Getting the final details together to be as prepared for Boston on Monday as possible. I'm doing this on my own and don't know anyone that has done the race previously so I'm coming to here to ask all my final questions. I'd really appreciate any and all help I can get. Overwhelmed by my first big race, and being on my own for it.
Course/Racing:
Is there anything special/significant to know about racing this course? Any miles to plan for, to move on, to relax on, etc?
The course looks much faster the first half than the second, is it beneficial to run more even splits or positive split vs. negative split? Just trying to get any cues on how to race the course?
Looking to run sub 2:30, will be there a good group to run with or is it going to be everyone running their own race/fending for themselves? My only marathon was Marine Corp where I ran in a group of 10-15 people at sub 6 pace, and we all worked together to stay on pace. We also had Wardian pacing us, but just wondering if I can expect any of the same for sub 2:30 at Boston.
Pre-Race Stuff:
I'm staying at the Sheraton in Needham, MA 02494. What is the best way for me to get to the buses to haul me to the start? Girlfriend is coming, and driving, so a car is an option if that could be a benefit.
What time would I need to leave the hotel in order to either get to the buses to get to the start, or just get to the start in general? It says on the site bus loading for my wave is 6:00-30am. How long do I need to plan in travel in order to be there by that time?
How much/what can I carry to the runner's village? How do I check in/claim my stuff?
Is it going to be a struggle to get positioning in my wave/corral? Again, trying to go sub 2:30. Do I need to get to the start/claim my spot extra early to make sure I'm good?
Where do I warmup? Any options for somewhere to leave my bag as I warmup or just find a bush to put it behind?
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This is all I can think of off the top of my head but I'm sure I have more.
This is one of my first ever big races so I'm a little overwhelmed by all the things going on and number of people. I'm also used to being able to relying on a friend I'm running with to cool the nerves or at least someone to hold my stuff and be there before the race-- so not having that security blanket to take that concern off my shoulders is also making me more anxious to figure out all these small, dumb questions.
Again, know it's a lot of small/dumb questions, I just want to be prepared.
Thanks.