Mar 22, 2026
5 Tips for First-Time Cap City Participants
By Julia Wiseman, Running Coach
Race day is almost here, and if you’re gearing up for your first OhioHealth Capital City Half Marathon, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. From the electric start line to the finish at Columbus Commons, this race is truly a celebration of everything that makes running in Columbus special.
To help you feel confident and ready, here are five essential tips to make your first race day a success:
- Plan Your Morning (Starting the Night Before)
Lay out all of your gear the night before so everything is ready to go. On race morning, plan to wake up at least two hours early so you have time for breakfast, water, coffee and electrolytes.
Give yourself plenty of time to get downtown, park, use gear check, and stop at the porta potties. As you walk to the start line, take a deep breath, this is going to be your day.
- Start Conservatively
Don’t go out too fast. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of race day and want to take off quickly.
I tell my athletes, start slower than you think you need to, and treat the first half mile to mile as a warm-up. Ease into your pace and let your race build from there.
- Check Out the Course Map
Take a look at the course map ahead of time so you know what to expect. Identify where the aid stations are, where you can grab water, and where the porta potties will be along the course — each aid station includes water, Powerade and porta-potties.
It’s also a great way to preview what you’ll see. This really is one of the best tours of Columbus on two feet. CLICK HERE for a course preview!
- Nothing New on Race Day
Make sure you’ve already tested what you plan to wear and how you plan to fuel. Race day isn’t the time to try something new. You want everything to feel familiar and comfortable with no surprises.
- Plan to Celebrate
You’ve just taken on an incredible challenge, and that’s something worth celebrating. Invite your friends and family to meet you at the finish line at Columbus Commons.
Enjoy the food and drinks available to participants and stick around to dance to the band—you’ve earned it.
Remarkable Experience Tip: Pack an extra shirt or sweatshirt in your Gear Check bag so you can stay warm at the post-race party!
We can’t wait to CELEBRATE YOU on Saturday, April 25!
Follow me on Instagram for more training content: @Julia.On.The.Run