I have run this marathon in 2018 and 2019 and I've got a place in the 2020 event which will be the 40th anniversary (like VLM). I ran VLM in 2018 and found it over-hyped, over-crowded and lacking in entertainment - just miles of spectators.
Valencia is something else! Flights are cheap, we are lucky enough to know someone with an apartment 15 mins walk from the start and the city is beautiful.
The City of Arts and Sciences is the Expo, Paella Party and Start and Finish area - it's stunning. The 300m blue pontoon which is built over the water especially for the run to the finish is really special.
The Expo is good, some great photo opportunities. There is a pre-event goody bag rammed with stuff and great bling with a post-event goody bag which includes a net of Valencian oranges.
The race pens and toilets were much improved last year and the Expo was made bigger and more streamlined. This year's event is marathon only with no 10k. The number has increased to 30000 and they are hoping to be upgraded to Platinum IAAF. It's an amazing event!
The race starts at 8.30am - perfect as it's still dark and cool, plus you get your afternoon back. The temperature is not too hot and there's no humidity.
The course is flat with so much entertainment - you'll never see so many drumming bands, DJs and fancy dress cheer stations at any other marathon. The Spanish are brilliant support, they will shout so much encouragement.
Can't wait to go back!