When I was deciding on which Spring marathon to do in 2018, the main criteria for me was to go somewhere different and not choose a hugely popular marathon like Paris. I had never been to Italy before and after reading a few blogs my decision was made. I registered for the Rome marathon in July 2017.

The registration was a simple online process via the website. The fees are from €55 to €90 depending on when you register. If you are not registered with an IAAF registered club (eg. England Athletics), then you would also need to buy a Runcard for €12 and obtain a medical certificate before your registration is finalised. 

I arrived in Rome on the Thursday before race weekend and headed to the expo from the airport. The expo had just opened and was not busy that day. I would imagine that it would have been busier on Friday and Saturday. Bib collection was a breeze - all that was required was my confirmation letter and ID. The expo itself was the standard marathon expo with the official sportswear sponsor, New Balance, selling their products and a very limited amount of Rome marathon branded clothing. After passing the other stands you go to the final booth to collect your free technical t-shirt and backpack. The official backpack is the only backpack which will be accepted at the baggage check in the start area. I didn't need to use the baggage check though, as my hotel was two minutes away from the start area. 

The race organisation was excellent as you would expect from an IAAF label race. The start was in waves with three offical timers for each wave. The course is an out and back course starting in front of the Colosseum, going through residential areas on both sides of the river, along the river and back through the main shopping area before getting back to the Colosseum. The route is a little undulating and parts of it are on cobbled streets but this did not bother me in the slightest. The roads were all wide enough and were not crowded. The refreshment stations were well stocked with water, Powerade, oranges, salts and energy bars. The support and atmosphere along the course was outstanding with bands, music, residents and tourists supporting and cheering runners. The marshals and volunteers did an excellent job of directing people as necessary and there were enough medical staff along the course assisting runners. After crossing the finish line we received our medal, foil blanket and water and another bag with more water, Powerade and an apple. 

In 2018 we were unlucky with the weather. It was extremely hot and many of us were struggling during the second half, taking many walk breaks. It was not a day for pbs. However, it was an incredible experience to run in Rome and I would definitely do it again. It is a fantastic alternative to the cliche of Paris marathon and I believe that everyone should give Rome marathon a go for the experience.