Málaga

Racing it

1. 01

   Even Splits Course

   The marathon loop carries just 40 m of total climbing, so there's no hill to excuse a slow patch. Settle onto goal pace early and hold it the whole way.

   From the elevation profile

2. 02

   Cool Early Start

   You start at 08:30 with typical race-day temperatures around 14C. Heat won't force you to back off, so plan to race this one rather than just finish it.

   From the start time, temperature

3. 03

   One Busy Loop

   Both the marathon and half marathon run the same flat loop, so the opening kilometers are busy. Let the crowd hold you back before you hit your own pace.

   From the layout

4. 04

   Learn the Loop

   Because the route loops back on itself along the port, the Paseo Marítimo and the old town, pick landmarks on the way out and use them to check pace on the return.

   From the layout

5. 05

   Go for the Time

   The race is pitched as a fast, late-season personal best: flat route, mild December weather. Choose a realistic target before the start and commit to it.

   From the description

In Málaga

• Getting Around

  The center and port are compact and walkable, and Málaga's metro and suburban trains reach most of the city. Port and Paseo Marítimo roads close on race day, so going on foot is often quickest.

• Where to Watch

  Spectators get the best value along the port and Paseo Marítimo, where runners pass repeatedly on the loop, and in the old town near the cathedral and the Alcazaba.

• After the Finish

  Málaga's mild winter makes it easy to walk off the race along the port or the beach at La Malagueta, then ease into the city's tapas culture in the center.