Not running? Doesn’t mean you can’t have a starring role on race day. Whether you’re cheering on your partner, mate, family member or work colleague, a good spectator can make a seriously big difference.
From finding the best spots to packing the right snacks, here’s how to nail race day from the other side of the barriers.
Before race day, find out everything you need to know about your runner’s plans.
What’s their race number? What are they wearing? What time are they expecting to finish? Where are you meeting afterwards?
It’s also worth agreeing on a couple of places to meet along the route. You don’t want to spend half the race wandering around trying to find each other.
You could stand in one spot for the whole race, but where’s the fun in that?
Pick a few points along the route so you can catch your runner more than once. Look for spots that are easy to get to and, if possible, avoid trying to cross the route when thousands of runners are coming through.
And remember: getting to the finish line can be trickier than it looks. Give yourself plenty of time.
A little preparation goes a long way. Your race day essentials should include:
☐ Fully charged phone
☐ Portable charger
☐ Water and snacks
☐ Comfy shoes
☐ Weather-appropriate layers
☐ Your runner’s post-race treat
☐ A homemade sign
☐ Something noisy enough to make yourself heard
Basically, pack like you’re going to spend several hours outside. Because you probably are.
Seeing a familiar face in the crowd can give a runner a huge boost, especially when the legs are getting tired.
Shout their name, give them a big smile and make it obvious you’re there. A simple “YOU’RE LOOKING STRONG!” can go a long way.
Just maybe avoid telling someone they’re “nearly there” when they’ve still got eight miles to run…
A giant sign with their name on it is great, but you can get a bit more creative. Think meme, inside joke, embarrassing photo, questionable motivational quote or anything else that’ll make them laugh when they spot you.
You could even make a homemade “power boost” station for the whole race. Hold up a massive sign telling runners to tap it as they pass, whether that’s a high five, fist bump or a quick hit of imaginary energy. Just make sure you’re not getting in anyone’s way.
A few of our favourites:
You’ve made it this far. Don’t blow it at the final hurdle.
Agree on a meeting point before the race, as finish areas can get seriously busy. Keep your phone charged, keep an eye on messages and remember that your runner might take a little while to make it through the finish area.
And have that post-race snack ready. You’ve been told.
Don’t underestimate the power of a good spectator. For runners, seeing a familiar face in the crowd can mean more than you might think. When the legs are tired and the finish line still feels a long way off, spotting someone cheering your name can give you that little lift you need to keep going.
And if they’re running for charity, you’re cheering for more than just a finish time. They’ve put in the miles to raise money and awareness for a cause they care about, so being there to support them can make the day even more special.
So find your spot, make some noise and get ready to cheer like you mean it. You might only be standing on the sidelines, but you’re a big part of their race day.