I was looking to experience a new city and figured running in Barcelona would be a cool way to see Spain for the first time.

Pre-Race (1) Registration, expo and stuff:

Registration and information were easy and good. Only thing is that it took a long time before information started coming in via email about the race. So there was a period where I wondered if everything was ok, if all the info was received by the organizers, etc. But I suppose it was ok.

The expo was ok. The space itself was kind of crappy-looking, I thought. Not very inspiring, but a lot of expos aren't particularly great looking. The pasta "party" really didn't benefit from the location, as eating in a warehouse isn't particularly inspiring. In Berlin it looked much better, and in Stockholm it was outdoors during amazing weather. So I guess I'll give the Barcelona expo a weak 3... or something....

Public transport was a breeze. No problems there. Goody bag contained useful items, including the runner's shirt. I thought the shirt in general was ok, but a bit too much advertising on it for my taste.

I did do the pre-marathon 5K run the day before, which was fun, but unexpectedly "difficult." It started by the expo and museum, and then simply climbed up to the Olympic stadium. Long climb. But it was a fun little run to get you in the mood and meet some people. Also a beautiful view on the way up and down. Recommended.

One thing to watch out for though: The air quality! Not only do people smoke everywhere, but I just felt that the air got progressively worse as the day progressed. So running in the evening after a full day of warm air and car emissions didn't feel all that great. And obviously going to bars and restaurants before wasn't that great for the "pipes" either because of all the smoking. And while I'm at it; comparing the city to some others, I really felt that it was a bit hard to find good, healthy food. In New York or Stockholm (etc.), you have more options that are easier to find, in my opinion.

Pre-Race (2), bag-drop, etc.:

The bag drop was well organized. I managed to screw up and got to the start with just a few minutes to spare, but getting into the corral wasn't a problem.

Start and race:

The start went off without any problems. I didn't experience any particular amount of congestion. During the race there were a couple of spots where it got a bit crowded, but I've had worse.

I followed (or actually ran in front of) pacers, and they seemed pretty much on point. The course had some music, but I found the audience to be a bit lacking, especially at the beginning of the run. The course itself was good. You pass some really nice architecture and there are a couple of longer climbs that aren't brutal.

The weather was great for this run. It was cool and there was a very nice, really light rain at times. Kept the temperature down.

I finished at 3:57 on this one after having followed the pace-setters for most of the race and leaving them behind towards the end (I hope they met their time!), so I think they did a decent job.

Finish and post-race:

Not much to say really. They had oranges and stuff at the end, which was great.

Conclusion:

This is a nice race that I think I recommend. I think it's flat enough for personal records, although there are flatter courses (Berlin, for example). All in all, a pretty good experience.

This was my 8th marathon and one that I'd always fancied doing. I'd never been to Barcelona before so the overall experience was pretty special. I was surprised by the sizable and enthusiastic crowds following most sections of the race; at points, they really helped. The course itself was relatively flat and covered an even surface, which was conducive to running a good time. The organization was excellent too, from the expo (which included a free pasta lunch for entrants, a nice touch), to the race day organization (which was controlled, efficient and friendly). The breakfast run the morning before the race was a really nice addition, particularly as it finished in the Olympic Stadium. I would highly recommend giving this a go.

If you are considering a beautiful location for your first marathon or are looking to improve on your PB, I would suggest Barca as a good choice for either.

Well I decided to do Barcelona after picking up a flier for it at Amsterdam Expo '08. It ticked all of the boxes for me at that time, and from reading the reviews on this site, I decided to give it a go.

Well, from the off, the expo was in a great location, right in the middle of town (same with the start and finish point). Plenty of public transport, so there were no problems finding it. The expo itself was well laid out, with good organization and plenty of room. Also, it doubled as the site for the bag drop on marathon morning, so that helped those not familiar with the layout (including myself) to get their bearings. Also on the morning of the marathon, it was nice to get ready in the big hall, under a roof.

One hint, give yourself plenty of time to get to the start line. There was only one door in and out of the hall, which got a bit congested about 10-15 minutes before the start.

