Barcelona, just saying the name makes you want to burst in to song! This great Catalan capital has become a top European tourist attraction. The 1992 Olympic Games showed what a flair for organisation the Catalans have, and they have carried this forward to all aspects of tourism. Luckily sporting tourism and particularly running have also been well featured. We offer several races to Barcelona during the year, but it is perhaps the Half Marathon that is set to become the most popular over time. Now here is your chance to join in.

What is included:

•  Met at Barcelona International Airport (or Estacio du Nord for those flying in to Girona/Reus)

•  Transfer and return to/from hotel

•  Minimum of 3* conveniently located hotel

•  Race Entry

•  Reception Meeting/Map of City/Explanation of course

•  Goody Bag, Race Number, and Timing Chip delivered

•  'T-Shirt' and Medal

•  Full Results Service by E-Mail

•  Pasta Meal night before race (optional)

•  After race Get Together and meal (optional)

•  CD-Rom Video souvenir of race (optional)

The Race:

The Barcelona Half Marathon has had to take second place to the new Barcelona Marathon which was reborn in 2005. However it is a great race and looks set to become popular with local runners and foreign guests as it establishes itself. The course is flat and takes in many of the sights of the City. It starts from near Barcelonetta, heading up towards 'Plaza Espana', and then back down the wide boulevard that is 'Diagonal', before the final 3KM along the seafront, with the finish by the 'Arc de Triomf'.

Accommodation:

'Running Crazy' have secured two or three hotels in the race start/finish area. Accommodation is on a bed and breakfast basis, and the hotels are a minimum of a good 3* (many are 4*). All hotels are located close to the Metro lines, which is good for your sightseeing days. We will provide guidance as to travel in Barcelona.

The Weather:

February in Barcelona over the past few years has proved to be a very mild climate.

•  Average Sunshine Hours per day: 8
•  Wet days in a month: 7
•  Average Temperature: 12 to 18 degrees Celsius

Entertainment

First and foremost as the Half Marathon race course is a 'figure of 8', you will be able to locate yourself at a nice pavement café to watch the start of the race, and see the runners pass at the 7 mile mark.   Leisurely and entertaining morning for you!

Barcelona is a top tourist attraction - there is so much to do here. Part of the weekends events will automatically take in sights such as the 'Magic Fountains', the Palace at Montjuic, and 'Las Ramblas'. However there is the Gaudi architecture, the great 'Nou Camp' Football stadium, the unfinished 'Sagrada Familia' church and the non-stop non-finish night life. We know some of the best places and will be pleased to give you a suggested itinerary.

Groups:

Barcelona is a great City to share and is therefore ideal for Clubs or for Training Partners to get together. It may also make travelling more convenient and enjoyable.

There are discounts for larger groups (20+), but even a group of just 10 will qualify for an additional prize for the first or last to finish (you decide).

Prices:

Barcelona is great fun - these hotels are well located and of a good standard. There are ample cheap restaurants, cafes and bars and we will provide you with a rough guide to the city. Prices start from £99 for the weekend. Non-runners are very welcome to join us and will pay a reduced figure.

What to do next:

If you fancy competing in the Barcelona Half Marathon, simply complete the relevant 'Application Form' (Individual or Group) and press 'Send'. Further details will be sent to you by return of E-mail including travel tips, a full price list, and payment arrangements.

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