Final tips for Berlin race week

If you are heading to this weekend's BMW BERLIN-MARATHON, you might be interested in some tips from a former Berlin race captain Paul Addicott!

Paul is a Six-star finisher and a serial pacer for runners looking to achieve a sub-four-hour time in the marathon. He has paced the TCS London Marathons many times, as well as BMW BERLIN-MARATHONs and the Bank of America Chicago Marathon .

Here are Paul's five top tips for running Berlin - whatever stop this is on your Six Star Journey:

1. Berlin is a very busy event, and on race morning it can be hard to navigate to the start line. Make sure you get to the race village early, and head over to the start line early. If you leave it too late you will find it very difficult to get to your desired pen.
2. Don't stop at the first toilet queue on the way to the start, there are lots of toilets spread throughout the whole village so keep moving and you will find yourself a shorter queue.
3. Prepare for the course. It is largely flat, fast and a wide road. You will be able to run with ease throughout the marathon, but it will be busy from start to finish. At the aid stations water is given out in cups, and it can get very crowded at these stations like it can do at most marathons with large field sizes. Don't let this put you off stopping for water - make sure you stay hydrated.
4. The key to a successful race is to run at a steady pace. Don't get carried away at the start ‚ it's easy to do in Berlin if you are inspired by the feats of Eliud Kipchoge on this course! And look out for the official pacers who are there to help guide you to your target times. Check out my blog here for all the pacing advice you need!
5. Take it all in! The BMW BERLIN-MARATHON has some fantastic sights for you to enjoy on the way round. It's a wonderful marathon. Enjoy the atmosphere and have fun. Remember, if you are smiling, the running comes easier.