Coach Tip - Race Day Check list: What to Bring for your Marathon

If your a runner, it'll be hectic getting to the start of your marathon.  Plan ahead and set aside these items the night before to in you bags on you to ensure a smooth start to your race day and to keep you moving all 26.2 miles.

• Race Singlet
• Shorts
• Socks
• A pair for your race
• A dry pair for after the race
• Your pre/post racer shoes
• Your Race shoes
• Long-sleeve T-shirt
• Warm-up Throw away clothes. Preferably clothes you don't mind losing if you have to keep them on untill the last minutes before throwing them away
• Hat
• One with a Brim if it's sunny
• Stocking cap if it's cold
• Sunscreen
• Gloves
• Toilet Paper. (You never know)
• Body Glide
• Water-resistant jacket
• Band Aids or Nip Guards
• Safety Pins
• Your Race Bib
• Hydration system with preferred drink
• Race Energy supplement i.e. Gels, bars, sport beans, etc.
• Timing Chip
• Money and ID
• Camera
• Cell Phone
• Watch or heart-rate monitor 
• Directions to the start
• Gear-check bag
• Sunglasses

If you're a spectator, every marathoner needs a few trusty fans along the course watching them race by and providing words of encouragement. But just the same as a runner needs to come prepared to the race dressed in full gear with a few extra essentials, in case of rain, an emergency of the like, spectators needs to bring their arsenal of gear and equipment too. But before you drag your entire closet across the course on race morning, here are a few ideas for a lighter load packed with the essentials to catch all the action.

• Comfortable Shoes
• Warm Socks
• Long Sleeve Shirt
• Sweat Shirt
• Fleece Jacket or windproof shell
• Gloves
• Hat
• One with a Brim if it's sunny
• Stocking cap if it's cold
• Sunglasses
• Backpack
• Cell phone
• Your runner's bib number
• Pen and paper (to record your runner's split times)
• Course Map
• City Street Map
• Binoculars
• A poster offering encouragement for your runner.
• Energy bars and or drinks. You may need them just as much as your runner. 
• Water bottle and snack food
• Money and car keys
• Noise makers