Is it worth running the Buenos Aires half marathon? – 09/04/2023 – On the Run

Fact or fake? In theory, the package that the Buenos Aires Half Marathon offers to the runner is seductive: favorable exchange rate, flat route, mild temperature. But what is it like, in practice, to run the race in the Argentine capital? Is it really worth it? After answering this question to dozens of friends, I decided to write this post to share a little of my experience in the race I ran on the last Sunday of August (27). I will address the points that are directly related to the test, but I will not be restricted to them.

Cost

Since it adopted a new exchange rate policy for the use of international credit cards, Buenos Aires has established itself as the best value for money on the continent. What was once cheap has also become very practical. I spent five days in the city and, during that period, I did not hold an Argentinean peso banknote in my hands. I settled everything with an international debit card, which uses a more favorable conversion rate than the official one, and very similar to the one you can get with the money changers scattered around the Buenos Aires capital. In my experience, when you use a Visa brand, the conversion is instantaneous. When the card is Mastercard, the conversion is at the official exchange rate, but then the difference is credited back to your account. I suggest you research before going — also because the rules change with some frequency. For now, believe the hype—the savings are real.

Kit delivery and expo

The location for delivering kits changes from time to time, so it’s not worth talking about it at length. In 2023, it was halfway between Ezeiza airport and the city center — that is, far from the sights and roads that were part of the race route. In summary, a little out of the way, but nothing that detracted from the experience. There were queues, but they moved quickly. No stress here.

The expo was small, but it had its charm. In addition to the traditional clothing and accessories stores, there was a tattoo parlor and an Adidas store, sponsor of the race.

Circuit

It’s not easy to be compared to Rio de Janeiro when it comes to beauty. But the race in Buenos Aires competes on equal terms with the race in the Marvelous City. The route is fast, flat, occupies wide avenues and passes through the obligatory sights. The Brazilian tourist will miss crossing the streets of Boca, seeing the Bombonera and appreciating the architectural history of San Telmo. Apart from that, the rest of the Buenos Aires icons all parade to the corridors during the test. Casa Rosada, Floralis Genérica, the Obelisk, Malba, Palermo Park, Recoleta and Retiro streets, everything is on the route of the race.

test organization

Here, I think Buenos Aires could have done a little better. Shortly after the start there is an inexplicable narrowing of the track. And then the race that just started just stops. There were long seconds walking until the flow normalized. Those who run to São Silvestre will immediately remember the moment of entering the tunnel that gives access to Doutor Arnaldo.

The supply of water and toilets could also be better. Hydration stations are not properly signposted. They are huge, but far from each other. After the start, the first water distribution point only happened after the fourth kilometer. And they are plastic bottles, not cups. For those who are programmed to take carbohydrate gel, the solution is to carry a bottle of water in your hands.

Lastly, the dispersion is also a bit messy and slow. It is understandable that there is some turmoil, especially when we are talking about a race with more than 20 thousand participants. But I missed that announcer yelling “no stopeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee-pee-to-athletes who cross the finish line. It would have helped a lot there.

Climate

Another point that is unpredictable. This year the winter was milder. The start took place with 8 degrees, and the temperature must not have exceeded 12 degrees during the race. Add to that a cloudless blue sky and a sun that illuminates more than it warms. It couldn’t be better.

And you, did you have any questions? Are you curious? Have you already raced in Buenos Aires and would like to share your experience? Write in the comments or send a message to [email protected]. If you prefer, you can send me a direct message on Instagram at @rodrigofloresnacorrida.

The journalist traveled at the invitation of Visit Buenos Aires, SLS Puerto Madero and Flybondi.

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