for different combinations of cushioning, speed and protection. The Ghost family has also moved off road with the Ghost Trail, providing an option aimed at surfaces such as city parks, gravel and groomed trails rather than more technical mountain terrain. At the more performance focused end, Brooks also produces trail racing shoes. The right model therefore depends heavily on the terrain and the type of running you plan to do. Choose a trail shoe according to where you actually run. Dry park paths, muddy woodland, loose rock and technical mountain trails place very different demands on grip, cushioning and protection. Read more about trail shoes here. Which Brooks Running Shoes Should You Consider? The Brooks range is extensive and changes regularly, with previous generations often remaining available after a new model appears. The shoes below represent some of the most important parts of the current collection rather than every Brooks running shoe you can buy. Brooks Ghost 18 The Ghost 18 is one of Brooks' core everyday road running shoes and a useful starting point for understanding the brand. It uses nitrogen infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning and has a 10mm midsole drop, creating the balanced everyday ride associated with the Ghost family. It is designed for daily running rather than one particular specialist session. Easy runs and regular training mileage fit naturally within its role, making it particularly useful for runners who want one dependable shoe to cover much of their running. Brooks also offers the Ghost in multiple widths. That combination of a straightforward purpose, balanced cushioning and width options helps explain why the Ghost has remained such an important part of the Brooks range. Brooks Glycerin 23 The Glycerin 23 moves further towards a more cushioned ride. It uses DNA Tuned foam and adds more cushioning beneath the forefoot than its predecessor. The intention is to provide soft landings while retaining enough response at toe off to stop the shoe feeling entirely focused on softness. Its broad platform also contributes to a smooth and stable transition through the stride. Consider the Glycerin if you want a neutral everyday Brooks shoe with a softer and more cushioned feel than the Ghost. It is designed for regular road running and longer runs rather than outright speed. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 The Adrenaline GTS 25 (pictured below) is one of Brooks' key stability shoes. The Adrenaline family dates back to 1999 and has become one of the company's defining support ranges. The current shoe combines cushioned everyday running with the GuideRails system to provide structured support. Its role is relatively straightforward: regular road running for people who prefer additional guidance. That makes it a useful comparison with the Ghost, which covers a similar everyday part of the range without GuideRails structured support. If you have used much older versions of the Adrenaline, do not assume the modern shoe will provide exactly the same experience simply because the name remains. Brooks Glycerin GTS 23 The Glycerin GTS 23 takes the DNA Tuned cushioning of the standard Glycerin and adds Brooks' GuideRails support system. That gives runners a useful choice within the same family. If you enjoy the cushioning and fit of the Glycerin but prefer structured support, the GTS version provides it without requiring you to move to a completely different cushioning concept. Brooks Ghost Max 4 The Ghost Max 4 pushes beyond the standard Ghost towards greater cushioning and protection. Its high stack construction is combined with GlideRoll Rocker geometry designed to assist the transition from landing towards toe off. A broad base provides inherent stability without the GuideRails structured support used in Brooks' GTS models. This distinction matters because a stable feeling running shoe is not necessarily a conventional stability shoe. Consider the Ghost Max for easy running, longer runs and recovery sessions if you want more cushioning and an assisted transition. Despite sharing the Ghost name, it provides a noticeably different experience from the standard Ghost 18. Brooks Hyperion Max 4 The Hyperion Max 4 is designed for faster training rather than straightforward easy mileage. It combines performance cushioning with a nylon SpeedVault plate and RapidRoll rocker geometry. Despite the Max name, its purpose is not simply to provide maximum softness. It is intended for faster sessions and long runs where cushioning and quicker transitions can both be useful. It is important not to confuse it with the Hyperion Elite. The Max uses a nylon plate and is primarily a training shoe, while the Elite uses a carbon plate and is designed specifically around racing. Brooks Hyperion Elite 6 The Hyperion Elite 6 is Brooks' specialist carbon plated road racing shoe. It combines lightweight performance cushioning with a carbon SpeedVault+ plate and aggressive RapidRoll geometry. This is specialist performance footwear rather than simply a lighter everyday Brooks shoe. Its construction is designed around faster road racing, where reducing weight and creating an efficient transition become greater priorities than everyday durability and versatility. If you are considering it for an important race, use it during training first to make sure the fit, geometry and plate work comfortably with your running. Brooks Cascadia 20 The Cascadia 20 continues one of Brooks' longest established trail shoe families. The Cascadia range has been part of the company's off road collection for around two decades and remains designed around versatile trail running. It is a more dedicated off road option than the Ghost Trail, making it a logical place to start for runners who regularly move beyond roads, gravel and straightforward park paths. As with any trail shoe, terrain should influence whether it suits you. Grip and protection requirements change considerably between dry tracks, mud, loose surfaces and technical mountain trails. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 Are Brooks Running Shoes Good For Beginners? They can be. Brooks makes several straightforward everyday running shoes alongside its specialist performance footwear, giving new runners plenty of options without requiring them to understand every technology in the range. The Ghost is an obvious place to investigate if you want a conventional everyday road shoe, while the Glycerin provides a softer, more cushioned ride. Runners who prefer structured support can look towards the Adrenaline GTS. Brooks' range of width options can also be useful for beginners who have previously struggled to find comfortable running footwear. Getting an appropriate fit is more important than buying the shoe with the most cushioning or newest technology. There is no need for a beginner to buy a carbon plated Hyperion Elite or create a rotation of several different shoes. One comfortable everyday running shoe can cover a great deal of running while you discover what type of fit, cushioning and ride you prefer. Are Brooks Running Shoes Sustainable? Brooks has established environmental targets across its wider business, including work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase the use of recycled materials and reduce the environmental impact associated with producing its footwear. Recycled content is already used in current models. The Ghost 18, for example, lists more than half of the material in its upper as recycled. Brooks has also previously used carbon neutral versions of the Ghost as part of its environmental programme, combining reductions in product emissions with carbon credits while working towards longer-term emissions reductions. Those company wide initiatives do not mean every Brooks running shoe has the same environmental impact. Materials and manufacturing processes vary between models and generations, so check the sustainability information for the particular shoe you are considering. Read more about sustainable running shoes here. Are Brooks Running Shoes Worth Trying? Brooks is worth considering whether you want a dependable shoe for everyday road running, plush cushioning, structured stability, a high stack option, faster training, trail footwear or a carbon plated racing shoe. Its range is particularly strong for runners who value choice around fit and support. Several core models are available in different widths, while the GTS system allows runners to choose structured support in different types of shoe rather than relying on one stability model. The modern range is also much broader than the Ghost and Adrenaline models for which Brooks has traditionally been best known. Shoes such as the Ghost Max, Hyperion Max and Hyperion Elite give runners options that feel quite different from the company's conventional daily footwear. Start with the type of running you need the shoe to handle and compare models within that part of the range. Fit remains more important than the Brooks name on the side, and even the most technically advanced shoe is the wrong choice if it does not work comfortably with your feet and your running. Final Thoughts On Brooks Running Shoes Brooks has been making footwear since 1914, but its decision to concentrate on running in 2001 helped transform the company into the specialist brand runners recognise today. Its long history now sits alongside modern cushioning, GuideRails support, rocker geometries and plated performance footwear. There are many more Brooks shoes and previous generations available than we can usefully cover in one guide. Start with the type of running you actually do and choose from that part of the range. The best Brooks running shoe for you is not necessarily its fastest, softest or most technically advanced model, but the one that fits properly and does the job you need it to do. Read about other shoe brands here. Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Sapphire Running Zone may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.