Big City Marathon Guide: How To Safely Run Crowded Races

This episode offers five tips for safely and successfully running marathons and other races that – as we all know -- are becoming increasingly crowded. The energy of these larger races is what makes them so much fun, but when you consider their cost and the training you’ve invested in them, it’s best to show up fully prepared to achieve your goals. 

#1. Run Like A Pro

If you’ve watched marathons or any other races, you’ll notice the pros keep their cool – and you should too. They may get tripped, drop their hydration bottle, but no matter what happens they keep going.

#2. Pass Carefully and Decisively

Corral crashing is a hotly debated topic nowadays because it's happening more frequently at the larger races. Slower runners are submitting fake qualifying to gain access to the earlier waves, a practice that creates chaos for the majority of runners who then have to pass them. Race organizers need to start addressing this, but until they do, we’ll all have to keep our cool.

When you pass, choose your openings carefully and pass decisively to avoid unnecessary confrontations. If you must cross into someone’s path, wait until you have two strides on the runner you are passing. If someone does begin to cut you off, signal your presence with a light touch on their shoulder. 

#3. Look Ahead For Turns and Stops

Most automobile accidents happen at intersections, and the same is true with running. Look ahead during your race for upcoming turns and hydration stops to position yourself for them in advance. As we discussed in Episode 15, this practice, known as running the tangents, will efficiently connect the dots to those turns and save valuable time. 

#4. Use Pace Groups If They Work

Many groups can be paced unevenly. So, use them for what you can get out of them. Most will be steady in the early miles, and that may be enough to get you off to a good start.

Running with larger pace groups can be challenging because the group tries to pass as a single unit, and that’s just not possible with other runners on the course. So, expect a fair amount of stutter stepping to avoid runners as the pack repositions itself from time to time.

#5. Watch Out for Spectators

One of the hazards of running marathons is spectators unexpectedly crossing the streets. I’ve managed to avoid several near collisions by using a simple technique. 

If you see someone who is trying to cross, get their attention by raising your hand with an open palm to signal them to stop. It works beautifully. Like everything else we discussed in this episode, it’s one way to take control of your safety and the outcome of your race.

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