This was my first time to run Swansea Half Marathon and my first outing as a pacer too, getting the sub 2:15 runners home.

On possibly the hottest days EVER for a race, it was always going to be tough for the participants.

We parked in Parc Tawe, which is near the finish line but a good walk from the start line (nice chance to warm up properly) :-) 

The start line pens were indicated by large flags on the sidelines but after you get in them, I'm not sure if anyone was watching to see if anyone moved up a pen because they were only separated by thin lines of red tape (our pen tape between C & D got pulled down, so we were all in together), not that it bothered me.

The welsh national anthem played before the start gun went off which is always a nice touch.  It wasn't too crowded at the start either so I didn't experience any bottlenecks trying to get out and keep my pace steady. 

it's a lovely flat route out of Swansea on the roads and into mumbles, then turn halfway and run along the seafront (where we were all hoping for some sea breeze but it wasn't to be but the view is beautiful as you can see Devon across the water).  Back over the marina and down to the finish line.

It was scorching and I think I was lucky to be pacing at a much slower pace than I usually run at, as I can't imagine trying to keep to my usual pace in the blazing sun.  There were quite a few casualties dropping but St. John's ambulance were there quickly to tend to them.  Huge thanks to the lady with the hosepipe on mumbles front, showering all the runners & the lady giving out Tip tops (something so small that made the runners so happy!)

Plenty of water stations, stocked well and lots of volunteers handing out water too, so not panicking to find a bottle at the water stations.  There were water stations at miles 3, 6, 9 and 12.  A few water stops with gels too and loads of cheering volunteers and spectators out on the course, which helped immensley in the sun.

Absolutely rammed at the finish line with supporters cheering everyone home and it was easy to get out through the park after crossing the finish line, where volunteers had water waiting, great finishers Tshirts & medals and a full goodie bag too, filled with lots of creams, lip balms, pain relief gel & protein bars (best goodie bag I've had in a while).

They had brought the bag drop trucks to the fniish, so no need to walk all the way back to the start to pick up any bags you had dropped off.

Loads of toilets at the start & finish and around the course (always a bonus).

It's definitely a great flat course and one for a PB (had it not been so hot).  Good value for money too, will be back in 2019 for another go!