My 4th year at MK Marathon weekend and I keep coming back because I love it.
This event seems to be getting better every year.
Registration was easy. Runners received regular updates via email, social media and the MK Marathon app.
Race numbers were posted. There was an mini expo which I didn't have time to attend.
Baggage was quick, easy and toilets were plentiful. Top marks for that.
MK Marathon festival started on the Sunday with the 5k Rocket. Didn't do this race but have been told it's a very fast course- the perfect way to start the weekend.
Main races took place the following day and had distances to suit all abilities.
There was Marathon, half marathon and relay options (10.5k x4).
There was also the 'superhero' run with kids and parents running together. Lovely to see families having fun.
I entered the marathon.
Starting pens were better organised this year. All runners set off from outside the football stadium together, with half marathon runners going their separate ways after about 5 miles.
Course had a couple of early out and backs, before going through beautiful scenery, lakes and woodland. Away from the city centre, Milton Keynes is quite stunning.
The course had a couple of 'bumps' to run up but also had fast downhill sections.
Some of the paths were a little bit bumpy but overall, it's quite a fast course if you tackle it right.
Aid stations were regular with bottled water, energy drink and gels on offer.
Crowd support was brilliant overall. Marshals were awesome.
The race finished inside the magnificent Stadium MK for all distances - great setting for a finish line and the perfect place for families and friends to welcome home the runners.
Finishers received a beautiful cow themed medal, goodie bag and quite possibly the best finishers shirt I've ever had.
Post race there was a music festival, rides, activities for kids and food outlets.
Perfect for all the family.
In summary:
Brilliant event from start to finish. Perfect for runners, spectators and families. It goes from strength to strength, year after year and is a great advert for Milton Keynes.
It's a race I would certainly recommend.
Thanks to marshals and Milton Keynes public for your support.
See you in 2020.