Getty ImagesIf you’re one of the 50,000 runners gearing up to pound the streets of Newcastle on September 20 then this page is just for you! From the perfect two-week taper to nipping race-morning nerves in the bud, trouble-free transport

Enjoy running? Like overseas travel? Like the company of other runners? Think you might be able to tolerate the company of RW staff members on their best behaviour for a few days or more...?Great! Runner's World has been enjoying your company

imagined. If I had to give one piece of advice it would to start slow and not go out too quick. Now all I have to do is remember that for next year."Kerry Petulla, 3:14"That was my first elite start and it was a complete buzz lining-up. What made a

get encouragement and training advice in the build-up to the race, a special vest to run in, support crews along the route, an invite to a post-race party, and an immense sense of satisfaction. Look in the pages of Runner's World magazine in the run up

."Like many runners, Jellybabe discovered that the RW forums were a handy resource for practical advice and motivational pick-me-ups. Then she chanced on a thread about the Ironman."They made it sound so easy. I went on and chatted, and they said it would

will be on hand every day to dispense last-minute advice and tell you all about our free pacing service. You can also learn more about our pacing groups from Runner's World Publisher Steven Seaton, who'll be talking on the adidas stage throughout the week (see

the long swims, rides and runs are behind the team; now they must avoid the temptation to do 'just one more training session' as they taper for the event. As the eve of the race draws near, it’s time for an honest appraisal of all their efforts, (you can

, thinking about the bike and run. Coming into the island was horrible. I got pulled back by my legs, swam over and knocked in the head but surprised myself and stayed calm – it's all part of the mass-start experience! Out on the bike the wind bore right