I took part in the Madrid Rock 'b' Roll 10k race in April 2023 for the first time. Here’s everything you need to know about this event and my honest review of the Madrid’s Zurich Rock’n’Roll Running Series.

Madrid Zurich Rock’n’Roll Running Series: key information

The Zurich Rock‘n’Roll Running Series took place for the 45th time on April 23rd 2023. The main event is the Madrid Marathon, but there is also a half marathon and a 10k taking place.

This running weekend attracts thousands of runners from Spain and beyond, with over 110 countries represented. This year we were 34,000 runners and about a third of us were foreigners.

I took part in the 2023 edition and I am talking about my experience, please keep in mind that some things may change for future editions of this race!

How much does the entry cost?

The earlier you register, the cheaper it is. The 10k entry fee started at 22€ but I paid 35€ when I registered in February.

The half marathon entry fee started at 32€ and the marathon at 60€.

How to collect your race number?

Race numbers need to be collected before the race at the Expo. This year it was located at IFEMA, which is really close to the Feria de Madrid tube station. It’s also near the airport, so I went there just after I landed to save time.

The Expo is open the Friday and Saturday all day. It’s really well organised and there is no wait at all.

Don’t forget your passport!

What’s in the runner’s goodie bags?

Once you’ve collected your race number, you pick up your race Tshirt (Adidas was a sponsor this year and the Tshirt was really good quality) then your goodie bag.

The goodie bag contained 2 cans of Coca Cola, a Foodspring bar, a pack of breadsticks and a running belt to hold your phone (whilst the idea is good, the waistband is not adjustable and if it doesn’t fit, you can’t use it).

The half marathon and marathon runners were also given gels at the expo.

Madrid Rock'n'Roll 10k race day

What time does the Madrid Rock'n'Roll 10k race start?

The 10k starts at 8:00am, whilst both the half marathon and marathon start from 9:00am onwards. The last wave starts at 9:45am.

Where does Madrid Rock'n'Roll 10k start and finish?

In 2023 the race started on Plaza de Gregorio Marañón (next to the tube station with the same name). The finish line was on Paseo de Recoletos not far from Parque Del Retiro.

Is there a cut-off time?

Yes, the cut-off time for the 10k is 1h30 so you need to finish by 9:30am. The cut off time for the half marathon is 3 hours and 6 hours for the marathon.

There is a race closing car and if it catches you, then you need to stop and hop on it to get to the finish.

Are there pacers?

Yes there are a few pacers, from 40 to 60 minutes for the 10k (every 5 minutes).

Where are the water stations?

For the 10k, water bottles were given away just after the 4km mark on the course and at the finish line.

What do you get at the finish line?

You get your well-deserved medal, as well as a finisher’s bag with water, Powerade, fruit juice and a couple snacks (a cereal bar and some sort of soft spongy cake).

What is the course like?

It’s not the flattest 10k for sure! I had seen the course profile on the website and I knew what to expect to some degree, but it wasn’t extremely detailed and there were more uphill sections ( not steep, but long and steady inclines that never seem to end) than I anticipated.

You run uphill (from 760m to 800m) for the first 2km and although it’s a progressive incline, it can make for a challenging first half especially if you set off too fast.

That being said, the downhill sections are enjoyable and you can make up some time.

You can check the map and elevation on Strava here.

Watch the race footage in this video:

Can you get a PB at the Madrid Rock'n'Roll 10k?

Although it’s not a fast and flat course, you can still attempt and achieve a new personal best, if you race “smart” and have done some hill training to prepare for the undulating course.

I managed to scrape a new 10k PB by 5 seconds, which I was very happy with.

Madrid Rock'n'Roll 10k race review

These are my honest thoughts about the 2023 edition. Please note that things might change for future editions.

The positives

• Extremely well organised event, from the expo to the finish line. Everything was clearly communicated via email and the event team on the day did a great job.

• I especially enjoyed the “calm” start which was much less stressful than at some other Spanish races. I didn’t need to go to my starting pen super early and wasn’t pushed around by runners who wanted to start in front of me. It was overall very relaxed.

• The entertainment was great, with bands playing live rock music (of course!)

• The event team and volunteers were amazing, super encouraging, clapping and congratulating us as they were handing the medals.

• It was a lovely course (despite the elevation!) with a few Madrid sights to spot such as the Cibeles fountain.

• Although the 10k runners started early, the crowds were already there! There were also people cheering us on from their balconies.

Any negatives?

• The only downside is the price of the race photo pack: 39.99€ is expensive!

If you find these race reviews helpful, a coffee would be very much appreciated :) And if you have any questions, feel free to get in touch via the contact form.

Would I recommend signing up for the next Madrid Rock'n'Roll 10k race?

Yes, it’s a great opportunity to spend a sunny weekend in Madrid and take part in an awesome event! If you register early, it’s really good value for money and definitely worth it.

I had a great experience and I want to do it again. I’ll probably choose the half marathon distance next time.

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