Ready for the Behobia Race in San Sebastian? At LOCK & enjoy! we encourage you to sign up for this famous sporting event that already has more than 100 years of history.
It is an unforgettable experience, so don’t let the weight of your belongings be an obstacle for this race. With our Lockers in San Sebastian you can store your things safely while you enjoy it. Your only concern should be to cross the finish line, not to carry your belongings.
What is it?
The Behobia Race in San Sebastian is one of the most popular races in Spain and the first in the Basque Country; it is held on November 10 and consists of approximately 20 kilometers of walking.
It owes its name to its starting point, since the start starts in Behobia (a neighborhood of Irun) up to the capital of San Sebastian. It has a great reputation among runners due to its high degree of demand, since it includes several slopes and, in addition, there is an impressive festive atmosphere thanks to the support of the local public.
In previous editions more than 30,000 people have participated, making it an activity with a great economic, social and touristic impact for San Sebastian. We would like to point out that the route offers wonderful views of the landscape of Guipúzcoa.
What is its origin?
The first race dates back to 1919 and was organized by the Sociedad Ciclista de San Sebastián. However, it was interrupted for several years due to all kinds of circumstances such as, for example, the Civil War that lasted from 1936 to 1939.
In 1964, the tradition was resumed and has been held uninterruptedly. Although it was organized mainly as a cycling event, it has been progressively transformed into an athletic competition for runners of all levels.
Tour
As we have indicated above, it is a very demanding race. However, this characteristic is not an impediment for anyone over 16 years of age to participate.
Let’s make a short description of the route step by step.
Part One
- The starting straight (flat part) is next to the Bidasoa River; in the last part begins the ascent to Irún. In this stretch the climb to the city center has little slope and, also, the streets are very lively public so that you feel wrapped up at all times.
- As you move away from the city center and reach Ventas de Irún, the slope becomes steeper, more specifically it is an area of small slides.
- Once you pass the Alto de Arretxe at kilometer 34, the descent is lighter, leaving behind the city of Irún. We recommend that you take it easy at this point, since the descent is a good time to recover your energy.
- Then begins the ascent to the Alto de Gaintxurizketa. It is a steep, but short slope that leads you to a two-lane road. In this part of the tour there is also a great atmosphere, especially in the last meters.
- Once you run this climb, one of the longest parts of the race begins, but downhill to the town of Errentería, a good moment to regain strength while enjoying the views!
- The neighborhoods of Errentería are the flattest part of the route. Once you go through the center of the town there is a new climb called Capuchinos. It is a short slope, but very hard. Once finished, the descent is to Pasaia, being this section one of the most beautiful for its views of the mountain and the port.
Part Two
- In the last part of the route you must go up and down Buenavista, which is known as the entrance to San Sebastian. In the neighborhood of Herrera you have to climb up to the Alto de Miracruz (1 kilometer).
- The descent is through Ategorrieta Avenue to the Gros neighborhood, and in the distance you can already see the center of Donostia!
- And, to finish, a small climb along the Avenida de Navarra before reaching the straight line that goes to the beach of Zurriola. If you get here, it is the most exciting moment because at the end is the finish line.
Tips
The Behobia Race in San Sebastian requires preparation in terms of physical and mental training. In LOCK & enjoy! we advise you to follow a series of guidelines that we explain in this article to make your participation a success.
First, organize a series of workouts that include hills to strengthen your legs and improve your endurance. On the other hand, go for 15-20 kilometer rides to test your body’s readiness for the distance of this event.
Nutrition and hydration in the weeks prior to the race is essential. Therefore, the days before the race, prepare a diet rich in carbohydrates (bread, pasta, etc.). Also, the day of the race have a light breakfast, but with energy foods. For example, whole-grain toast with a cup of coffee or a piece of fruit.
And, most importantly, hydration during the competition is very important. In many sections there are refreshment points. Another option is to eat energy bars if you think they will help you to have more strength. On the other hand, equip yourself properly with sportswear and breathable clothing, as well as good footwear that fits your stride.
Once you cross the finish line, it’s time to relax and enjoy the city without worries. Leave your belongings in our Lockers in the centrally located Plaza Sarriegi and y explore San Sebastian unencumbered.
