The night before
Read the organiser’s instructions for bib collection, bag drop and where to enter the start area. Put your race number, shoes and layers together. Download the map in case the phone network is busy.
Before the start
Plan for one extra queue and work out a meeting point for anyone joining you afterwards. Check whether the event separates starts by expected finish time. Find the start and finish areas before you need them.
After the finish
Move through the finish area as directed, pick up your belongings and meet your group away from the main flow. If you want to compare pacing later, note where stops or turns changed the rhythm.