Edinburgh

Racing it

1. 01

   Plan the point-to-point

   This is a point-to-point race from central Edinburgh to the coast, so decide before race morning how you will reach the 10:00 start and how you will get back from the finish.

   From the layout

2. 02

   Flat, if the wind behaves

   Total climb is only about 90 m, but the coastal stretch past Musselburgh and out to Gosford House is exposed. The wind, not the hills, usually decides the times here.

   From the description, elevation profile

3. 03

   Cool 10:00 start

   Expect roughly 13°C at the 10:00 start. That is cool enough to race hard from the gun, but wear something you can shed for the wait and the breezy coastal miles.

   From the start time, temperature

4. 04

   Ease down the opening

   The course drops out of central Edinburgh downhill to Portobello. Take that opening gently; the flat miles along the coast to Gosford House and back are where the marathon is run.

   From the description

5. 05

   Use the out-and-back

   The out-and-back to Gosford House means you will see the rest of the field coming the other way. Use it to check your position and pace rather than to chase.

   From the description

In Edinburgh

• Getting around on race day

  The race runs from central Edinburgh out to the coast, so buses and trams are the easiest way to move around once race-day road closures hit the center. Build in extra time.

• Where to watch

  Portobello promenade and the Musselburgh waterfront give spectators long, open views of the field, while the city center finish is walkable from most of the Old Town and New Town.

• After the finish

  Edinburgh is compact but hilly. A gentle walk in Holyrood Park or the Meadows loosens post-race legs, and the Old Town streets and castle views are a short stroll from the center.