TACKLE ROTH

1 Get an entry! The first batch of Roth places sell out in seconds online every year in July, but there are slots up for grabs just before Christmas.

2 Don’t expect an easy day. There have been amazing times set at Roth because it attracts the best athletes, but it’s still a challenging course.

3 Don’t make it all about your time. The race is so much more than that. Embrace the whole experience, do a homestay and see what makes the race, the town and the people so special.

4 Check out the course before race day. Knowing what’s coming helps to mentally prepare you for the tougher parts.

5 Don’t draft! Not only is it against the rules but you’ll incur a five-minute penalty, plus an extra kilometre added to your run – ouch!