Words: Steve Moneghetti

Well, here we are just days out from the Gold Coast Marathon race weekend and thousands of readers are about to achieve their goal of making it to the start line.

Well done. It’s an achievement in itself.

Enjoy the atmosphere on the start line and during the event as it is a truly life affirming experience.

And to make sure your final preparations are as enjoyable and trouble-free as possible, I’d like to share the following last-minute tips with you:

Make sure you do only light jogging or cross training this week to allow your body to absorb the months of training you’ve done.

Remember to charge your GPS watch fully (you certainly don’t want to lose battery half way through your race).

Don’t forget your numbered bib with the timing chip in it and pin it on to your singlet or t-shirt the night before so you are ready for your very early start.

Always allow extra time as I find the morning closes in on you very quickly.

Go to the toilet before you leave home or the hotel as there will invariably be queues at the start area.

Men, be sure to tape or band aid your nipples to avoid chafing.

Familiarise yourself with the start area and the course.

Read the all-important information on race start assembly times and places, course and precinct access and road closures.

Let your friends and family know the good spots to cheer you on as they will provide much needed morale support for you out on the course.

Keep the carbohydrates and fluids up on the days leading in.

Consider taking a day off work on Friday.

I appreciate such advice carries the risk of bringing the country to a grinding halt if everyone does it, but you will appreciate it in the last few kilometres of the race.

And don’t try or do anything different on race day.

You’ve done your preparation, so just enjoy the spoils of your training and every minute of your run.

And for those still considering a run or a walk, entries will remain open until the Friday prior to race weekend.

Good luck everyone!