Looking to run 21.1 in Barcelona? Read on!
The Barcelona half marathon is a lovely way to start the year of racing. A fast, flat course in (usually) great weather for running. Jacob Kiplimo took a huge chunk of time off the half marathon world record on his last outing there. While the Meta Endurance team were not quite that fast, we do have some tips for you which may help you achieve your best on your race day in the Catalonian sun.
Alex ran a new PB of 1:17:54. Esther took on her first road race after spending years on the trails. Andy finished with a smile on his face. We got together to come up with our tips gained from our race days.
Alex’s Top Tips:
- Use the toilets at your hotel before you head to the start line
- Cloak rooms are in different places depending on your bib number, check that beforehand and plan your race morning schedule accordingly
- Mid February in BCN is sunny, a pair of sunglasses can be useful
- Stay in a pack for the 16-19km segment to get protected from the wind on that seafront portion of the course
Esther’s Top Tips:
- Sort out drop bag and start line navigation before you get there. Signage is at a minimum and crowds are thick
- Head for Arc de Triomf metro stop for the start line, this was definitely the closest
- Head to your corral much sooner than needed, they are big and packed
- Start line toilets are not ideal. I agree with Alex here
- Don’t expect any nutrition on course, only gels available. Fruit at arrival
- Don’t book a flight out too close to your expected finish time, the roads are clogged, closed and hard to navigate back to the airport
Andy’s Top Tips:
- I have seen worse toilets but that was on day three of Glastonbury. Go early and take your own toilet paper. While you may not use it all, you could very well make someone else’s day with what you have left
- The start line is crowded and tight. To get with your pace group, either get their early or be prepared to battle your way through the throng
- If you live in a country which hasn’t seen much sun since September (thanks England) pack some sun cream. I was feeling it after about 15km
- The water stations are hectic but long. Don’t panic if you miss the first few cups but beware of people cutting in front and coming to a dead halt
- The first 5 or so kilometres are slightly uphill, from about 6.5km in its a fast feeling mainly rolling downhill feeling course
- I agree with Alex about staying with a pack after the small rise to the seafront. Protection from wind is always important
- If you are hoping to buy a metro ticket for your way home from the finish line, bring cash or a physical card and don’t try to cut the line by walking down the escalator or an exasperated Spanish lady will shout at you!
