It is incredibly fast and atmospheric which brings back runners, elite and joggers alike, year-on-year.
The Westminster Mile is one of the few races for which I’ll break my “only once” rule because it’s fast, flat and fun.
Starting and finishing outside Buckingham Palace, the Westminster Mile boasts a backdrop that very few races on the planet can compete with. The road-closed route circles around the perimeter of St.James’s Park; beginning on the Mall, turning into Horse Guards Road, Birdcage Walk and ending in front of cheering crowds outside the palace. It is incredibly fast and atmospheric which brings back runners, elite and joggers alike, year-on-year.
Around 4,000 runners take part in the 30+ races which are spread across the day. In the morning highly competitive adult waves set the pace before family waves where children of all ages are welcome to take part. These races are supported with live music and crowds that increase in number during the event. Into the afternoon there are waves for parkrunners, Olympians and finally the British Championship where the elite runners get within seconds of four minutes.
Pre-Race was excellent, lots of toilets, well-organised bag drop, a festival (including excellent children’s zone with games and free face painting) and lots of brilliant spectator opportunities. Being in Green Park it was also a great location to get to with a number of tube stations on the doorstep.
The bling was super, especially given the £8 entry, a heavy and beautifully designed medal and some high-quality food and drink bits.
Overall? Whether spectating or competing the Westminster Mile is a chance to put your pace to the test – a well organised event that will keep you coming back for more.
Personal running stats
Time – 6:24
PBs – my first sub-6:30 mile, 1/2 mile, 1km, 400m
Report – Started a little fast and had to hold on but pleased to come in under target.
Be First to Comment