Vienna City Marathon Reviews & Race Reports
8 reviews from runners who've completed this race
Reviews & Race Reports
The Out-and-Back in the Prater — Many runners struggled mentally during the out-and-back section through the Prater. It can feel isolating, so be prepared for a mental challenge here.
Pacing Strategy — Multiple reports highlight the importance of consistent pacing early on. Aim to stay relaxed and stick to your plan until at least the 30k mark for the best results.
Final Kilometers — The last 7km can be tough. Cramping and fatigue hit hard for many, so save some energy for this stretch and adjust your expectations if needed.
Gear Choices — Dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures. Many runners felt comfortable after warming up, so consider a base layer and light gloves for the start, especially if it's chilly at the beginning.
Felt comfortable despite freezing weather, loved the course
I was initially worried about the chilly conditions but felt surprisingly comfortable once warmed up. I opted for a base layer, heavier long sleeve shirt, leggings + shorts, and a few extras which only slightly reduced my shaking in the first couple of km (light wind breaker, neck tube, gloves). The course was amazing overall, I found it easier and way more interesting than Manchester which I have completed twice before.
Felt strong and in control through the challenging middle miles
Weather was perfect this time around. about 12C at 09:00, cloudy and rising to around 16C at midday. I started off in Group 2 and we got going about 09:10. I was feeling good, watching my pace really closely and keeping spot on race pace. just trying to relax, look at the crowds and smile as much as possible - knowing this is the easiest bit so might as well enjoy it.
Frustratingly close to sub-3 despite ankle pain
Crossed in 3:00:13, which is so frustratingly close. I also ran 42,7 km, which means that the actual marathon distance was below 3, but this of course doesn't count.
Struggled with cramps in the final kilometers but finished strong
The last 7km felt absolutely horrible. Everytime I tried to get my pace closer to 5:00, my whole lower body just cramped up. At this point I was super afraid of having to drop out of the race and I felt like I'd have to puke soon multiple times, but thankfully it never got quite to that point. I barely managed to keep my pace under 5:30.
Decided to run the full marathon after initially planning for a half.
At 8k, I knew I had a good day, I had felt worse on my last half marathon. So I called my mom to inform her that I'll be a while, she first assumed she needed to pick me up somewhere, but I told her I was going for the full one and where she should meet me. I knew I couldn't run the first half too slow and think I'd be golden only to later realize I wasn't up for the full one.