Before the day
Read the current participant guide, confirm entry, check bib collection requirements, and note any deadlines. Review the start location separately from the finish. Decide how you will get there and how much time the organizer asks you to allow.
Pack to the actual rules
Check the event’s bag policy, required items, on-course support, and restrictions. Carry the personal essentials you need. Do not assume an item or service is allowed because another race provided it.
Make the return journey easy
Agree where to meet supporters without blocking the finish area. Keep a way to contact them and a plan for getting home. Consider what you will need after the outing rather than relying on an unconfirmed expo or finish-line vendor.
For our planned marathon
No date, bib process, start time, aid provision, or bag-drop service is confirmed for the Golden Gate Bridge Marathon. Its eventual participant guide must replace the planning ideas on this site before anyone attends.