I’ve always dreamed of running my first major marathon and running a sub 4 (more a dream rather than a realistic though - Berlin was that place to satisfy both aspirations.

Overall rom start to finish Berlin Marathon is a fantastic race and really well organised, you get the feeling this is a major city marathon.  There’s a number of aspects to race weekend, I’ve tried to split it down below.

Expo and Bib pick up

I arrived in Berlin on Tuesday and headed to the expo after checking into my hotel.  It’s about a 30min walk from the start line of 15/20mins by U-Train.  When I got there it was less than 10minutes to go through and collect my number, wristband and bag of goodies but I believe Friday/Saturday was a lot busier but waiting times still less than 30mins.  As with any expo it is a way for the organisers to get you to spend ££££ with the sponsors and other companies however it had a great buzz around the place and BMW were giving everyone a gift personalised with their name and bib number.  The expo is also where you can buy official merchandise but get in early as daily stock does sell quickly.

Race Day

The race starts at 9:15am, for a relaxed race start it’s recommended you are at the race village for c. 7:30 but if you are in the final wave you have some extra time.  

The course starts off in front of the Brandenburg and heads toward the victory column, the road is wide and perfect running space.  Just after 2KM the road narrows as the route turns left, this was where a few shoes were lost and heels clipped - you may be best to jump onto the pavement so you have some additional space.  The route follows some impressive landmarks but if you heading for a time you won’t neccesarily notice them.  The finish down the Brandenburg-Tor is impressive, well worth enjoying the moment.

The only let down is the water and electrolyte stations as they use cups rather bottles, however they do have fruit stations stocked with apples and bananas.

Post Race

Unfortunately unlike races in the UK you have to buy your race tshirt (remember to pre-order with race entry) however the medal is great quality and one you will definitely cherish for life.  In the event village it’s very easy to find baggage and everything is well signposted.  Even better is that you get a free pint of Erdinger albeit Alkoholfrei but you’ve definitely earned it when you cross the line.

I would recommend everyone to enter Berlin especially if chasing a PB, I went sub 4 which was 26mins off my PB.  

Good luck, go #BeatBerlin42.