How to be the Ultimate Spectator: Six Essential Tips

Crowd support is crucial in creating an exhilarating atmosphere that boosts and inspires participants, many of whom are running to raise funds for charity.

To ensure everyone – supporters, participants and volunteers – has an unforgettable experience, spectators should follow a few simple guidelines.

1. Bring the energy!

Make signs, posters or banners to offer words and pictures of encouragement to your participant – and to other participants! They will feed off your energy, so get creative and be colourful.

2. Know the event details

Familiarise yourself with the event route, taking into consideration the parts that will be especially busy and make sure you know where important infrastructure – such as route Crossing Points and Meet and Greet Areas – is located. Be aware of road closures and plan your journey to and from the event in advance. Download the event app to track your participant.

3. Respect fellow spectators

Be mindful of other people who are also there to support. Respect their space and be considerate when moving through crowds to get a better view. Don’t block the view of other spectators. If you’re carrying signage or making loud noises using bells or whistles, be aware of how this might impact other spectators. Leave your viewing point once your participant has passed, to create space for other spectators who are waiting.

4. Respect the participants

The safety of both participants and supporters is paramount. Do not enter the event route or block the progress of participants in any way. Do not enter the route to take a photograph with your participant or to run alongside them. Do not block the route with anything you might have with you, such as a bag, pushchair or bicycle. Use the designated Crossing Points to safely navigate the route and always listen to stewards’ instructions.

Focus on offering support and encouragement to participants and don’t distract them unnecessarily. If participants are wearing their name on their bib, give them a shoutout – it might be the boost they needed!

5. Don’t litter

Do not leave litter on the route or on the sidelines where you are spectating. Use the bins and recycling bins provided. If you can’t find a bin, please take your litter with you! We love seeing all your signs, banners and posters, but please take these home with you.

6. Be patient and flexible – it will be busy

Allow plenty of time to reach your spectating spots on the route and be patient – there will be lots of other people trying to get to the same places. Public transport will be busy, and you might have to queue.

If an area is looking especially busy, consider amending your plans to find an alternative spot to cheer on your participant. Remember to use the event app to track their progress.