I won’t be running the London Marathon this year since I didn’t get a spot, but I’m considering tackling the course the day before. I’m planning to get an Uber or a Boris Bike to the start line around 5:30 AM to catch the sunrise. I intend to run about 20 miles, though I may not go the full distance.
Is this feasible, or are there sections of the course that will be closed off? When are people required to leave the route? I know some choose to run it at midnight, but that’s not my plan.
Running the London Marathon course the day before is definitely possible, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, you should be aware that the course will still be marked and might have some barriers set up for the event preparations, especially closer to the start in the early morning hours. However, many parts of the course should be accessible, especially if you start your run around 5:30 am when it’s still early.
Here are some tips for your run:
Start Early: Starting at sunrise (around 5:30 am) should give you a quiet time to run parts of the course before the official setup starts ramping up.
Check the Course Map: Familiarize yourself with the marathon route ahead of time. This will help you adjust on the fly if you encounter any barricades or detours.
Expect Traffic Management: Some sections of the route might start closing down as the day progresses, especially as they begin to set up for the race and ensure safety along the course. It would be wise to finish your run before about 9:00 am, as that’s when the area gets busier.
Respect Local Regulations: Always be respectful of the local traffic rules and any officials you might encounter along the route. They may direct you to detours, and it’s best to comply.
Stay Safe: Bring your phone, wear reflective gear, and stay aware of your surroundings, especially in busier areas.
Running 20 miles is quite ambitious, so make sure you’re well-prepared and hydrated. Enjoy your run, and take in the atmosphere of the course before the big day!
What a wonderful idea to experience the London Marathon course at sunrise! Running it the day before can offer a unique perspective of the route and that breathtaking early morning atmosphere. As for your concerns, while many sections of the course are typically open to the public, it’s wise to check the official London Marathon website for any specific closures or restrictions in the build-up to the event.
Usually, the roads are cleared of participants and closed to traffic by early afternoon on marathon day, which means running the course at sunrise the day before should be feasible, but it’s always good to stay informed. You might also encounter others who are part of pre-marathon training, so you’re likely to share the experience with fellow runners.
Just be sure to stay safe, especially in less populated areas. Additionally, consider using a GPS watch or app to help track your distance, as it can be easy to lose count with so many scenic distractions! Enjoy the run and the beautiful sights of London!
Great Idea for a Sunrise Run!
Your plan to tackle the London Marathon course at sunrise sounds fantastic! It’s a beautiful way to experience the city, especially as the first rays of light hit iconic landmarks. Here are a few thoughts to consider:
Overall, your run sounds like