Choosing the right marathon course for a sub-3 attempt

You’ve decided it’s time. After months – maybe years – of disciplined training, you’re ready to go all in for a sub-3 marathon. But which course will give you the best shot?

There are hundreds of marathons around the world every year. From huge international majors to small local events, the choice can be overwhelming. But not all courses are created equal – and when you’re chasing 2:59:xx (or beyond), the wrong setting can cost you the goal.

Here are 10 things to weigh up before you hit ‘enter’:

1. Travel takes its toll
There’s obvious appeal in running fast at Berlin, Valencia or Chicago. They’re flat and famous for a reason. But travel can disrupt sleep, nutrition and routine – and dealing with airports, transfers and language barriers the day before the biggest race of your life isn’t ideal. If you thrive on familiarity, a race closer to home may serve you better.

2. Hills aren't always bad
Flat isn’t always fast. Gently undulating courses can offer rhythm and variety – and downhill segments can offset the climbs. Just be cautious of steep descents that trash the quads. A pan-flat course sounds appealing, but it can also be monotonous and mentally draining.

3. Congestion can ruin pacing
Major marathons are becoming more like festivals than races. Even in Good For Age or club pens, it’s hard to settle into your own pace early on. Weaving burns energy and adds distance – at London I’ve averaged 42.7km, whereas at smaller races like Yorkshire I’ve hit exactly 42.2km. If you’re right on the sub-3 threshold, that difference matters.

4. Strength in numbers
That said, smaller races can feel sparse – especially if you’re at the sharper end of the field. If you draw motivation from those around you, make sure there will be enough other runners targeting sub-3 pace. Past results are a great guide. The best scenario? A mid-sized race with a solid group aiming for the same goal.

5. The weather wildcard
You can’t control the forecast – but you can stack the odds. Some marathons are known for consistently cool conditions (Seville, Manchester) while others have seen surprise heatwaves (Chester in the 20s, Valencia in December, the shocking 25-degree heat in Berlin in 2025!) Google historical temperature ranges and humidity levels for your race location. You may not get perfect conditions, but you can avoid obvious risks.

6. Logistical ease
Early starts, tricky transport and expensive accommodation can sap energy before you’ve even toed the line. Check whether the start and finish are close together. Look at how easy it is to get to the race village. And don’t overlook hotel prices – they often spike on marathon weekend.

7. Number pickup and expo faff
Many marathons no longer post bibs, and same-day collection is rare. That means arriving a day or two early – which adds cost and time. And expos can be crowded, draining and stressful, and sometimes quite a way from the city centre. If your schedule is tight, consider smaller races with simpler logistics or postal number options.

8. Is the course official?
Your sub-3 needs to count. That means chip timing, UKA or AIMS certification, and verified distance. Most reputable marathons tick these boxes, but it’s worth checking. In 2021, one major UK race turned out to be 568 metres long. Heartbreaking for anyone on a PB attempt. Stick to events with a good reputation and a long track record.

9. Surface and terrain
Not all road races feel the same. Some have long stretches of gravel or rough pavement. Others throw in cobbles, tight corners or sharp cambers. Over 42km, small things become big factors. If possible, check out the course map, elevation profile and surface type. Smooth tarmac beats trail-adjacent park paths every time when seconds count.

10. Nutrition and support
Make sure the aid stations are frequent enough and stock what you’ve trained with – especially if you’re not carrying all your own gels. Crowds also matter more than you think. A few quiet kilometres can feel like forever at mile 23. If you’re someone who feeds off atmosphere, choose a course where the support never lets up.

Final word
The perfect course doesn’t exist – but the right course for you does. Think beyond just flatness and prestige. Consider where you’ll sleep well, start calmly and run freely. Sub-3 is hard enough. Choose a race that sets you up to succeed.