What?
Lying in marathon racing’s ‘Big Six’, Berlin’s 26.2-mile race is considered one of the biggest long-distance events on the planet. It is also seen as an accurate portrayal of the development of the sport; the first race was held in 1974 in which 286 athletes took part. During last year’s race that number was 56,918.
When?
Sunday 28 September, 2014.
Where?
The course starts and finishes at Straße des 17. Juni, near Brandenburg Gate. Before 1990 due to the divisive nature of the city, the marathon was limited to the area of West Berlin. Now the race is allowed to pass through both sides of the city.
Why?
Due to the flat nature of the course, there have been four world record times in the past seven Berlin Marathons. The legendary Ethiopian Haile Gebrselassie twice broke the world record here, in 2007 and 2008. The course itself goes through 10 of the German city’s neighbourhoods and passes historic landmarks such as Berlin Cathedral and the State Opera House.
How much?
Race entry: £78 per person. London Gatwick to Berlin Schoenefeld return journey: £108 (easyJet). Two nights in a hotel: £73. After race Warsteiner: £1.80. Total cost: £160.80
How tough?
The course is very flat, lending itself to fast times. Kenya’s Wilson Kipsang recorded the world record here last year with a staggering time of 2:03:23. At this time of the year, the temperature in Berlin normally stays around 15 to 18 degrees, which is an optimum for runners.
What’s the record?
2:03:23 – Wilson Kipsang (Kenya)
How do I enter?
Unfortunately the limit has been reached for participants for this year, but you can register for the 2015 Berlin Marathon from 18 October 2014 by signing up for their specific newsletter that will keep you up to date.