The course itself, again, was good. It took the usual 3-4K at the start before the field spread out. I did most of this running on the footpath. But no problems after that. Water stops were spot on and plentiful. They provided 250 mL screw-top bottles, and again, the energy drinks were plentiful. Wet sponges and fruit were given out 4-5 times along the course.

The course itself was wide and overall flat with little in the way of hills. I managed a PB myself, so I'm happy. Also, the majority of the course is in the city and takes you on a good tour, seeing most of the sites.

Support from the crowd was good and enthusiastic.
At the end, great location in front of the fountains. But they only handed out a bottle of water or energy drink, so take something to eat in your bag. Nice medal at the end and good quality running shirt in your race bag.

The only complaint - and I am really nit-picking - is there was no cable ties given out with the champion chip, so I had my laces through it. But cable ties were then handed out when handing in your bag just before the start, so you had to take shoe off and start undoing laces, fiddling with chip and cable ties just before going to the start line when all prep should have been done.

But all in all, it's a great marathon and I'd do it again - no hesitation.

This is a flat fast course and has "PR" written all over it. The course itself was entertaining, snaking through or past all of the city's stunning landmarks.

Coming from California, the weather was just like home... the food in Barcelona, the sightseeing and the people made this a trip worth taking.

Spent a week visiting and taking in the sights, and there is so much to see: Gaudi's work is everywhere, and the Sagrada Familia was a trip.

In Barcelona the cuisine is excellent, and mass transportation is quick, flexible, accessible and clean.

Back to the race: the start was a little congested, with many of us forced up on to the sidewalks to fight for valuable footing at the corners, but the race clears out at about 3 miles.

Fabulous race and community. Destination racers, this is a "must do" race.

Flat course, very-well organized, and it was easy to get to the expo/start area via the metro. Nice finisher's medal and dry-fit running shirt.

All said, a stellar event. I ran Madrid last year, which had a difficult-to-find expo and relatively uneventful course.

This was my first marathon, and after arriving in Barcelona with a mild Achilles injury, I was scared to say the least. However, as part of Team Diabetes (Canada), I found resolve in my teammates and this made me confident and positive. The race itself was very well organized (apart from lack of toilets on the route) and the local support was very warm and refreshing, especially at the 30 KM point when I felt a bit tired. Definitely one I will do again soon.

I chose Barcelona for my first marathon (at age 50) because it's my favorite city and I knew the course would provide ever-changing scenery. Nothing like cresting at mile 20 to have the Mediterranean open up in front of you.

Communication was a little iffy - never did get a confirming email, though my name was on the website as a confirmed runner. But bib pickup was a piece of cake and goody bag was nice. Also: Metro goes right to the start which made things very easy (though no bag drop that I ever found).

Refreshment stations were well-spaced and well-stocked. Lots of locals out to cheer, though would have been nice if they smoked a little bit farther from the course!

We had great weather, but a headwind and small climb at the end were tiring.

I'll do this one again.

What a great marathon - a warm sunny day, and a marathon right through the city center, passing all the major tourist sights. I was impressed by the organization at the expo they must have learned from previous years. The crowd support was good, especially in the later stages. One of the best scenic marathons in Europe.

My 3rd marathon in Europe and it was great! For anyone who wants a PB, Barcelona is a good place to run. Bib pick up was swift. The course was clearly marked and well stocked with bottles of water, sponges, etc. Spectators were supportive and jolly. The Spanish don't speak much English, so brush up on your Catalan before venturing out there. Oh yes, may God be with you on the race.... You'll need Him when you hit the 4K uphill at the end!

I was told to run my first marathon on a great course, in a beautiful city. I made no mistake in picking Barcelona. The course is just spectacular from start to finish!!! Organization was flawless; bib pick up was fast; excellent water and food stations; the race is mostly flat (some small hills that, for me, coming from Costa Rica, were very easy). Crowds were very supportive, though concentrated in some spots. It was worth spending 10 hours in an airplane!!!

Thanks to Barcelona for one of the best experiences of my life!!!!