Wow! What can I say about Brighton marathon?

Absolutely fantastic weekend.

Race was quite expensive to enter but if you registered early enough, it was much cheaper.

There were Marathon, 10k and family mile race options so it suited everybody. The family mile is a great idea as it's always nice to see youngsters getting involved.

I selected the marathon option.

Registration was simple enough. Pre-race emails and the Brighton Marathon weekend app kept runners well informed.

Race packs were collection only and had to be picked up from expo in the days leading up to the event.

In your race pack you got race number, timing chip (to be attacted to trainer), a smart 'participation' tec shirt and a plastic sack for baggage store.

I am not usually keen on receiving rewards before a race but at least it gaurentees you get correct sized shirt, so this is a big plus.

Baggage worked very well. You had to put belongings in bag provided, which was then put onto a lorry.

Bag was a large size, so more than enough room for most people. This was transported to finish line. Collection was very smooth so full marks there.

Race itself started from Preston Park, and finished on the sea front.

Runners set off in waves, depending on predicted finish time.

It worked very well. Toilet queues were long, but they always are at big events.

Course was a bit twisty, with odd hill thrown in but fairly flat overall. It finished on sea front.

Miles 21-ish onwards were pretty tough with an out & back, and long drag to the finish. Overall, it was a good course.

Support from Brighton public is simply magnificent. I can not stress that enough. It's by far the best support I have ever witnessed.

Water stations were plentyful and contained cupped water, high 5 energy drink and gels.

On social media there has been a bit of debate regarding cups water rather than bottles.

I personally think its a great idea to have water in paper cups. It's just better for the enviroment and I hope other events use this method.

Race ended with a long , gruelling run along the front but participants were greated with a crescendo of noise from spectators. It really does lift morale, right when you need it.

Finishers were rewarded with a beautiful, solid medal, bottled water and a few items to eat. There was also a pint of Erdinger 0% alcohol larger - very refreshing after a long run.

Post race 'village' had a variety for food/alcohol outlets, as well as massage option and stalls selling running gear. Perfect place to meet family & friends. 

There were also the charity tents so it was nice to meet and socialise with friends from my charity of choice - MNDA.

In summary- Brighton Marathon weekend is a massive event but it's a very well organised, slick opperation.

Everything ran smoothy from start to finish.

Marshals were superb.

I have to mention the Brighton public. Their support was incredible and unrelenting, apart from a section around 20 mile mark where there were no spectators.

Course is pretty fast, with only the odd hill to run up.

Race is quite expensive to enter but what you get for your money is a brilliant event. Book early to save cash.

Hotels are also expensive but staying just outside the area, and travelling in on the day is a cheaper option.

I would certainly recommend it.

Thank you Brighton for a fantastic weekend.