Wellington Marathon - Race Reviews

This is my 4th Gazley Marathon and I have really enjoyed it very much. Everyone, the runners' fellowship and just fun being out there. Its good to feel like you being part of this event and something special to belong to. I run for the Vietnam veterans, my friends and family and am proud to take part each year.

Ran this marathon in 2012 and really loved it; the course doubles back on itself but a beautiful view of the ocean makes it worth it. The wind was mercifully tame for much of the run - I can imagine it being very challenging in adverse conditions. Certainly worth a look - Wellington is also a fantastic spot to spend a few days.

In a nutshell, its a no-frills community race. Pre-post race events/food was almost non-existent. No gu or food on course. However, some of the best volunteer and course-support I've ever seen in a race. Course is flat and has sweeping views of the bay. Wellington lived up to its reputation for providing punishing conditions...including wind...during the race. Take your race preparations seriously!

There's a couple of things that you must consider before signing up for this maratón. First, the weather could be bad, very bad; second, the race is entirely on one road, the only sight you may see is the bay, that is great, but after two hours is a little bit boring The course is mostly flat, but the wind could be strong, Wellington is the most windy city of the world. Since the course is there and back, you can expect a strong face wind for almost 20 km. There's no espectators (literary none) in 40 of the 42 km. On the other hand, the organization is great, and I've enjoyed a lot running it. A small, endearing and beautilfull race, that I'm proud to have finished it in third place... in the middle of my honeymoon! Unfortunately, is no likely that I can run it again, I live 20.000 km away from there :(

The thought of doing a marathon on the other side of the world really appealed to me and when I crossed the finishing line in 3hrs 52mins I was more than happy. The conditions were ok(what do you expect for early winter)to be honest it was ideal for someone from Scotland!!!. I improved on my time from the Paris Marathon the year before of more than 79mins I hope to return to NZ in the near future and if it coincides with the Wellington Marathon I will be there with the rest of the hardy souls at just after 7 on the sunday morning. All the best David Brown