Race Reviews

What they liked

Running through all five boroughs with 2 million spectators is unreal. Each neighborhood has its own character and energy. Central Park finish is legendary!

Could be improved

The Verrazzano Bridge start is cold and windy. Lots of bridges which can be tough on the legs.

Tips for runners

Bring warm throwaway clothes for the start - it is very cold waiting on Staten Island. Do not miss the crowd in Brooklyn!

What they liked

Bucket list race! The bridges, the neighborhoods, the energy - nothing compares. First Avenue in Manhattan is the best crowd experience in running.

Could be improved

The five bridge climbs add up. Queensboro Bridge is silent and mentally tough after the Brooklyn crowds.

Tips for runners

Prepare for the emotional silence on Queensboro - First Avenue after makes it worth it. Book hotels early!

What they liked

The fastest course in the world for good reason! Completely flat, fast, and the finish at Brandenburg Gate is unforgettable. Set my PR here!

Could be improved

Can feel a bit industrial in some sections. The inline skaters marathon the day before can be chaotic near the expo.

Tips for runners

If you want a fast time, this is your race. Pace yourself well - the flat course tempts you to go out too fast.

What they liked

Perfect German organization, amazing atmosphere, and the crowd never stops cheering. DJ stages and bands throughout keep energy high.

Could be improved

September weather can be unpredictable. Some sections through parks have limited crowd support.

Tips for runners

Stay near the start for easy race morning. The breakfast run the day before is a nice tradition to join.

What they liked

Running past the Eiffel Tower at sunrise is magical! Perfect distance to experience the city while racing. Great for first-time racers.

Could be improved

Can be crowded at the start. Limited spectator areas due to road closures.

Tips for runners

Start in the correct wave to avoid congestion. Stay for the post-race festivities - they are very French!

What they liked

My home marathon and absolutely the best! Running past Tower Bridge and Big Ben is unforgettable. The charity atmosphere is incredible with amazing costumes.

Could be improved

The ballot is extremely difficult to get into. Some narrow sections around Canary Wharf can get congested.

Tips for runners

Apply through a charity if you do not get in the ballot. Soak in the atmosphere - it is like nothing else!

What they liked

Incredible crowd support throughout - 750,000 spectators cheering! The landmarks make you forget the pain. Finishing on The Mall is pure magic.

Could be improved

Very difficult to secure a place. Transport to the start requires very early wake-up.

Tips for runners

Write your name on your shirt - the crowd will cheer for you personally! Take your time at Tower Bridge.

What they liked

Absolutely incredible crowd support - the spectators never let up! The finish line atmosphere gave me chills. Beautiful course through historic Boston neighborhoods.

Could be improved

Heartbreak Hill is brutal, especially at mile 20. Getting to the start in Hopkinton requires early morning logistics.

Tips for runners

Train specifically for hills and don't underestimate the Newton hills. Start conservative - the course is harder than it looks on paper.

What they liked

Flawless organization from start to finish. Aid stations were perfectly stocked and volunteers were incredible. The prestige of running Boston is unmatched.

Could be improved

Qualifying standards are tough. The point-to-point course means you need to arrange transport back.

Tips for runners

Book your hotel early - they fill up fast. The expo is worth spending time at.

What they liked

Beautiful scenery through historic towns. The crowd carries you through the Newton hills. Iconic finish on Boylston Street.

Could be improved

Weather can be unpredictable - we had unexpected heat one year. Limited bag drop options at the start.

Tips for runners

Dress in layers you can discard at the start. Practice running downhill - the first half is deceptively fast.

What they liked

The city is absolutely beautiful to run through. Gaudi architecture is stunning. Good medal and finisher shirt.

Could be improved

Very crowded at the start - took 5 minutes to cross the line. Some aid stations were chaotic. Course marshaling could improve.

Tips for runners

Start in a corral that matches your pace to avoid congestion. Consider staying an extra day to explore the city.

What they liked

Excellent support throughout the course. Amazing architecture including Sagrada Familia and Casa Batllo. Good value for entry fee.

Could be improved

The final 3km uphill is very challenging. Public transport to the start was crowded.

Tips for runners

Book accommodation near Plaza Espanya for easy finish line access. Train on hills before coming!

What they liked

Running through my home city was magical! The energy along La Rambla and Passeig de Gracia was electric. Perfectly organized with great expo.

Could be improved

The finish at Montjuic involves a challenging hill when you are already tired. Some sections along the beach can be windy.

Tips for runners

Save energy for the Montjuic climb at the end. The Mediterranean weather is usually perfect but bring sunglasses just in case.

What they liked

Beautiful course through the city center with amazing architecture. Great crowd support, especially near Sagrada Familia. Well-organized aid stations.

Could be improved

The final climb to Montjuic is tough. Some sections felt crowded in the first few kilometers.

Tips for runners

Do not go out too fast - the flat first half is deceiving. The hill at the end requires mental strength!

What they liked

Loved the Mediterranean vibes and perfect weather! The course showcases Barcelona beautifully. Great post-race atmosphere.

Could be improved

Water stations could be better organized - some ran out of cups. Signage in some areas was confusing.

Tips for runners

Stay in the city center for easy access to the start. Bring your own hydration vest if you are particular about fueling.

What they liked

World-class Japanese organization - every detail is perfect. The course through central Tokyo passes the Imperial Palace. Incredibly respectful crowds.

Could be improved

Very competitive entry lottery. Early March weather can still be cold.

Tips for runners

Apply early and consider the charity entry option. Enjoy the amazing Japanese hospitality at the expo.