RunThrough QE Olympic Park London race review (5 and 10k): is it a PB course?
I took part in 3 RunThrough races at the Olympic Park in London this year. If you’re looking for a 5k or 10k race in London, you may have considered this particular event and I hope this post will tell you everything you need to know!
Please note, I did this race in June, July and September 2022. Some of my comments may not apply to future editions of this race as some things might change :)
PS: Use code CHLOEH10! for 10% off any RunThrough events!
RunThrough QE Olympic Park 5k and 10k: key information
Runthrough races at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in East London are organised every month, sometimes even twice a month, with a weekend race (usually on the Saturday) and a mid-week evening race.
What time does it start?
The race starts at 9:30am. Both 5k and 10k runners set off at the same time.
Where are the start and finish lines?
The race starts and finish at the same place, right next to race HQ which is set up in the North Park at Hopkin’s Field. This is next to Waterden Road.
How much does the entry cost?
The standard entry is £26. It includes the medal as well as water on course and at the finish, plus post-race snacks and free race photos.
Where to pick up your race number?
The race numbers are assigned on the day, simply go to the event HQ to pick up your race number and your timing chip (to attach on your shoe) by 9am.
What is the bag drop situation?
There is a bag drop at the race HQ, simply attach the piece of paper (to remove from your race number) to your bag before dropping it off.
RunThrough QE Olympic Park 5k and 10k: the course
What is the course like?
The 5k is a 2 lap course and the 10k is a 4 lap course. Most of the race is done on the tarmac paths inside the parks, you’ll simply run on grass for the first few meters at the start and then to reach the finish line. There are marshals at every turn and once you’ve done a lap, you know your way around the course.
It’s a great one for friends/family coming to cheer you on as they’ll get to see you several times.
Is it flat?
It is not as flat as Battersea Park but it’s still an enjoyable flat course. There’s only one little uphill turn that may slow you down, but the total elevation gain for the 10k (4 laps) is only 50m according to Strava.
You can check the course map below and head over to my Strava activity for more insights on the segments.
Please note, it seems that the course has changed for the 2024 editions.
Can you get a PB at RunThrough QE Olympic Park?
As you can see on the map, there are a few sharp turns however you can definitely aim for a PB! Many runners achieve a 5k or 10k PB at this race including myself. I set a new PB every time I did this course.
If it’s not too windy and if your legs feel good, you have a shot.
RunThrough QE Olympic Park 5k/10k race review
I took part in 3 races at this location and I have a race vlog for each of them. Check them out :)
The positives
It’s a relatively flat course and many runners achieve a PB at this race.
The lap format means that you get to see your friends/family supporting you several times.
The GPS is fairly accurate in this area.
There’s plenty of space to warm up and cool down inside the park.
The Runthrough team and marshals are amazing, very supportive crew!
The negatives
The downside of the lap format is that it can become a little repetitive, especially for the 10k race (4 laps).
The last lap for the 10k is the trickiest as you may be lapping slower runners and will have to pass more people.
The park stays open to the public and it can be a little busy.
The photos are included in the entry price but they are not the best. You’re not guaranteed to have your finish line photo.
PS: Use code CHLOEH10! for 10% off any RunThrough events!
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