My Robin Hood Marathon Experience: The Highs, the Lows, and the Loos

My Robin Hood Marathon Experience: The Highs, the Lows, and the Loos

This past weekend I took part in the Robin Hood Marathon here in Nottingham, and what a day it was. I have been desperate to run a sub 1 hour 30 minute half marathon and, after some good months of training, I went in with high hopes – I even purchased the VIP package. I left the event with plenty to say.

The Crowds Make It

First things first: the crowd. Honestly, they are what makes this event so special. You can train for weeks, months even, but nothing prepares you for the wall of encouragement you get as you run through Nottingham. I cannot imagine running an event without those crowds. They make you feel loved and supported every step of the way. The signs were hilarious and creative, and the cheers just didn’t stop – they keep you going and keep you pushing.

Certain spots stand out even more: running up to the castle into the park was a magical experience, and Wollaton Park was another highlight – the atmosphere there carried you forward when your legs were starting to question life choices. By the time you reach mile 11, the support is absolutely crucial, and sure enough, the people lining the route gave a much-needed boost. I just loved that people took time out of their weekend to come and support runners. It is so, so, so appreciated.

The Tram Situation

Now, let’s talk about the morning tram ride. Or rather, the tram squeeze. I saw a sign while I was running that said: “You are running better than the tram” – they were right. It was chaos.

Families with pushchairs couldn’t even get on because the trams were so crammed. For such a huge event that brings in thousands of runners, supporters, and tourists – not to mention the massive economic benefit to the city – it’s ridiculous that there isn’t more flexibility in the scheduling and more trams aren’t put on. Can we really not add a couple of extra trams in the morning to make things work a bit better?

Nottingham prides itself on its green credentials, and the tram is a great eco-friendly way to travel, but if people can’t actually get on them, then what’s the point? More trams would have made such a difference. I feel so sorry for those people left at tram stops trying to get to the race who simply couldn’t get on. Whoever at Nottingham City Council needs to sort it out should do so, and the Robin Hood Marathon should be lobbying them to make it happen.

The VIP Package (Or Lack Of)

Now, onto my little splurge: the VIP package. I’ll be honest, I only bought it for one reason – easier access to toilets. And guess what? The “VIP loos” turned out to be four portable toilets. That was it. No special facilities, no comfort, no justification for the extra money. Just four portaloos.

I spoke to a few others in the VIP area, and we were all in the same boat – we’d all shelled out for the promise of better toilet access, and all felt let down. It’s not what you expect when you see “VIP package” advertised. Frankly, it was pretty rubbish – or should I say poo. I ended up queueing over 15 minutes for the toilet prior to the race, which is not what I wanted.

Am I going to buy the VIP package again next year? Yes – but only because I’m going to pester them to put more toilets on. If they don’t, I won’t buy it again.

To be fair, the VIP package does have some other benefits. You get access to hot drinks and massages, and the position of the VIP area alongside the race course means you get a great view to cheer your friends on as they enter the last 200-ish metres of the race. I liked that.

Bag Drop

Credit where it’s due: the bag drop system was slick. It can be one of the most stressful parts of a race day – juggling your kit, trying to find your number, worrying if your bag will still be there when you finish. But at the Robin Hood Marathon it was all very straightforward and well organised. Dropping off was quick, staff were helpful, and collection at the end was painless. It’s a small detail, but when so many other events get it wrong, it deserves recognition.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Robin Hood Marathon is an incredible event, and the crowds alone make it worth running. I crossed the finish line with a smile, and that’s thanks to the people of Nottingham. Looking forward to next year.