The Gold Coast Marathon is one of my favourite running events. It’s really well organised, and a lot of fun. I have raced in the half marathon the last few years, and will be heading up again this year. To celebrate, here are 10 things I love about the run!
The race expo – I usually opt to have my bib mailed for most events, but this isn’t an option at the Gold Coast, and the expo is part of the experience. Much bigger than the ones I have been to in Sydney, there are plenty of stands promoting other races and opportunities to buy running gear. Last year, I picked up a hoodie for race morning because I had forgotten mine. Which brings me to the next point!
The early start – while it can be hard to go to bed early enough to be up at 4am, once you arrive the race precinct, the early start is pretty cool. I enjoy setting off in the dark and running while the sun is rising in the early part of the race. The early start also has another benefit…
The weather – I usually pack for warm weather because it’s the Gold Coast, often forgetting that the race starts at 6am! While the sun during the day is a nice change from the chilly winter temperatures we have had in Sydney lately, the weather during the race is perfect for running. That is definitely one reason I keep signing up for the half at this event instead of attempting the full. Another reason is…
The course – often when people talk about flat courses, there is usually a little exception here or there with a sneaky hill. This is not the case for the GC half, it’s completely flat. Everyone is different, but I enjoy the flat nature of this course. The turnaround being further than half way is a nice bonus too! Once you pass it, you are on your way to…
The finish – it’s hard to top running into the MCG or finishing next to the Sydney Opera House, but this event also has a special finish. The last kilometre along the Gold Coast Highway is lined with spectators who are so crammed in it’s hard to get a spot! Turning off the road into the finish chute and running past the grandstand is definitely a unique experience. After you finish, you get to enjoy…
The freebies – finishing the race feels like Christmas! When you cross the finish line, not only is there plenty of fruit, water and sports drinks available, you get a finishers medal and a t-shirt! Then it’s time to head out to…
The race precinct – one of my favourite parts of this event is relaxing on the event lawn area after the run, enjoying a coffee and watching the marathoners on the big screen. It feels like you have been there for ages, but another benefit of the early start is…
The early finish – having the half marathoners off the course before the marathoners come through means most people in the half are finished before the day is really getting started. There is plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere post race and still get back to your hotel for a shower if you are checking out after the race. If you are staying another night, you have the opportunity to support your fellow runners by…
Cheering on the marathoners – the marathon follows the coast from Southport to Burleigh Waters and back. If you are staying in Broadbeach or Surfers, runners going past your hotel will be past half way and heading towards the 30km mark – right where things start to get tough! A short walk towards the beach gives you a great spot to give out high fives and provide some encouragement. Which all contributes to…
The vibe – not only is the race precinct buzzing with excitement, there is a sense of camaraderie between runners all over the Gold Coast. No matter where you are staying, you are bound to see people wearing their finishers shirt throughout the weekend. Whether you have run 10km or the marathon, this is a great event to be part of.
