Let’s face it: temperatures at the hella hamburg half can be high. That’s why we’d like to share what we’re doing—and what you can do—to ensure you’re well prepared for the conditions on race day.
Pre-race
Start hydrating well in the days leading up to the race. Proper hydration reduces strain on the cardiovascular system.
Get a lightweight head covering, such as a breathable running cap. It protects against direct sunlight and helps prevent heat buildup.
Use sunscreen with a high SPF (30 or higher), even on cloudy days.
Wear lightweight, breathable technical clothing. Loose-fitting apparel helps your body dissipate heat more effectively. Loose shorts and sleeveless tops (singlets) are ideal. UV-protective fabrics can provide additional protection from the sun.
Drink plenty of water on race morning as well. A cool shower before the start can help lower your body temperature slightly.
Avoid alcohol whenever possible in the days before the race. It dehydrates the body and places additional strain on your system.
Make sure you get enough sleep. Proper rest improves recovery and increases your resilience in hot conditions.
Carefully complete the emergency information section on the back of your race bib. This allows medical staff to assist you quickly and effectively in an emergency.
Please ensure that your race bib remains fully visible at all times when using a hydration pack. Otherwise, the functionality of the integrated timing transponder may be impaired.
During the Race
Start conservatively and slightly slower than usual.
Use the very first supply station and do not wait until you feel thirsty.
In hot conditions, we primarily recommend drinking water.
Avoid sweets and solid foods during the race whenever possible.
Keep your headwear damp whenever possible.
Make use of shaded areas if you take walking breaks.
Pay attention to warning signs from your body. Headaches, dizziness, nausea, goosebumps, chills, or confusion are serious symptoms. If you experience any of these, please stop racing immediately.
Your race bib allows you to use Hamburg’s puplic transport system free of charge to reach the finish area. If in doubt, do not hesitate to take advantage of this option.
Keeping You Cool: The supply system at the hella hamburg half
The hella hamburg half is a summer race, and that requires special precautions. To ensure optimal support for all participants, even in high temperatures, an extensive supply system will be in place.
You will encounter a total of seven refreshment stations along the course. These are evenly distributed at kilometers 3.7, 7.2, 9.6, 12.5, 15.2, 17.7, and 19.7 (see course map). Still water will be available at all stations, while the final three stations will additionally offer an isotonic sports drink.
Make use of the pre-race water stations on Glacischaussee (pre-start area) and Reeperbahn (start area).
Please avoid unnecessary etiquette at the refreshment stations. Queuing at the beginning of a station only creates congestion. Instead, move further along the tables and look for an open spot “to refuel”.
All refreshment stations will also feature cooling showers and water containers for cooling your head and body. These are intended solely for cooling purposes and not as drinking water. Please make full use of them and help reduce pressure on the drinking stations by not using beverage cups for cooling.
Additional cooling opportunities will be available in both the pre-start and post-finish areas. In warm conditions, we recommend bringing a cap or other head covering and wetting it regularly.
At the finish line, you can look forward to a wide range of refreshments from the hella product range, fresh ERDINGER Alkoholfrei (non-alcoholic beer), as well as bananas and Franzbrötchen (a local specialty) to help you recover.
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