Longford

Racing it

1. 01

   Know Your Distance

   Longford runs a marathon and a half marathon on the same day, so confirm your entry and line up for the right distance rather than following the wrong field.

   From the description

2. 02

   Race the 15C Window

   Typical race-day temperature is around 15C, close to ideal for distance running. Start in light kit instead of overdressing and you can hold your pace.

   From the temperature

3. 03

   Peak Through August

   The race falls on August 29, so summer is your build: put the longest runs in the warm weeks and ease down in the final days before the start.

   From the description

4. 04

   One Day, Two Fields

   With both distances on the same date, the town and finish area will be busy. Sort your warm-up, kit plans and where you'll meet people before the gun.

   From the description

In Longford

• Getting Around Town

  Longford is a compact midlands town, so most race-day movement is on foot rather than by car. Rail and bus links from Dublin make it easy to arrive without driving.

• Where to Watch

  The town center streets give spectators the simplest views of the race. Longford is small enough to walk between a couple of vantage points while the field passes.

• After the Finish

  Recover with a flat walk along the Royal Canal Greenway or the Camlin riverbank. The town center and St Mel's Cathedral are an easy wander afterward.