TIPS FOR BIG RACES

Huge marathons like those in Toronto, Montreal or Ottawa can create logistical challenges, especially if you have family and friends spectating. Even if you’re a veteran racer, remember that your non-runner BFF may not have a clue about race day. Here are a few simple ways to make the day smoother, from racers who know what it’s like to stumble around incoherently post-race, looking for their supporters.

Read the tech guide, so you know the rules for friends and family around the start and finish lines, and make a mini tech guide for your fan club.

Arrive early. If you’re driving to the start, know your parking options and how long it will take you to walk to the start line, since big races rarely allow parking right near the course. If using public transport, plan days before and check local schedules.

Survey the scene the day before with your crew. That way, all of you know where the best place to park/cheer/etc. is, and they know where to go the next morning.

Bringing your phone? Share your location ahead of time.

Designate a meeting point at the finish, away from the crowds. If they can find you before then, great, but have a spot that won’t be crowded (like a café a few blocks from the finish) where you can eventually meet up.

Believe mile markers, not your GPS watch. Tall buildings and tight city streets may mess with your GPS, so don’t rely on it for pacing in cities (and definitely don’t complain that the course was long).

Take your crew out for dinner afterward (and if needed, be sure to apologize for snapping at them due to pre-race stress!).