Tip 12: The Course

A big part of planning your approach to the Richmond Marathon is becoming familiar with the course so that you’re not caught off guard. It’s not the easiest marathon course ever made, but is is also not one of the most difficult. There are some hills, but at least you’ll have plenty of people cheering you on along the way.

Richmond is a fantasic course. You have a great mix of urban and residential. There are quiet stretches along the river, and there are busy sections near the city. You will run down shaded streets, and you will cross to magnificent bridges looking down on the Jame's River. This course gives it all to you!

I have often said, Richmond is 25.5 miles long. The last .7 miles is a downhill stretch to the finish. Once you make the final turn, you can hear the finish line announcer. The streets get more lined with fans. Your heart beats faster, and your legs find an energy you thought you left back at mile 20. . . once you hit that final hill, you are a ROCK STAR!

There are several ways to become familar with the race course. First and foremost, review the course map, and the course elevation chart. You will use this course map in your head on race day. Another great resource is the photo collection on the Richmond Times Dispatch site that list landmarks for each and every mile. Take a few minutes to click through the photos so you can find some things to look for on race day. Here are some useful links:

• Course Map (PDF)
• Course Elevation (PDF)
• Detailed Course (Very Large)
• Course Photos
• Written Directions (MS Word)

Here are a few observations and tips from my three Richmond Marathons. Most of these are pretty obvious, but I thought I would share. Others feel free to add in.

• Miles 1-2 - Take your time. Rushing just wastes energy. It will thin out.
• Mile 2.5 - Sports Backers will be there to take any clothing you take off.
• Mile 6 - An enormous downhill. Take it easy. Slow yourself down.
• Mile 7 - First Party zone. Take it in, but don't get too excited.
• Mile 7.5 - First bridge. Easy on the up hill. Enjoy the view
• Miles 8-10 - Along the river. Very peaceful. Good spot for an emergency pit stop.
• Mile 10 - Your first real hills. Two hills back to back. Relax. They are not that bad
• Miles 11-15 - Long stretch with traffic. Stay focused. There is the 2nd Party Zone.
• Mile 15 - Best view on the entire course. Enjoy the city coming over the bridge.
• Miles 16-18 - There is a gradual sneaky hill. Don't panic if your legs feel a little tired
• Mile 20 - Very short but steep over pass. If you need a walk break, this is a good time.
• Mile 21 - Back into neighborhoods. Keep your head up. Rely on fans to pull you through.
• Mile 23-24 - Least scenic portion of the course, but you know your are almost home
• Mile 25 - One last hill, before turning towards the finish
• Mile 25.5 - Smile, Wave, Thump your Chest. . . you are minutes away from finishing YOUR marathon!