Philadelphia

Race: Broad Street Run 10 mile race

Runner: TRR Coach Jonathan Gooch

Race Date: 05/04/2025

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Result: 1 hour and 46 seconds

Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/14380683457

3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?

1. Crowd support and race atmosphere: The city of Philadelphia always shows out for the big races and with almost 40,000 runners, there was a ton of support and a contagious sense of excitement for the race.
2. Course: It is a straight shot with a net downhill grade, allowing you to open up your stride and run fast!
3. “After party”: Once you’re done, there is a lot of variety for post-race fueling and you are able to walk right over and cheer on other runners as they finish!

Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you

To get to the start of the Broad Street Run, most take the Broad Street Line from the Sports Complex in South Philly. These trains are packed like sardines for the 30-40 minute long ride. Then, when you finish in the Naval Yard, you need to walk back to the Sport Complex which is at least three quarters of a mile from the finish.

The expo was a letdown. It use to be better 10 years ago, and I always enjoyed looking around and seeing what “freebies” and “samples” they may be giving away. But in recent years, minus a vendor or two, the expo did not feel welcoming and I had a “This is it?” feeling for such a big race.

The start of the race can be hectic with so many runners. Racers are split up in 7+ corrals that go off 5 minutes apart. The back corrals tend to have the most runners, so you are running very tightly for the first half (if not most) of the race.

Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?

Runners can take the Broad Street Line train to the race area free of charge when you show your race bib at the station. Unfortunately, our train had mechanical issues and we were forced to walk/jog over a mile to the start line. Luckily, we had enough time before the race started.

Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?

My plan was to go sub-60 minutes, but the weather had other ideas. Despite needing to adjust my plan midrace due to the heat, I did not let the negativity take over. I was proud to gut it out and mentally push through the last few miles when it got really tough.

Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner

Pro tip: If you park at the Sports Complex, use the porto-potties before getting on the train. They are usually open. Otherwise it’s a 30-40 minute train ride to the start and lines are ridiculously long if you need to use the restroom there.

Lessons you learned that will help you next time around

No matter what a race may throw at you, stay calm and positive. Accept the challenge that appears and adjust accordingly. If you do, it will still make for a great race!

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

The Broad Street Run course is a straight shot for the 10 miles (minus the City Hall go around) and is as wide as 7 lanes. Try to stay on one side of the road and avoid weaving in and out of other runners, as this will only add distance (and time) to your race. Personally, I always line up on the right and only drift by a lane because that is the direction you turn to go around City Hall.

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

The crowd support and hype around this race is top notch. From the Temple Band, to the Philadelphians that show up in droves to support the runners. The Broad Street Run is a 10 mile party!

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

A very easy course. The first half is a downhill grade with a couple “bumps” that mainly go unnoticed, then a flat second half from City Hall to the finish.

Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?

Yes, well put together. Just expect to be surrounded by swarms of other runners for restrooms, as well as before, during, and after the race.

Competition – Is there a strong field?

Runners of all abilities are welcome. You get the fastest of the fast for a 10 miler, alongside many who come to enjoy the fun, party atmosphere of the Broad Street Run.

Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.

You must enter your name in the lottery between February 1st to February 15th of that race year. This is the only time window to register for the Broad Street Run.

On race day, arrive early! The start is at 7:00 am, so aim for a Broad Street Line train (EXPRESS) before 5:30 am. The earlier trains will not be as crowded and you’ll have time for potty stops with shorter lines.

Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?

Standard road race aids stations with water and Gatorade every 2 miles, then each mile from Mile 7 to finish.

Weather and typical race conditions

The weather this year was warm and humid: 67 degrees Fahrenheit with humidity levels at 95% at the start of the race. It started cloudy, but when the sun came out, it became more of a challenge!

Typically, the race temperature is between 45-55 degrees. Weather is hit or miss on this day in Philly. I have run in beautiful sunny conditions (2022) and monsoonal rains (2023).

Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?

Maybe an obvious points, but fueling makes a big difference, even in a 10 mile race. I had two gels, one before the start and another at halfway. They definitely helped get me through the second half strong.

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

It really is! Depending on the runner’s pace, you can view them in the first couple miles, then take the Broad Street Line to watch them finish!

How’s the Swag?

Their tech shirts are always comfy and the medal is decent.

The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?

4.5 out of 5 stars! The race itself is a blast, and the after party in the Naval Yard is also a great time, but getting to the start line has proved to be a challenge at times. This might be more on the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) and not necessarily the race organizers though.

Jonathan Gooch is a coach with Team RunRun based in Philadelphia, PA. He blends science, strategy, and support to help runners train smart, stay consistent, and believe in themselves.